Monday 4/27/15: Important Interfaith Gathering at Temple Beth El Honoring the Legacy of Vatican II. Under the title of Repentance, Revitalization of Faith, Renewal of Covenant!
The dialogue started with the statements and prayers of Rabbi Mark Miller, along with Archbishop Vigneron and some other religious leaders. Then the participants started an interfaith conversation in the form of workshops and shared the summery of their discussions with the entire audience at the end.
Imam Elahi on behalf of the attending imams and his workshop addressed the gathering.
Imam Elahi admired this courageous interfaith initiative and welcomed the clergy communities from other religious traditions to hold similar meetings at the mosques and Islamic centers as well.
Reflecting on the moral crises and confusion, he emphasized on the principles of justice, mercy and truth to be applied on each and every domestic or international circumstance. Imam stated that standing for justice is a sign of purity and sincerity of heart and it must be practiced even if it hurts you or helps your enemies. Imam concluded that a wrong interpretation of religion can turn religion to the most dangerous weapon of mass destruction and concluded that the Muslim community suffers from both Islamophobia locally, and the violence and deadly attacks of criminals such as isis, and similar barbarian groups internationally. This requires more education and awareness; this is our challenge and obligation.
