Introduction to Interreligious Engagement

Introduction to Interreligious Engagement

This self-paced course equips participants to understand what interreligious engagement is, why it is important, and a variety of ways to engage with others. You’ll hear from leaders and practitioners from a variety of faith traditions discuss their own perspectives, theological grounding and experiential wisdom. Additional articles from The Interfaith Observer online journal will expand participants’ understanding of this complex topic. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on their own understanding and experience of interreligious engagement and consider new pathways to building relationships in their own community.

Why This Course Matters Today

We all live in an increasingly pluralistic society, engaging with people of differing faith and wisdom traditions. We often feel ill-equipped for meaningful engagement with people of different faiths, and our caution or nervousness keeps us isolated and disconnected. But with the right frame of mind and little bit of courage, we find that Interreligious Engagement enriches our lives, deepens connection with our own tradition, and promotes the well-being of our communities. This course offers insights from a variety of religious leaders that lead to an understanding of what interreligious engagement is, why it is important, and practical examples of how to do it.

Learning Objectives

By completing this course you will be able to

  • Understand your own faith tradition more deeply
  • Reflect on your own understanding of interreligious engagement
  • Recognize your hesitations related to interreligious engagement
  • Explore how you can learn more about people of other faiths
  • Create opportunities in your life for interreligious engagement

Course Content

Module 1: What is Interreligious Engagement? Module 2: Why Engage with Other Religions?
2.1 Video: Interreligious Perspective: Hannah Hochkeppel
5 Topics
2.2 Video: Interreligious Perspective: Rabbi Jason Levine
2.3 Video: Interreligious Perspective: Sebrina Somers
2.4 Reading: Why Democracy Needs the Interfaith Movement
2.5 Podcast: Values That Can Shape All of Us
2.6 Reflection Prompts
Module 3: Engaging in Interfaith Dialogue & Leadership
3.1 Video: Interreligious Perspective: Fr. Gary Lazzeroni
4 Topics
3.2 Video: Interreligious Perspective: Mahrukh Motofram
3.3 Reading: Guidelines for Engaging in Productive Interfaith Dialogue
3.4 Reading: Proximity, Vulnerability, and Receptivity
3.5 Reflection Prompts
Engage Our Team: End of Course Review