Increasingly, educators are realizing that, in our connected and diverse societies, it is important to teach students religious literacy—knowledge of, and ability to understand, different religions. But, teaching about religion in public school can often prove tricky, and teachers must find ways to teach their students about religion without accidentally promoting a religion or religions. In Chicago, public school educators are taking part in workshops on teaching religious literacy, which ...
Importance of Faith Communities during Times of Crisis
A new report from the Woolf Institute, titled "Trust in Crisis," finds that local communities—especially faith communities and other minority groups—are extremely important in times of crisis. As the report states: "...it is local communities and locally-based volunteer organisations which confront direct and immediate needs in times of crisis. They are more in tune with realities on the ground and are able to plug the gaps left by austerity." Read the full report at the link ...
Revival of Religion in Higher Education
All around the country, colleges and universities are taking steps to promote interfaith dialogue and awareness among their students and to teach religious literacy, leading to a "revival of religion" in higher education. Not only does this knowledge enrich students' college experiences and honor the values and beliefs of students, religious literacy and the ability to work with people despite differences are crucial skills for success in a diverse global world. READ MORE (Huffington Post) ...
Interfaith on the Menu
The Urgency of Interfaith Cooperation
Rabbi Arthur Schneier (pictured above) founded the New York-based Appeal of Conscience Foundation in 1965 to promote peace, reconciliation, and interreligious cooperation. Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Rabbi Schneier and his foundation have brought together religious leaders from around the world to take a stand against terrorism and use their influence to stop violence and promote tolerance and understanding. In this interview for Vatican Radio, Rabbi Schneier discusses the urgency and need ...
