A Call for Action

Many of us have been asking how we can make a positive contribution in this current atmosphere of tension and hostility. Locally, one of the most important questions we can ask is, "Are there people from religious minorities who are feeling marginalised and suffering from discrimination?"

IARF members successfully arrange activities which bring together people from different faith traditions, and on the whole, they readily come to such events. However it is not immediately obvious how one can approach people who are extremely isolated and appear unwilling to build up relations with those of other faiths. In our experience, there are usually people on the fringes of these groups who will be prepared to respond positively to an invitation to join in an interfaith activity, especially if it is seen as being worthwhile and, ideally, enjoyable!

I have recently come back from Hamburg, Germany where I attended the young leadership meeting of the International Council of Christians and Jews. I also spent some time visiting the different faith communities in Hamburg and listening to the opinions of the religious leaders and young people. Being made aware of the issues that they were facing, provided me with more insights into the perspective of each community. For example, the Rabbi talked about the issues he is currently grappling with including the influx of Russian Jews and the ways in which the Jewish community is assisting them. Some Muslim young adults from Hamburg are at the moment experiencing a great deal of prejudice. They feel that it is imperative to find ways to create a climate of greater respect and understanding. A number of the young adults from these faith communities have indicated that they would like to work together on a more regular basis.

I am all too aware that in some countries interfaith work is more difficult than in others. We certainly do not wish for lives to be endangered through this kind of activity. However, it is clear that many of our members and friends wish to play a larger part in helping to build up a more harmonious society. Those who are able, should be encouraged and supported in this work. Whether it is on a small or large scale, with the right approach, your activity can be rewarding and achieve a really positive outcome. If you would like to discuss an idea for an activity or its follow-up, please contact the appropriate IARF Regional office or Chapter; in their absence you are welcome to approach the IARF Secretariat. See the back of the newsletter for details.

I would very much appreciate receiving stories of the positive (or negative) experiences that people have had when attempting an interfaith activity, particularly where it may relate to young adults. We can learn a lot from each other. Please send any comments to ramola@iarf.net.

Ramola Sundram (IARF Youth Programme Coordinator)