In Memoriam: The Rev. John Clifford
The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) is deeply saddened to share the news of the death of the Rev. John Clifford.
John was a dedicated internationalist, a passionate advocate for peace, and a universally respected leader within the Unitarian movement. His commitment to interfaith understanding and his service to our organization spanned decades, leaving a lasting mark on colleagues across Europe and the United Kingdom.
A Devoted IARF Activist
John’s connection to the IARF was profound and hands-on. Born in the USA, he eventually settled in the UK, but his vision was always global. From 1983 to 1986, John served directly on the IARF staff at our former headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany.
Long-time IARF colleagues Lucie Meijer (Dutch Chapter) and Dorothee Gehrmann (German Chapter) shared this reflection on his time with the secretariat:
John Clifford, a Unitarian minister from the UK, joined the IARF Staff at headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany, from 1983–1986. He moved with his family to live in Offenbach and cycled each day to the IARF office in Frankfurt, where he took care of publicity.
He was involved in organizing the IARF Peace Vigil in Utrecht, Netherlands, in 1985, during the IARF Peace Conference Europe. He edited the Conference Declaration on ‘Peace – our commitment to the future’. It could be said that he was a faithful and devoted IARF activist and competent helper at IARF conferences and congresses, before as well as after his years on the staff of the IARF international secretariat.
A Life of Ministry and Service
Born in the United States, John discovered Universalism while in secondary school. After training for the ministry, he moved to Britain, where he was naturalised in Scotland in 1975. He served as the minister of Glasgow Unitarian Church from 1975 to 1983, immediately prior to his service with the IARF in Frankfurt.
Upon returning to the UK, his dedication to the movement continued to grow. He served the British General Assembly (GA) of Unitarian and Free Christian Churches with distinction, holding the roles of Deputy General Secretary, Executive Committee member, President of the Ministerial Fellowship, and President of the General Assembly.
His commitment to internationalism remained a core part of his work; from 2005 to 2009, he served as the Executive Secretary of the International Council of Unitarians and Universalists (ICUU).
In his later years, he remained a beloved figure in Scotland as an associated minister at St Mark’s Unitarian Church in Edinburgh. Friends there remember him for his “thoughtful presence, gentle friendship, and deep care for the life of the congregation.”
Philosophy, Personality, and “The Web of Life”
John was a man of deep intellect and broad interests. He described his personal philosophy as centered in “empirical process philosophy,” blending liberal Christianity, Buddhism, and a deep appreciation for “the web of life.” He viewed religion not just as philosophy, but as a community base where spiritual development finds expression in practical ethical actions.
He embraced life fully. Beyond theology, he was known for his love of stamp collecting, astronomy, and linguistics. Having fully adopted his Scottish home—often evidenced by his wearing of the kilt—he was also an enthusiast of piping and Scottish Country Dancing.
Remembering a Friend
His presence was a staple at gatherings, blending serious commitment with warmth. Derek McAuley, Chair of the IARF British Chapter, reflected:
John was committed to IARF and always attended our workshop at the British Unitarian Annual Meetings. We will miss his wry humour and his American-Scottish twang!
A Lasting Legacy
John passed away shortly after attending the induction of the new minister at St Mark’s, remaining active and supportive of his community to the very end.
We give thanks for John’s life, his ministry, and his tireless work for peace in Europe and beyond. The IARF sends its heartfelt condolences to his wife, Barbara, their five children and eight grandchildren, and his many friends in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the international community.
He will be greatly missed.
In Memoriam: Br. M.D. Sebastian, SHJ
The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) remembers with deep gratitude the life and legacy of Br. M.D. Sebastian, SHJ (1941–2025), who dedicated his life to promoting peace, harmony, and interfaith understanding.
Br. Sebastian was not only a committed religious leader but also a tireless advocate for dialogue across faiths. As a long-time member and supporter of IARF, he actively participated in numerous IARF conferences, where he spoke with conviction on the importance of interfaith dialogue. He had a special love for guiding the younger generation, often addressing students, motivating them to embrace diversity, and inspiring them to become ambassadors of peace.
One of his remarkable contributions was the publication of a book for students on interfaith understanding, a pioneering effort to nurture young minds with values of tolerance, acceptance, and universal brotherhood. Through his writings, teachings, and community service, Bro. Sebastian consistently emphasized that interfaith dialogue is not only necessary for peace but also essential for the growth of humanity.
Even until his last days, he remained deeply committed to the cause of IARF, offering his wisdom, guidance, and blessings to its mission of building bridges between communities.
Today, as we honor his memory, we also celebrate his vision, a world where people of all faiths can live together in peace and friendship. Br. M.D. Sebastian’s life continues to be an inspiration to all who walk the path of interfaith harmony.
Br. Britto, SHJ
National Secretary
IARF India Chapter
The Rev. Dr. Richard Boeke: A Life of Faith in Action Across Borders
The Rev. Dr. Richard “Dick” Boeke (March 2, 1931 – May 25, 2025), a tireless advocate for interfaith cooperation and religious freedom, passed away on May 25th. His legacy in the Unitarian Universalist tradition and the International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) reflects a rare combination of theological depth, institutional leadership, and joyful service.
Born into a Southern Baptist family, Dick’s spiritual journey led him through study and reflection to the Unitarian faith while in seminary. He often remarked that study liberates—a theme that ran through his ministry and international engagement. As a minister in the UUA, he brought a passion for global understanding that extended far beyond his pulpit.
In the IARF, he found a spiritual home where his commitments to pluralism, dialogue, and peace could flourish. Inspired by the teachings of Shin’ichirō Imaoka, Dick became a leading voice for Free Religion—a vision of spirituality unbound by dogma, rooted instead in a reverence for truth, openness, and moral responsibility. He advocated for serious study of others’ religions as an act of mutual respect.
Among his many achievements was helping to establish the Albert Schweitzer Award within IARF, which honored figures who embodied service to humanity in the spirit of liberal religion. The first recipient was Founder Nikkyo Niwano of Rissho Koseikai, a model of Buddhist leadership for peace. Richard’s personal humility was evident in his constant lifting up of others whose lives inspired hope and courage.
Another example of his international bridge-building was his collaboration with Chief Priest Yukitaka Yamamoto to create Tsubaki America, the first Shinto shrine for interfaith worship in the continental U.S. His work helped translate Japanese spiritual values into a global context—offering Americans a way to engage with Shinto practice and nature-based reverence.
Richard’s writings and teachings emphasized faith not as rigid belief, but as trust—in others, in life, and in the transformative power of service. His generous spirit, like his enduring smile, touched lives around the world.
May his memory continue to be a light—illuminating paths of wisdom, compassion, and unshakable hope.
The IARF is deeply grateful to the Boeke family for sharing Rev. Dr. Boeke’s wish that memorial contributions be made to our organisation. We thank all who may choose to honor his memory in this way.
Those wishing to make a gift may do so here. Your support will help continue the work that was so dear to him.
In memory of Adv. Shabeer Ahmed
Adv. Shabeer Ahmed, a long-time IARF member and esteemed activist, passed away this month after a short illness. We extend our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, as well as
the whole India Chapter of the IARF.
Adv. Ahmed was involved in the Mysore branch of the India Chapter since its establishment. He served as its chairman and secretary, and devoted over 20 years to developing IARF in India and towards attaining its goals of fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation and promotion of respect for human rights.
He shared his talents and devotion serving at different posts: of Human Rights Education Facilitator, Vice President and Secreatry of the India Chapter, member of IARF’s International Council and Chairman of the former South Asia Coordinating Council, among others.
In memory of Rev. Dr. Orlanda Brugnola
The IARF has lost an exceptional member with the passing of Rev. Dr. Orlanda Brugnola (1946-2016) who died on 24 February. She was a human rights activist, advocate of interfaith dialogue, a Unitarian minister and a scholar. Her involvement with the IARF began many years ago; she was active in our American Chapter and represented us at the UN in New York. You may get an insight into the inspirational personality, life and beliefs of this “technician of the sacred”, as she called herself, by visiting her website, www.orlandabrugnola.com.
Doris Hunter from our American Chapter, who knew Rev. Orlanda for many years, has written the following commemorative note.
Members and Friends of the International Association for Religious Freedom were shocked to hear of the sudden death of the Rev. Dr. Orlanda Brugnola. She was a long time friend and supporter of IARF as well as IALRW serving on the board of the US Chapter, organizing workshops and giving lectures for international IARF Congress and for the US Chapter. As a Unitarian Universalist Minister she carried this love for world religions and her commitment to interfaith dialogue and understanding to local churches and to her students at John Jay College in New York City. She was a Renaissance spirit producing works of art, poetry and creative ideas designed to change the world. Orlanda’s interests were boundless and reflected not only an amazing intellectual ability but also an appreciation for the rich diversity of human culture. Above all, Orlanda was a faithful friend to everyone she met. Her presence spread grace to all who knew her. This world of ours is a better place because of her amazing life. Doris Hunter
RIP Dr. Abdelfattah Amor
An article from IRLA on the passing of Professor Amor, who served from 1993 to 2004 as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief.