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On April 28, 2025, Rumi Forum, Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization (CFIG), Wise Institute, The Catholic University of America`s School of Theology and Religious Studies and McLean Center for the Study of Culture and Values organized an enlightening conference dedicated to exploring the challenges and opportunities of teaching religion and passing down religious identity in the contemporary United States. This event gathered educators, scholars, religious leaders, and community members at the Catholic University of America to discuss innovative methods and strategies for imparting religious knowledge and values in a diverse and rapidly changing society.

Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, participants engaged with topics such as interfaith dialogue, the role of technology in religious education, and the balance between tradition and modernity. Together, we sought to understand how to effectively nurture and sustain religious identity across generations, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth in today’s globalized world.

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Opening Remarks

William A. Barbieri, Ph.D.: CUA, School of Theology & Religious Studies, Ordinary Professor of Ethics

Keynote Speaker

Merylann “Mimi” J. Schuttloffel, Ph.D.: CUA, Dept. of Education, Professor Emerita and Brother Patrick Ellis Chair & Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization (CFIG), Senior Fellow

Scholars Panel

Moderator: William A. Barbieri, Ph.D.: CUA, School of Theology & Religious Studies, Ordinary Professor of Ethics

Practitioners Panel

Moderator: Ibrahim Anli: Rumi Forum, Executive Director

    • Jewish: Rabbi Abbi Sharofsky: JCRC, Director of Intergroup Relations and Rabbi in Residence
    • Muslim: Ayse Selma Yilmaz: CORE Education Services, Mentor
    • Catholic: Susan Timoney: CUA, School of Theology & Religious Studies, Associate Professor of Practice in Pastoral Studies

Event Program

12:00 – 1:30 pm: Opening Remarks & Lunch

1:30 – 3:00 pm: Scholars Panel

3:00 – 3:30 pm: Coffee Break

3:30 – 5:00 pm: Practitioners Panel

5:00 – 5:10 pm: Closing Remarks

5:30 – 7:00 pm: Dinner (Pryzbyla Center, Great Room C)

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