QUOTES:
"We need a new global spirituality that affirms the unity of all being, that affirms the interconnectedness of all, and affirms a new bottom line of love, caring, and generosity." ~ Rabbi Michael Learner, Jewish author, in a panel discussion entitled "The Battle for God," at the 2004 Parliament of World Religions.
"All religions share a common root, which is limitless compassion. They emphasize human improvement, love, respect for others, and compassion for the suffering of others. In so far as love is essential in every religion, we could say that love is essential in every religion, we could say that love is a universal religion. But the various techniques and methods for developing love differ widely between the traditions. I don't think there could ever be just one single philosophy or one single religion. Since there are so many different types of people, with a range of tendencies and inclinations, it is quite fitting that there are differences between religions. And the fact that there are so many different descriptions of the religious path shows how rich religion is." ~ H.H. The XIVth Dalai Lama
ARTICLES:
The Origin of Interfaith as a Contemporary Movement
Swami Vivekananda Address to the Parliament of World Religions 1893
Bahai's Participate in Interfaith Parliament
Reflections on Interfaith Sacred Space
INTERFAITH LINKS
See our links page for interfaith resources, websites and communities
INTERFAITH WISDOM about creating interfaith sacred space:
SACRED SPACE
Space becomes sacred...
When it honours those who came before us and provides safe harbor today,
When it reminds us of larger realities and leads us to inner truths,
When it cradles the musician's prayer and the poet's melody, lifting our hearts,
When being there proved healing, nourishing and satisfying.
Sacred space for all peoples and faiths is secured...
When the door is open to all, in mutual respect and good will,
When every sacred symbol and spiritual story is welcomed,
When the truths that nurture us do not hinge on making others wrong,
When - bridging culture, race, and faith to be human with each other
~ we creatively appreciate life's blessings and
~ work collaboratively to improve life for all.
(http://www.interfaith-presidio.org)
SANCTUARY
There is a place,
Indeed, there must be such a place...
Holy and set apart.
Where spirit calls to spirit
Here together we pray,
Where, united in spirit, we speak
Of Wisdom,
Of Love,
Of Peace and Justice...
Of all that makes us One.
~ (W. Bruce Johnston, Associate professor of philosophy and religious studies, The College of Saint Rose.)
INTERFAITH: "It is an open door through which anyone may pass and be understood:
to share his faith with anyone else without fear of ridicule or censure."
~ Statement of Interfaith, Longboat Island Chapel
AFFIRMATION:
"Love is the doctrine of this church;
The quest of truth its sacrament;
And service is its prayer.
To dwell together in peace,
To seek kowledge in freedom,
To serve mankind in fellowship,
To the end that all souls shall grow
Into harmony with the Divine --
Thus do we covenant with each other,
And with God."
~ The Longboat Island Chapel Affirmation
MORE
Sometimes, when discussing the profound importance of interfaith, language fails to enlighten. At those times, heart communication is what may bridge understanding of the mysteries of the Oneness of humanity, the Oneness of God, and the Oneness of Religion. Poetry is offered here as that communication:
KEEPING WATCH
In the morning
When I began to wake,
It happened again
That feeling
That You, Beloved,
Had stood over me all night
Keeping watch,
That feeling
That as soon as I began to stir
You put Your lips on my forehead
And lit a Holy Lamp
Inside my Heart.
By Hafiz (Sufi Master)