Monthly Interfaith Services Offer Peace and Understanding of Different Spiritual Traditions

"The Interfaith Prayer and Reflection Service provides a special occasion to pray for peace, remember our loved ones, reflect upon the interconnectedness of all beings, and to uplift our hearts and minds. Its purpose is to bring together people from different faith communities in the spirit of harmony, peace, and growing appreciation, and to nurture confidence in the universal power of love and unity that transcends all earthly limitations." (description of monthly Interfaith Prayer and Reflection service as listed on the Two Rivers Interfaith Ministry website.)

On the 11th day of each month in Eugene, Oregon you will find members from a wide variety of faith traditions at the First Christian Church, honoring and learning from each other's religious traditions. These Interfaith Prayer and Reflection Services have been happening since October 11, 2001, a month after the World Trade Center attacks. Members from the local Sikh, Bahai, and Muslim communities came together to offer a format that would dispel fear and encourage understanding of each other's beliefs. The First Christian Church courageously offered their place of worship for this wonderful expression of love and devotion to peace on earth.

I've been honored to participate in these services for a number of years. As both a follower of the Sufi path, and also a follower of the Goddess tradition, I have represented both. My late partner, Sheikh Ishaq, and I also have been musicians for various Interfaith events over the years, as well as he being a presenter for the Sufi tradition on many occasions.

The Interfaith Community here has grown from having the once a month services to including lunchtime forums, monthly discussions, potlucks and more. All faith traditions are welcome, and each month I'm amazed at how many we manage to squeeze into that one hour time space. Each month's service is based on a theme chosen by members of the coordinating committee.

Interfaith Services are happening all over the country. They represent a new tolerance and understanding between people of different religions. When I first approached the organizers about presenting the Goddess tradition, there was some trepidation from a few people, who didn't understand our path. Dialogue continued, however, and we ended up having a lunchtime question and answer forum to educate people about an often misunderstood tradition. The Goddess/Wiccan/Pagan tradition is now a frequent spiritual path represented at these services.

The Interfaith dialogue has expanded to include a weekly column in our local newspaper, the Register Guard. This column, entitled "Heart to Heart" features a different faith tradition each week, written by people who wish to share their personal experiences. Over 30 different faith traditions have presented at the various Interfaith events over these past five years, with attendance at the monthly services sometimes swelling to over 500 attendees.

Each service is filled with prayers, readings, reflection, and beautiful music. Afterwards, attendees gather for fellowship with hot chai tea provided by the local Sikh community, and numerous cookies and treats provided by those who attend and generously donate these items. For many people here in Eugene, the monthly Interfaith Prayer and Reflection Service is their main place of worship, a place where they feel that they and their spiritual tradition is honored and respected