Interfaith Circle
This weekly email newsletter is promoted by the Dean of Students
Office at VT, in support of the new Interfaith Initiative.
Week 9 | Nov 11, 2019
Why interfaith?
Here we share articles about the importance of investing in interfaith dialogue and cooperation in contemporary society.
Watch this inspiring video from the Cornwall Interfaith Partnership (Ontario, Canada). The partnership brings together a diverse group of spiritual people to harness their collective genius to address the big issues of our day. Participants from a gamut of faiths and backgrounds share their experience and the group’s achievements.
Learning about diverse traditions
Appreciative knowledge is an important part in the interfaith triangle. In this section, we share information to expand our religious, spiritual, and secular literacy, featuring different traditions/worldviews every week.
Anekantavada – Moving Beyond Exclusivist Religious Claims
Ahimsa (non-violence) and Anekantavada (acceptance of multiple, diverse, even contradictory viewpoints) are fundamental philosophical teachings of Jainism, a small, ancient religion originating in India. This article from the Interfaith Observer talks about the importance of these teaching to peacemaking efforts.
Diverse ways to live and to find meaning in life
Here, we share stories about how people find different ways to find meaning and purpose in their lives.
The Prayer Life of Martin Luther King, Jr. | Podcast
For religious studies professor Lewis Baldwin, prayer was the force behind so much of King’s power, connecting him with his ancestors and giving him strength in the face of tremendous pressure. It was also a source of deep inspiration for his followers. Listen to this podcast from Interfaith Voices.
Interfaith Resources
Here we share resources and content in support of interfaith activities and observances.
Communicating across Difference: Benefits of Interfaith Friendships in Higher Education
The friendships made during college can be life changing. As students make friends with different worldviews, it can bolster their sense of belonging and introduce them to diverse perspectives. Read this article from the Association of American Colleges & Universities about IDEALS/IFYC research data (Image by IFYC).
Engage with the Interfaith Initiative at VT
Participate in interfaith dialogue and cooperation at Virginia Tech. All are welcome, as the interfaith circle includes all religious, non-religious, spiritual, and secular identities. Come to the THIS WEEK events!
Interfaith Evening Dialogues | For Students
Students who asked for interfaith dialogue sessions in the evenings and closer to academic buildings, we hear you! Come participate in dialogues with people from diverse identities. Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:00 pm – Nov 13, Dec 11 – Location: 3310 Torgersen Hall.
Interfaith Dialogues – Brown bag lunch
Participate in a dialogue with people from diverse worldviews. Discussions about world issues through an interfaith lens. Next dates: November 14, December 12. Time: 12 to 1 pm. Location: New Hall West 142.