Different faiths build on common concerns

Ohioans break down religious stereotypes through education and service projects.

from the May 3, 2007 edition

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In a 2002 collaboration with a local community initiative called Erase the Hate, the council offered workshops on how to achieve peace, from the standpoint of various religions. More recently, it has sponsored youth poetry and video competitions for Erase the Hate.

Currently, says Srini Srini­vasan, a council vice chair, a committee is planning a course for next fall on religion and critical issues (from politics to science to cultural concerns). "We're going through an intense reading phase (including the recent Einstein biography, for example) to help us define topics for the course," he says.

Raised a Hindu in India, Mr. Srinivasan is not practicing a faith right now, but values the exploration and camaraderie the group fosters. "The differences melt away when you know people as individuals and deal with them on a day-to-day basis," he adds.

Unexpected similarities

Many members appreciate the unexpected commonalities they encounter. "I like the informal gatherings most, the potluck dinners, because I enjoy talking about religion and culture," Kadri says. "I've learned that Muslim, Hindu, and Jewish cultures are very similar in some ways."

Despite the value members place on its activities, the council faces a variety of challenges as it tries to expand community outreach. Some religious groups reject participation altogether.

"They have said – almost this bluntly – 'I dare not be part of a multifaith group because it would indicate I condone something I know is going to lead you to hell,' " Judy says.

The council requires that all who join be respectful of other traditions and that they not proselytize or promote a political agenda. A "members covenant" states: "I vow to intentionally grow in the compassion and understanding that will encourage me to live peaceably with all my neighbors."

Yet some members would like to see it get involved in politics. "Our mission is not to solve the Middle East strife or say who's right and who's wrong," Judy insists. "We are in Toledo, we are neighbors; it's how we can understand one another."

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