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MANHATTAN, Kan. — The UFM Community Learning Center's Lou Douglas Lecture Series hosted an Interfaith community peacebuilding discussion Tuesday evening in the K-State Student Union, Forum Hall. The lecture was different this year than in the past, featuring a panel of religious leaders/speakers from around Manhattan who discussed the importance of fostering peace and understanding among different faith communities.
The panelists included Melissa Atchison, Isabel Call, Miriam Edelman, Bruce Grover, Reverend Kristen J. Sexton, Elder Carl B. Taylor, Glade Topham, and Caela Simmons Wood. Carol Barta served as the moderator for the event.
Discussions centered on the role of curiosity, empathy, and dialogue in bridging gaps between various religious traditions. Panelists shared personal experiences and insights on how interfaith collaboration can lead to a more harmonious community. They emphasized the need for mutual respect and understanding as essential components of peacebuilding efforts.
Reverend Kristen J. Sexton highlighted the importance of these conversations by comparing them to a reality show scenario.
"We act as though we can just vote someone off the island and not have to deal with the repercussions... We do have to find ways in which to work together so that we can be a thriving community."
Melissa Atchison shared her experiences collaborating with other faith leaders in joint worship services, emphasizing the value of building relationships through shared experiences. "We've been practicing our curiosity...and how can we develop relationships? Which is what it's all about."
Miriam Edelman reflected on her lifelong interfaith friendships and their impact on her understanding of community. She noted, "In the Talmud...it’s suggested that the greatest principle of all of Judaism is B'Tselem Elohim, which means that we are all made...in the image of God."
The panelists also explored how personal experiences shape interfaith understanding. Elder Carl B. Taylor shared a poignant moment from his past: "I moved to a place of, sort of correct and convince...it wasn’t a conversation of humility and curiosity."
The event underscored the significance of public discourse in addressing complex social issues and highlighted the ongoing efforts of local faith leaders to promote unity and peace in the community. The panelists' stories and insights demonstrated that while differences exist, common values such as love, respect, and curiosity can serve as powerful unifying forces.
For more information about how this event came together, listen to the moderator of the event, Carol Barta share her experience and preparation for this Lou Douglas Lecture on The Little Apple Locals Podcast hosted by Dawson Wagner of 91.9 and Jake Huber of UFM.
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