Rumi Forum

Scriptural Reasoning: "Revelation"
2024-02-22 18:30 - 20:00 UTC | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on February 22, 2024 to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Revelation” with our study leader, Rev. Rebecca Messman, from Burke Presbyterian Church.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.

Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible Christian Scripture: New Testament

This Month`s Study Leader

Rev. Rebecca Messman is the Senior Pastor of Burke Presbyterian Church in Burke, Virginia. She has been actively engaged in community organizing in Fairfax County and the state of Virginia for more than 15 years, working on affordable housing, behavioral health, and after-school programs. She is a frequent writer and speaker, writing articles for Christian Century and the Presbyterian Outlook magazine. She created a multi-faith, multi-race clergy association that toured the state of Virginia by bus, examining places of racial pain in the Commonwealth and interviewing Civil Rights leaders whose stories had not been told before. This effort became a documentary on PBS.
Before serving at Burke Presbyterian, Pastor Messman served at Trinity Presbyterian in Herndon and helped found a ministry with Spanish-speaking day laborers called Lunch for the Soul. She graduated from Princeton Seminary and the University of Virginia. She lives in Arlington with her husband and two children.

Ramadan 2024 – An overview of Iftar programs
2024-03-10 05:00 - 2024-04-09 20:00 | VA
Ramadan 2024 marked a joyous occasion for Rumi Forum and its community partners as we came together to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan. Our Ramadan Iftars served as warm and welcoming gatherings where cherished memories were rekindled, updates on our ongoing initiatives were shared, and meaningful discussions on enhancing our collective efforts took place. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community partners, allies, friends, and dedicated volunteers whose presence made Ramadan a truly enriching experience, fostering stronger bonds and forging new connections. This special period gave us a precious opportunity to reconnect with old friends and allies while embracing the joy of Iftar and engaging in insightful conversations about our shared aspirations for the future.
Ramadan Reunion Iftar

Virginia Community Iftar

Maryland Community Iftar

Iftar with BJC (Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty)

Iftar with International Religious Freedom Summit and National Museum for American Religion

Iftar with Interfaith Encounters Association (IEA)

Scriptural Reasoning on “Riots and Rebellion” and Iftar at Virginia Theological Seminary

Iftar with Interreligious Communities Project (ICP)

Iftar with Jerusalem Youth Chorus (JYC)

Scriptural Reasoning: "Riots and Rebellion"
2024-03-21 18:00 - 20:30 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on March 21, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures, followed by an Iftar, on “Riots and Rebellion” with our study leader Rev. Larry Golemon from Washington Theological Consortium.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

Program Outline:
6:00 – 7:15 pm – Scriptural Reasoning session on “Riots and Rebellion”
7:25 – 8:30 pm – Iftar dinner and conversations at the table

This Month`s Study Leader

Rev. Larry Golemon, Ph.D., is the Executive Director of the Washington Theological Consortium. Larry has served the wider church in various capacities: youth minister, local pastor, college and seminary professor, missionary, and researcher. He received a B.A. in History from Stanford University, a Master of Divinity and a Master of Sacred Theology from the Yale Divinity School, a ThM from Columbia Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in contemporary theology from Emory University’s Graduate Division of Religion. He is an ordained Presbyterian minister (PCUSA).
As a researcher, Dr. Golemon was an associate for the national study of theological education by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and co-authored their findings in Educating Clergy (2006). He taught at the Dominican University of California and the GTU. He directed their research project entitled “Sacred Visions and the Social Good,” which explored religion in public life among Buddhists, Sufis, Native Americans, and faith-based Catholic and Protestant parishes. While at the Alban Institute in Virginia, he directed the Narrative Leadership project, which explored the story-based transformation of congregational life. He also coordinated the “Ecumenical Project” at Virginia Theological Seminary, identifying capacities and new possibilities for ecumenical teaching and learning. He continues to write in theological education, with a new book entitled “Clergy Education in America: Religious Leadership and American Public Life, 1785-1935” (Oxford Press, 2021). The book analyzes how Protestants, Catholics, and Jews have educated clergy for American society, specifically as culture-builders in religious and public life. Later, schools for woman, African Americans, and the white working class followed suit in their own distinctive ways.

Scriptural Reasoning: “Scripture”
2024-04-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on April 18, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Scripture” with our study leader, Hazzan Henrique Ozur Bass, from Congregation Har Shalom.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a topic. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

Hazzan Henrique Ozur Bass has served as Hazzan at Congregation Har Shalom since 1996. He was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. At his Bar Mitzvah service, his Rabbi invited him to lead High Holy Days services the following year, which he continued to do through his graduation from college. After completing a degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the Instituto Militar de Engenharia, Hazzan Ozur Bass worked for two years as an engineer for IBM and Petrobras. In 1989, he left his native Brazil to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming a Hazzan, enrolling in the Cantors Institute of the Jewish Theological Seminary(NY).
As part of his six years of training, he spent a year in Israel at the Masorti Rabbinical School in Jerusalem. Hazzan Ozur Bass also led services in congregations throughout Israel, Brazil, and the United States. During the course of his studies, he received many awards for his musical and cantorial abilities and graduated in 1995. Hazzan Ozur Bass is grateful to Har Shalom for encouraging him to participate in professional growth and community involvement throughout his tenure. He has served on the Cantors Assembly Executive Board, graduated from the Institute of Jewish Spirituality, and is currently studying Clinical Pastoral Education.

Scriptural Reasoning: “Spiritual Mentoring”
2024-05-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on May 16, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Spiritual Mentoring” with our study leader, Taalibah Hassan, from Dar Al Noor Islamic Community Center.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

Taalibah Hassan is the Interfaith Chair at Dar Al Noor Islamic Community Center in Manassas. Taalibah started her journey to Interfaith Dialogue in 2007 when she trained as a Facilitator at the Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington (IFC). She is a native of the Washington Metropolitan area. Taalibah earned a Graduate Certificate in Imam and Muslim Leadership from Hartford Seminary. She has a Master’s and undergraduate degree from Howard University in Education and is a retired Biology teacher. Her most recent training is in Scriptural Reasoning 2023 at the Virginia Theological Seminary. Through the years, she has been a dialogue facilitator with various organizations. A few are the Interfaith Community for Dialogue (ICD) and the Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies (ICJ). Taalibah has also been a guest trainer in Interfaith Dialogue at Howard University School of Divinity.

Quarterly Social-Summer 2024: “Empathy”
2024-08-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Friends Meeting of Washington, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW, Washington, DC, 20008, United States
Rumi Forum organized its “Summer 2024 Quarterly Social” at the Friends Meeting of Washington on August 22, 2024. Quarterly Social is an opportunity to meet individuals from various walks of life and engage in stimulating conversations. Each Quarterly Social gathering features a different theme on which participants share their reflections in an open and welcoming environment. The meetings take the form of facilitated conversations in which participants themselves are the speakers.
Our theme for the Summer 2024 Quarterly Social was “Empathy.” There were some questions to ponder before our gathering:
A personal understanding:
How do you define empathy in your own words?
Describe a time when someone showed empathy towards you.

In daily life:
How do you practice empathy in your daily interactions with others?
What are the challenges you face when trying to be empathetic?
How does empathy influence your professional relationships?

In society:
What role does empathy play in addressing social issues and injustices?
How can communities foster a greater sense of empathy among their members?

Scriptural Reasoning: “Empathy”
2024-09-12 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on September 12, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Empathy” with our study leader, Yehuda Stolov, from the Interfaith Encounter Association (IEA).
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a topic. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

Yehuda Stolov is the executive director of the Interfaith Encounter Association (IEA). Since 2001, the IEA has worked to build peaceful inter-communal relations in the Holy Land by fostering mutual respect and trust between people and communities through active interfaith dialogue. Dr. Stolov has lectured on the role of religious dialogue in peace-building worldwide, including in Jordan, India, Indonesia, Turkey, South Korea, North America, and Europe. In 2006, he was awarded the Immortal Chaplains Foundation’s Prize for Humanity, which honors those who “risked all to protect others of a different faith or ethnic origin.” In 2015, he was awarded the Institute of International Education Victor J. Goldberg Prize for Peace in the Middle East. Among other activities, Dr. Stolov was a member of the International Council of the International Association for Religious Freedom and the United Nations Decade of Interreligious Dialogue and Cooperation for Peace steering committee.

Interreligious Communities Project: Solidarity Pledge and Celebration
2024-09-15 15:00 - 17:00 | Historic Blenheim Interpretive Center, 3610 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA, 22030, United States
The Interreligious Communities Project (ICP) Solidarity Pledge Ceremony occurred at the Historic Blenheim Interpretive Center (3610 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA) on Sunday, September 15th, from 3 to 5 p.m. Each community’s representatives formally signed the pledge and shared what it meant to them.
A group of seven congregations around the Northern Virginia/Washington, DC region has spent more than a year engaged in an interreligious effort to build understanding and solidarity across differences. Even in this time of heightened bias and polarization, gathering and sharing our mutual humanity seeds hope.
These seven congregations and other partner faith communities celebrated their work together and the relationships built as they pledged ongoing solidarity in the interest of peace, understanding, and safe communities.
We have completed Phase 1! Congregations in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. collaborated to explore sacred architecture, get to know one another, heal divides, deepen understanding of self and others, create community, and build an inspiring future. Read the Solidarity Pledge below, which they signed on September 15, 2024, declaring their learnings and commitments for the future.

In Phase 2, the congregations will determine and enact a civic action project. Click here to learn more.​
Participating congregations include:
Chinmaya Somnath
Firefly House
Dharma Surya Tibetan Buddhist Temple
Masjid Muhammad
Burke Presbyterian Church
Temple Rodef Shalom
St. Bernadette Parish

Partner Event: SDGs Conference 2024
2024-09-25 10:00 - 16:30 | 630 Second, 630 Second Ave-Grand Ballroom, New York, NY, 10016, United States
In the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79), the Journalists and Writers Foundation, in collaboration with 56 civil society organizations from 30 countries, including Rumi Forum, hosted the 9th Annual SDGs Conference 2024 in New York on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
At this pivotal moment, civil society leaders, human rights advocates, journalists, and intellectuals from diverse backgrounds must intensify their partnerships to amplify the progressive efforts of the United Nations as the world navigates a significant period of transformation. The SDGs Conference 2024 brought together renowned experts and high-level speakers from various disciplines to tackle three pressing issues: (1) The Summit of the Future: Revitalizing the Pact for the Future, (2) Information Integrity on Digital Platforms and Mainstream Media and (3) Transforming Inclusive Global Governance.
Rumi Forum`s Blog Series on Human Rights and SDGs

Scriptural Reasoning: “Humility”
2024-10-07 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on September 12, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Humility” with our study leader, The Reverend Aaron R. Dunn, from the Grace Episcopal Church, Silver Spring, MD.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a topic. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

The Reverend Aaron R. Dunn serves as Associate Rector at Grace Episcopal Church in Silver Spring, MD, and Part-time Chaplain at Christ Episcopal School, Rockville. He graduated from Virginia Theological Seminary, earning a Masters in Divinity and a certificate in Muslim-Christian Studies through the Washington Theological Consortium. In 2024, he was awarded the Anglican Communion Prize through the Center for Anglican Communion Studies at VTS for his “dedication to international Christian mission and theological understanding across cultural and theological differences.” Aaron has been a discussion facilitator for interreligious organizations such as the Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies and the Rumi Forum.
In 2022, he participated in the ICJS’ Emerging Religious Leader’s Program, focusing on Muslim-Christian Dialogue. In 2023, he completed training as a Scriptural Reasoning facilitator through the Rose Castle Foundation. Most recently, he participated in the inaugural Congregational Leaders Workshop through the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Scriptural Reasoning: “Curiosity”
2024-11-07 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum held its monthly circle on November 7, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Curiosity” with Fatimah Popal, our study leader from MakeSpace.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a topic. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

Fatimah Popal is a co-founder and Managing Director of MakeSpace (est. 2013), a third space serving as an inclusive community of God-conscious, compassionate, and empowered American Muslims, providing a platform for those often sidelined – women and youth. Before MakeSpace, she served as a community builder at a local mosque for over a decade, focusing on outreach, interfaith collaboration, youth empowerment, and pastoral care. Ms. Popal is also an Interfaith Communities for Dialogue (ICD) board member who promotes mutual understanding and positive relationships amongst faith-based communities.
Ms. Popal holds a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University. Her specializations are identity, trauma and healing, interpersonal and organizational conflict, and restorative justice. She also serves as the first Muslim chaplain for Fairfax County’s police department.

2024 Annual Gala and Dialogue Awards Ceremony
2024-11-12 18:30 - 20:30 | National Press Club, 529 14th St NW-13th Floor, Ballroom, Washington, DC, 20045, United States
Rumi Forum’s 2024 Annual Gala and Dialogue Awards Ceremony marked the Forum’s 25th anniversary. This milestone reflects a quarter-century of dedication to fostering understanding, compassion, and peace through dialogue. Our evening was filled with inspiring speakers, heartfelt performances, and the celebration of individuals who embody the values of inclusivity and unity.
Event Recap

Opening Remarks
The evening began with a warm welcome from our MC, Natalie Bencivenga, who highlighted Rumi Forum’s mission to bridge divides and celebrate diversity. She set the tone for an evening of reflection and unity, reminding us of Rumi’s words: “Raise your words, not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”
Dr. Ori Soltes, Chairman of the Rumi Forum’s Board of Directors, shared his perspective on the Forum’s journey and impact. Following him, Rabbi Stephanie Bernstein, Chaplain of Washington, DC’s Metropolitan Police Department, delivered remarks that underscored the importance of dialogue in building a harmonious society.
Special Performance
We were delighted to host Sufi Melody, a renowned ensemble from the Washington, DC area. Their mesmerizing music, inspired by the inclusive tradition of Sufism, brought a sense of unity and joy to our gathering.
Honoring Our Founder
Dr. Zeki Saritoprak, founder of Rumi Forum, took the stage to share the inspiring story behind the Forum’s creation, mission, and guiding vision, which have shaped its work over the past 25 years. His reflections reminded us of the transformative power of dialogue in building connections across faiths and cultures.
Tribute to Fethullah Gülen
In a special moment, we reflected on the legacy of the late honorary chairman, Fethullah Gülen. Known for his commitment to peace and interfaith understanding, Mr. Gülen’s work has been a beacon of hope and compassion. A video tribute highlighted his contributions and enduring impact on communities worldwide.
Presentation of the 2024 Dialogue Award
Rev. Thomas L. Bowen, White House Senior Advisor for Public Engagement, presented the 2024 Dialogue Award to Imam Dr. Talib Shareef, a leader whose work exemplifies the values of inclusivity and harmony. Imam Shareef’s acceptance speech was a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and compassion in today’s world.
Closing Remarks
The evening concluded with remarks from Ibrahim Anli, Executive Director of Rumi Forum. He expressed gratitude for the support and partnership of all in attendance. He encouraged us to carry forward the spirit of unity, working together toward a more peaceful and equitable world.
Join Us in Advancing Dialogue and Understanding
This event would not have been possible without the generous support of our community. We invite you to contribute to our 25th-anniversary campaign to help us reach our goal of raising $25,000. Your support enables us to continue our work, from hosting community events to providing educational resources, as we build a world rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
Event Photos

Full Video

About Rumi Forum:
Rumi Forum works towards strengthening the culture of peace, religious pluralism, and social harmony among faith communities and individuals of diverse beliefs, ethnicities, and backgrounds. The Forum strives to achieve this goal by building, informing, and mobilizing an active interfaith dialogue community.
About the Rumi Dialogue Award:
A traditional component of Rumi Forum’s endeavor is recognizing the lifetime dedication of inspirational public figures who have championed its cause. The Rumi Forum Dialogue Award honors successful practitioners with outstanding track records in interfaith engagement, community service, human rights, and education.
Thank you for joining us and many distinguished guests as we reconnected and renewed our commitment to interfaith work!

Quarterly Social-Fall 2024: “Friendship”
2024-11-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Friends Meeting of Washington, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW, Washington, DC, 20008, United States
Rumi Forum organized its “Fall 2024 Quarterly Social” at the Friends Meeting of Washington on November 23, 2024. Quarterly Social is an opportunity to meet individuals from various walks of life and engage in stimulating conversations. Each Quarterly Social gathering features a different theme on which participants share their reflections in an open and welcoming environment. The meetings take the form of facilitated conversations in which participants themselves are the speakers.
Our theme for the Fall 2024 Quarterly Social was “Friendship.” There were some questions to ponder before our gathering:

How do you define friendship?
How do you pick your friends? What qualities do you look for in a friend?
What role does honesty play in your friendships?
Have you or your friend ever had to be brutally honest with each other?
How do you handle conflicts and disagreements with friends?
What does “friends become our chosen family” mean to you?
How do you navigate friendships with people from different backgrounds and cultures?

Scriptural Reasoning: “Lament"
2024-12-05 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum held its monthly circle on December 5, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Lament” with Dr. Ori Z. Soltes, our study leader from Georgetown University.

Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a topic. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

Ori Z. Soltes teaches at Georgetown University across a range of disciplines, from art history and theology to philosophy and political history. He is the former Director of the B’nai B’rith Klutznick National Jewish Museum, and has curated more than 85 exhibitions there and in other venues across the country and overseas. He has authored or edited 25 books and several hundred articles and essays. Recent volumes include Our Sacred Signs: How Jewish, Christian and Muslim Art Draw from the Same Source; Searching for Oneness: Mysticism in Judaism, Christianity and Islam; Untangling the Web: Why the Middle East is a Mess and Always Has Been; Tradition and Transformation: Three Millennia of Jewish Art & Architecture; God and the Goalposts: A Brief History of Religion, Sports, Politics, War, and Art; and Between Thought and Action: An Intellectual Biography of Fethullah Gulen.

Partner Event: IRF Summit 2025
2025-02-04 08:00 - 2025-02-05 17:00 | Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave, N.W., Washington, DC, 20009, United States
Rumi Forum will once again proudly serve as a Convening Partner and Steering Committee Member of the IRF Summit 2025, the premier global gathering of religious freedom advocates and activists. This landmark event, set to take place on February 4–5, 2025, in Washington, DC, will bring together a diverse coalition of organizations and individuals committed to a shared and profound mission: Religious Freedom for everyone, everywhere, all the time.

The Summit will unite the dynamic IRF community for two days of impactful programming featuring survivors of persecution, leading experts in human rights and religious freedom, and government officials actively advancing this cause. Attendees will be able to engage in thought-provoking discussions, hear firsthand testimonies, and participate in collaborative initiatives to promote religious freedom worldwide.
With enhanced programming, IRF Summit 2025 will also introduce new opportunities for networking, strategic partnerships, and future collaborations. The Summit will feature four unique Breakout Tracks, each designed to address key areas of religious freedom advocacy:
🔹 Empower – Equipping individuals and communities with tools to advance religious freedom
🔹 Legislate – Exploring legal frameworks and policies that safeguard religious rights
🔹 Advocate – Strengthening global advocacy efforts and amplifying voices for change
🔹 Activate – Mobilizing grassroots movements and action-oriented initiatives
Rumi Forum looks forward to welcoming IRF Summit participants at its booth and the two breakout sessions under the ‘Advocate’ track:

Feb.4: 4:15–5 pm – Voices Behind Bars: Solutions-Based Advocacy for Prisoners of Conscience

Andrea Barron (Torture Abolition and Survivors Support Coalition International)

Feb.5: 1:–2 pm – A Bridge to Stability: Building Structural Capacity in Crisis-Affected Countries

Arbana Xharra (Alon Ben Meir Institute)

As a committed partner in advancing religious freedom, Rumi Forum looks forward to contributing to this vital conversation and working alongside fellow advocates to build a more just and inclusive world.

The Institute of World Politics Panel Discussion: "Abrahamic Peace Initiative"
2025-02-13 16:00 - 18:00 | The Institute of World Politics, 1521 16th St NW, Washington, DC, 20036, United States
Rumi Forum was pleased to partner with The Institute of World Politics (IWP) for a thought-provoking discussion on the Abrahamic Peace Initiative, exploring faith-based approaches to conflict resolution and peacemaking. This event took place at IWP in Washington, D.C., bringing together scholars, faith leaders, and policymakers to examine how religious traditions can serve as powerful forces for reconciliation, coexistence, and lasting peace.
About the Abrahamic Peace Initiative
Rooted in the shared values of the Abrahamic faiths—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, this initiative seeks to present an alternative to conflict and bloodshed by fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaboration. The discussion will highlight historical and contemporary examples of faith-driven peace efforts and offer insights into how religious communities can be active agents of conflict resolution in today’s world.
Speakers

Thomas Cromwell is co-founder of the New America Initiative and Chairman of the Abrahamic Peace Initiative. He spent 25 years in the Middle East, 18 as publisher and editor of the Middle East Times. During his time in the region, he conducted a series of conferences that brought together Arabs and Israelis, Greeks, Turks, and Iranians to address shared challenges to their societies, from urbanization and agriculture to education and conflict resolution. He has traveled to 130 countries to understand and promote solutions to inter-religious and inter-ethnic conflicts. He has authored several books on these topics, including The Triumph of Good.

Ibrahim Anli is the Executive Director of the Rumi Forum. He was a visiting researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Ibrahim joined the Journalists and Writers Foundation’s (JWF) Ankara office as its diplomacy coordinator. He later served as the secretary general of Abant Platform, JWF’s Istanbul-based forum of intellectuals. Ibrahim taught International Relations and Diplomacy at Tishk International University in Erbil, Kurdistan, before joining Rumi Forum in 2019.
Ibrahim Anli has published several peer-reviewed book chapters and articles. He holds a BA in Economics from Istanbul University, an MA in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Sabanci University, and a certificate in Strategic Management for Leaders of NGOs from Harvard University. He is a member of the Braver Angels Scholars Council and also serves on the board of the Religion Communicators Council.

Scriptural Reasoning: “Forgiveness”
2025-02-13 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum held its monthly circle on February 13, 2025, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Forgiveness” with Imam Faizul Khan, our study leader from the Islamic Society of the Washington Area (ISWA) in Silver Spring, MD.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

Imam Faizul Khan is a distinguished religious leader and community advocate with over 45 years of service in social, religious, cultural, educational, and outreach initiatives. He is the founding member and Imam of the Islamic Society of Washington Area (ISWA) in Silver Spring, Maryland, a growing and diverse faith community established in 1973.
Originally from Guyana, Imam Khan has been actively involved in youth leadership, serving as President of the Muslim Youth League and General Secretary of The Guyana Assembly of Youth. His dedication to interfaith collaboration and community engagement has made a lasting impact in the Washington Metropolitan Area. He was recently appointed President of the Montgomery County Faith Advisory Council.
Imam Khan’s commitment to social justice has earned him seventeen national awards in domestic violence prevention, social services, and volunteerism. In 2011, Georgetown University recognized him as one of the 500 Most Influential Muslims in the World.

Quarterly Social-Winter 2025: "Personal Responsibility"
2025-02-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Friends Meeting of Washington, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW, Washington, DC, 20008, United States
Rumi Forum organized its “Winter 2025 Quarterly Social” at the Friends Meeting of Washington on February 22, 2025. Quarterly Social is an opportunity to meet individuals from various walks of life and engage in stimulating conversations. Each Quarterly Social gathering features a different theme on which participants share their reflections in an open and welcoming environment. The meetings take the form of facilitated conversations in which participants themselves are the speakers.
Our theme for the Winter 2025 Quarterly Social was “Personal Responsibility.” There were some questions to ponder before our gathering:

What are the biggest causes of meaninglessness among young people today? (Consider factors like social isolation, technology addiction, financial struggles, relationship difficulties, and lack of purpose.)
What have you seen—either in your own life or in others—that helps people overcome these struggles and find meaning? (Think about community, habits, faith, mentorship, career choices, or other key influences.)
How do work, financial stability, and relationships shape a young person’s sense of purpose, and what challenges make this difficult? (How do career success, economic security, and substantial relationships impact fulfillment, and what barriers stand?)
What does it mean to be a leader among your peers in a generation facing these struggles, and how can young professionals support each other in finding meaning? (What practical or philosophical approaches can help young people guide and uplift each other?)

Ramadan 2025 – An overview of Iftar programs
2025-03-01 05:00 - 2025-03-29 19:30 | VA
Ramadan 2025 was a time of togetherness, gratitude, and meaningful dialogue for Rumi Forum and our valued community partners. Our Iftars once again provided a space for connection, where old friendships were rekindled, new relationships were formed, and our shared commitment to fostering understanding and collaboration was strengthened.
We are deeply grateful to our partners, allies, and dedicated volunteers, whose presence enriched these gatherings and made this Ramadan a truly special experience. Beyond the joy of breaking fast together, we engaged in thought-provoking conversations about our collective aspirations and how we can continue working toward a more inclusive and compassionate society.
As we reflect on this sacred month, we carry forward the spirit of unity and renewal, inspired by the bonds we have strengthened and the meaningful exchanges we have shared. Thank you to everyone who made this Ramadan a time of deep connection and purpose!
Ramadan Reunion Iftar

Scriptural Reasoning on “Vulnerability” and Iftar at Virginia Theological Seminary

Maryland Community Iftar at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Rockville (UUCR)

Braver Angels (Fairfax & DC) “Faith and Depolarization” Panel and Iftar

Microsoft Innovation & Policy Center Iftar

Northern Virginia Community Iftar at the American Turkish Friendship Association (ATFA)

2nd Annual Religious Freedom Community Iftar

Interreligious Communities Project (ICP) Iftar at Temple Rodef Shalom

New America Initiative “Why the World Needs a New Approach to Peace?” Panel and Iftar

Quarterly Social-Spring 2025: "Breaking Social Norms"
2025-05-15 18:30 - 20:00 | Friends Meeting of Washington, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW, Washington, DC, 20008, United States
Rumi Forum organized its “Spring 2025 Quarterly Social” at the Friends Meeting of Washington on May 15, 2025. Quarterly Social is an opportunity to meet individuals from various walks of life and engage in stimulating conversations. Each Quarterly Social gathering features a different theme on which participants share their reflections in an open and welcoming environment. The meetings take the form of facilitated conversations in which participants themselves are the speakers.
Our Spring 2025 Quarterly Social theme was “Breaking Social Norms.” There were some questions to ponder before our gathering:

What social norms shape your day-to-day life, community, or culture?
Do you agree with them, or find yourself pushing back?
How do responses to social norms differ between Gen Z and other generations?
What are the pros and cons of preserving vs. challenging these norms?
And how do we decide which to uphold and which to leave behind?

CFIG Panel:Fethullah Gülen’s Legacy&the Hizmet Movement’s Forward Trajectory
2025-10-29 17:00 - 19:00 | University of Southern California Capital Campus, 1771 N Street Northwest, Washington, DC, DC, 20036, United States
On the first anniversary of Fethullah Gülen’s passing, the Rumi Forum’s Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization (CFIG) hosted a special panel featuring two distinguished scholars—Dr. Ori Z. Soltes and Dr. Anwar Alam—to reflect on Gülen’s intellectual, spiritual, and social legacy. The event drew a strong turnout and featured a lively, illuminating dialogue on how the Hizmet Movement continues to evolve in today’s complex global landscape.
Moderated by Lyndsey Eksili, the discussion explored how Gülen’s philosophy of education, interfaith dialogue, and civic engagement continues to inspire new generations to pursue peace, pluralism, and service (“hizmet”) across borders.
As participants marked a year since his passing, the conversation served as a meaningful reflection on Gülen’s enduring contributions and an engaging exploration of the path forward for the Hizmet Movement—its challenges, hopes, and role in shaping a more compassionate and pluralistic future.
Event Video

Event Photos

Panelists

Ori Z. Soltes, Ph.D., is Professorial Lecturer in Theology and Fine Arts at Georgetown University and former Director of the B’nai B’rith Klutznick National Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, where he curated over 80 exhibitions on a variety of subjects. He is the author of articles, exhibition catalogs, essays, and books on a range of topics, including Our Sacred Signs: How Jewish, Christian, and Muslim Art Draw from the Same Source; The Ashen Rainbow: Essays on the Arts and the Holocaust; Christianity and Islam: Searching for Oneness; Tradition and Transformation: Three Millennia of Jewish Art and Architecture; Magic and Religion in the Greco-Roman World: The Beginnings of Judaism and Christianity; and God and the Goalposts: A Brief History of Sports, Religion, Politics, War, and Art.
He also wrote Embracing the World: Fethullah Gülen’s Thought & Its Relationship with Jelaluddin Rumi and Others (2013) and Between Thought and Action: An Intellectual Biography of Fethullah Gülen (2022).

Anwar Alam, Ph.D., is currently a Professor with the Department of International Relations, Ala-Too International University, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and a Distinguished Fellow with Policy Perspectives Foundation, New Delhi. Earlier he served as Full Professor of International Relations and Deputy Vice Chancellor at Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja; Full Professor at Department of International Studies, Zirve University, Gaziantep, Turkey, Professor and Director at Centre for West Asian Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, (New Delhi); Associate Professor at Centre for West Asian Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and Assistant Professor at Department of Political Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh.
Dr. Alam has authored more than 35 articles in national and international journals, as well as two books, six edited books, one co-edited book, and 17 chapters in edited books, all related to West Asia, Indian politics, Indian foreign policy, Islamic movements, and Muslim Politics. His latest publications are For the Sake of Allah: The Origin, Development and Discourse of The Gülen Movement (2019) and The Disintegration of ISIS: Implications for Indian National Security (2023).
Panelists

Lyndsey Eksili, Ed.D., is an experienced educator, writer, and advocate for holistic development and mental health. As the editorial director for Youth Titles at Tughra Books and a content editor for The Fountain Magazine, she combines nearly 20 years of educational leadership with her passion for creating meaningful, youth-focused content. She serves as the School Board President at Pinnacle Academy, contributes to the Early Childhood Development Task Force of Childhood Education International, and writes for and serves on the board of the Green Dome Foundation. Through her work, she champions early intervention, cultural understanding, and the intersection of faith and mental well-being.
Dr. Eksili holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from Liberty University, as well as certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Clinical Trauma.
