News and Events: "FAITH CLUB"

Evaluation and Recap

For four weeks this spring, dozens of people gathered to listen and talk and learn from Muslim, Christian, and Jewish perspectives.  They came away with new appreciation for each other's faith traditions and new understandings of each other.  For four weeks, a Faith Club took place in which honesty and respect took center stage. 

Interfaith Community Services sponsored this Faith Club, hosted by St. Philip's in the Hills Episcopal Church.  It was based on the best-selling book, The Faith Club, written by Ranya Idliby (Muslim), Suzanne Oliver (Christian), and Priscilla Warner (Jewish).  Over the four-week period, 70 people participated in small group conversations; a panel discussion with a rabbi, an imam, and a minister; and sharing in diverse prayers.  Participants were very positive about the experience.  For some, stereotypes about other religions were challenged.  Others learned of the common principles that underlie different religions.  Yet another marveled at the ability to discuss religion when people “think with our hearts.”

ICS brings together people of various faith traditions, or no faith tradition, to help senior citizens, disabled people, and people in financial crisis achieve stable and independent lives.  The Faith Club was an extension of that interfaith cooperation, helping people share and learn from our diverse perspectives.  And it was a much-appreciated gift to the community.

Thank you to all who participated!