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Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns

Building Bridges of Faith in a Fear-Filled World

Hans Küng, a Catholic Swiss theologian has said, “There will be no peace among the nations without peace among the religions. There will be no peace among the religions without dialogue among the religions. There will be no serious dialogue among the religions without investigation of the foundations of the religions.” 
 
Promoting relationships and dialogue among Christian communities and among communities of different religions is at the heart of the work of CCUIC. 
 
During the past year (June 2007 – June 2008), CCUIC has:
  • Developed a workshop “Bridging the Gap: Islam and Christianity” to convey information about Islam and to encourage local congregations to develop a relationship with Muslims. The workshop has been presented during District Training events and to local units of United Methodist Women.
  • In response to a letter from leaders of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) to the Bishop requesting a meeting, CCUIC invited two representatives from the JCRC to a CCUIC meeting to elaborate on their concerns regarding ‘divestment’ and materials being used by United Methodists to learn about the Israel – Palestine situation. Representatives from the General Conference delegation, Board of Church and Society and the Israel – Palestine Task Force also participated.
  • Hosted a luncheon during ACS07 during which Imam Mohamed Abdul-Azeez of SALAM Islamic Center in Sacramento spoke.
  • Continued to build a network of UM in local congregations (Bridges of Faith Network) interested in interreligious and ecumenical work.
  • Hosting a luncheon during ACS08 (Thursday, June 19th) during which Rabbi Avram Davis, Director of Yeshiva Simchat Lev, a school preparing Jewish spiritual leaders, will speak about ‘Joyful Judaism’.
Commission Members
Connie Hunter, Chair                    
Rev. Alexis Easton, V. Chair
Rev. Ardys Sandell, Secretary
Julie Auer                                                      
Rev. Thomas Brackney
Janis Chisholm                                                
Joyce Dolton
Rev. Heather Hammer                                     
Susan Hunn
Rev. Charles Lerrigo                                        
Doug Sibley
Alex Souto                                                     
Rev. Kristin Stoneking
Precious Craft, National Council of Churches
Rev. Motoe Yamada, World Council of Churches
Rev. Linda Wiberg, Staff Liaison
 
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