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DTSTART:20220101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250706T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250706T201500
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250626T143027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250902T172232Z
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SUMMARY:Partner Event: "Faith and Freedom" Through Prayer and Reflection
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum partnered with Braver Faith to host a 75-minute\, national\, online gathering of witnesses\, prayer\, and music for Independence Day weekend. This event featured representatives from various religious traditions and political perspectives. Braver Angels’ Music and Arts team also provided inspirational patriotic hymns. \nParticipants joined us in healing our nation through worship as we began the year-long countdown to our country’s 250th anniversary.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/partner-event-faith-and-freedom-through-prayer-and-reflection/
LOCATION:ONLINE EVENT
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Interfaith Engagement,Upcoming Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HELP-FOR-VICTIMS-OF-EARTHQUAKE-IN-SOUTHERN-TURKEY-AND-SYRIA-46.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250605T173000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250605T213000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250528T162014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T174545Z
UID:22649-1749144600-1749159000@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Partner Event: Jerusalem Youth Chorus (JYC) Washington\, DC Concert
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum is honored to once again partner with the internationally acclaimed Jerusalem Youth Chorus (JYC) — a trailblazing ensemble of Israeli and Palestinian youth from East and West Jerusalem who raise their voices for peace\, equity\, inclusion\, and justice. JYC will perform as part of the Meridian Culturefix: “Taste of a Shared Future: A musical-culinary journey” on June 5\, 2025\, at 5:30pm and 8pm at the Nabiha DC restaurant. \n \nSongs and Stories from the Frontlines of Hope is more than just a transformative concert; this tour is an experience of music and personal testimony\, woven together by young changemakers who refuse to give up on each other—or hope. These young singers continue to meet\, sing\, and speak their truths amidst war and tension. Through powerful\, trilingual music performances and intimate storytelling\, JYC invites audiences into a living dialogue across divides\, challenging what we believe is possible in pursuing a shared future. \nFeatured on America’s Got Talent\, TED\, and stages worldwide\, the Jerusalem Youth Chorus has become a global symbol of resilience and unity. Now\, they bring their message directly to you\, not of easy answers\, but of courageous connection. \nCome listen. Come witness. Come be part of the movement.\nBecause when young voices sing from the frontlines of hope\, the world listens.\nJoin us.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/partner-event-jerusalem-youth-chorus-jyc-washington-dc-concert/
LOCATION:Nabiha DC\, 1624 U St.\, NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Interfaith Engagement,Upcoming Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250528T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250528T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250510T143218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T184316Z
UID:22618-1748455200-1748466000@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Book Talk: "The Motorhome Prophecies" with Carrie Sheffield
DESCRIPTION:Join the Rumi Forum\, the Institute for Religion and Democracy (IRD)\, and the International Center for Religion and Diplomacy (ICRD) for a book talk with journalist and broadcaster Carrie Sheffield. Her recent memoir\, “The Motorhome Prophecies: A Journey of Healing and Forgiveness\,” recounts and explores her relationships in her communities and her family\, and her explorations through the development of her faith across religious communities\, toward the ultimate peace and healing she found in her relationship with God. In a time of great political divisions with deep religious and spiritual undertones reaching from the political to the personal\, we hope to explore how family reconciliation and personal conversion might help us think about our national public life with Carrie. \n \nAuthor \n \nCarrie Sheffield is a columnist and broadcaster in Washington\, DC. She earned a full-tuition Harvard scholarship\, managed billions of dollars in risk at Wall Street firms\, and competed in a Miss USA system beauty pageant. A journalist and former White House correspondent\, she challenged the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and testified as an economic expert before the US Congress. Carrie achieved all this while overcoming a life of extreme poverty and psychological\, spiritual\, and sexual abuse. A recovered agnostic\, Carrie eventually found peace and anchoring in Christianity. \nCarrie shares insights on networks like CNN\, MSNBC\, Fox News\, CBS News\, CNBC\, and BBC. From ABC’s Good Morning America to HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher\, PBS\, and C-SPAN\, she uses her dynamic voice to resonate with audiences of millions. Carrie\, a traveling enthusiast\, visited every continent—including Antarctica—before age 30. She ran the Marine Corps Marathon and won the National Press Club 5K thrice. Named a “Most Inspiring New Yorker” by the popular connection app Bumble\, Carrie is passionate about instilling resilience and joy in others. \nModerator \n \nLuke Nathan Phillips is a writer\, tour guide\, and MC based in Northern Virginia. He has extensive experience in policy\, civic engagement\, and public discourse and has worked with nonprofits\, civic organizations\, magazines\, and research institutions in bipartisan\, reformist\, and conservative spaces since 2017. Luke has organized\, hosted\, and facilitated numerous panels\, debates\, and workshops across the U.S.\, engaging policy experts\, activists\, and young professionals. He also provides customized tours in Washington\, D.C.\, tailored for student and civic groups. \nHis writings have appeared in American Affairs\, The National Interest\, The Dispatch\, The American Conservative\, and RealClearPolicy\, among others. A Braver Angels volunteer since 2017\, he served as Publius Fellow for Public Discourse (2021–2024) and was David Brooks’ scheduler (2019–2021).
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/book-talk-the-motorhome-prophecies-with-carrie-sheffield/
LOCATION:The Institute on Religion and Democracy\, 1023 15th Street NW\, Suite 200\, Washington\, DC\, 20005\, United States
CATEGORIES:Book Talks,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250428T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250428T170000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250408T153738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T222322Z
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SUMMARY:CUA Conference-Passing Down Religious Identity: Faith Community Experiences
DESCRIPTION: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. \n \nThrough 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. \nEvent Video \n\nEvent Photos \n\n		\n		\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n		\n\nOpening Remarks \nWilliam A. Barbieri\, Ph.D.: CUA\, School of Theology & Religious Studies\, Ordinary Professor of Ethics \nKeynote Speaker \nMerylann “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 \nScholars Panel \nModerator: William A. Barbieri\, Ph.D.: CUA\, School of Theology & Religious Studies\, Ordinary Professor of Ethics \n\nJewish: Benji Davis\, Ph.D.: GMU\, Israel Studies\, Teaching and Research Fellow\nMuslim: Fevzi Saraç\, Ph.D.: LSU\, Political Science Department\, Lecturer\nCatholic: Jem Sullivan\, Ph.D.: CUA\, School of Theology & Religious Studies\, Associate Professor of Practice\n\nPractitioners Panel \nModerator: Ibrahim Anli: Rumi Forum\, Executive Director \n\n\n\nJewish: Rabbi Abbi Sharofsky: JCRC\, Director of Intergroup Relations and Rabbi in Residence\nMuslim: Ayse Selma Yilmaz: CORE Education Services\, Mentor\nCatholic: Susan Timoney: CUA\, School of Theology & Religious Studies\, Associate Professor of Practice in Pastoral Studies\n\n\n\nEvent Program \n12:00 – 1:30 pm: Opening Remarks & Lunch \n1:30 – 3:00 pm: Scholars Panel \n3:00 – 3:30 pm: Coffee Break \n3:30 – 5:00 pm: Practitioners Panel \n5:00 – 5:10 pm: Closing Remarks \n5:30 – 7:00 pm: Dinner (Pryzbyla Center\, Great Room C)
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/cua-conference-passing-down-religious-identity-faith-community-experiences/
LOCATION:The Catholic University of America\, Happel Room\, 100 Caldwell Hall\, 620 Michigan Ave.\, NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Religious Literacy,Upcoming Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/CUA-Conference-2.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250424T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250424T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250328T153918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T214041Z
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SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: “Hospitality”
DESCRIPTION:The Rumi Forum held its monthly circle on April 24\, 2025\, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Hospitality” with Hazzan Asa Fradkin\, our study leader from Congregation Beth El.\n \nScriptural Reasoning (SR) enables Christians\, Jews\, and Muslims to engage in a collaborative study of 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 own scriptures\, as well as the development of strong bonds across faith communities. \n  Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction                           Islamic Scripture: Quran \n  \n      Christian Scripture: New Testament               Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible \n  \nThis Month`s Study Leader \n \nHazzan Asa Fradkin has been the Hazzan at Congregation Beth El since 2017. Raised in Baltimore\, Hazzan Fradkin spent his younger years on an ashram outside of Philadelphia\, where he learned yoga and meditation\, practices that he continues to incorporate into and blend with traditional worship. Hazzan Fradkin holds an undergraduate degree in Vocal Studies from the Indiana University School of Music. While at IU\, he became involved in Hillel and graduated with a Certificate in Jewish Studies. In 2007\, he was ordained by the H.L. Miller Cantorial School at JTS\, earning the degrees of Hazzan and Master’s in Sacred Music. He also has extensive experience as a song leader and teacher. He previously served as Hazzan at Temple Shalom in Greenwich\, CT. \nAccording to Hazzan Fradkin\, the most rewarding part of his job is building community and being actively involved in congregational life. He places substantial value on establishing relationships with members of all age groups\, with those experiencing joyous life cycle events and with the sick and bereaved. He strives to “rouse the soul\,” to make prayer a moving and spiritual experience for all congregants.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-hospitality/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Scriptural Reasoning,Upcoming Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-SR-Hospitality-small.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250406T143000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250406T170000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250318T133201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T213830Z
UID:22404-1743949800-1743958800@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Panel Discussion: "Jewish Luminaries of the 20th Century"
DESCRIPTION:On April 6\, 2025\, the Rumi Forum\, in partnership with the Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society (JIDS)\, explored some of the influential modern voices in Judaism\, the oldest tradition in the Abrahamic family that continues to thrive today. \nWe began with reflections from local rabbis on key 20th-century Jewish thinkers who have profoundly shaped contemporary Jewish thought: \n\nRabbi Charles Feinberg on Abraham Joshua Heschel\nRabbi Amelia Wolf on Moshe Shmuel Glasner’s non-political writings\nRabbi Robert Levy on Martin Buber\n\n\n		\n		\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n		\n\nFollowing these presentations\, Rumi Forum`s Executive Director\, Ibrahim Anli\, offered a response\, providing an interfaith perspective. The evening concluded with time for Q&A and\, as always\, the opportunity to engage in meaningful small-group conversations\, learning\, reflecting\, and deepening your understanding of the Jewish faith and its connections to the broader Abrahamic family.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/panel-discussion-tradition-embracing-modernity-jewish-luminaries-of-the-20th-century/
LOCATION:American Turkish Friendship Association\, 1420 Newbrook Dr.\, Chantilly\, VA\, 20152\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250320T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250320T203000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250303T195706Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T162916Z
UID:22320-1742493600-1742502600@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: "Vulnerability"
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum will hold its monthly circle on March 20\, 2025\, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Vulnerability” with Christian Veldboer\, our study leader from the Focolare Foundation.The discussion will be followed by an Iftar. \n \nScriptural 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. \n  Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction                           Islamic Scripture: Quran \n  \n      Christian Scripture: New Testament               Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible \n  \nProgram Outline: \n6:00 – 7:15 pm – Scriptural Reasoning session on “Vulnerability” \n7:20 – 8:30 pm – Iftar dinner and conversations at the table \n \nThis Month`s Study Leader \n \nChristian Veldboer is the Executive Director of the Focolare Foundation\, bringing over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership\, strategic planning\, and project management. He has worked in various leadership roles across North America\, Europe\, Asia\, and South America\, managing international projects and fostering cross-cultural collaboration. His expertise includes organizational development\, operations management\, and program implementation. \nA longtime member of the Focolare Movement\, Christian is committed to promoting dialogue\, unity\, and social impact across cultural and religious divides. Fluent in German\, English\, and Italian\, he has led initiatives that advance inclusivity\, mutual understanding\, and global interconnectedness.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-vulnerability/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Scriptural Reasoning,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250319T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250319T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250314T131809Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T163820Z
UID:22376-1742403600-1742414400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:ICRD Panel: "Radicalization and Religious Responses Post-Global War on Terror"
DESCRIPTION:Studies and practices focused on active radical movements and individual interventions in the long years of the Global War on Terror have led the American national security community and various social movements originating from the Islamic world to spend decades working to understand the political sociology of radicalization and approach the conditions of social breakdown in productive and integrative ways. \nJoin the International Center for Religion and Diplomacy (ICRD) for an exploration of the American national security community’s and the Hizmet Movement’s approaches to social breakdown and ideological and religious radicalization for the 21st Century and their implications for various sorts of domestic political radicalization and political violence in the United States. \n \nThe ICRD will also be livestreaming the event on their YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/live/8Z7UjEegH8k. \nPanelists \n \nAdam Garfinkle is the Founding Editor of The American Interest and a Senior Fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute. He is a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies\, Nanyang Technological University\, Singapore. \nA seasoned scholar and practitioner in the American national security community\, Garfinkle served as principal speechwriter to Secretaries of State Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice (2003–2005). He is the author of several books\, including Jewcentricity: How the Jews Get Praised\, Blamed\, and Used to Explain Nearly Everything (Wiley\, 2009) and Telltale Hearts: The Origin and Impact of the Vietnam Antiwar Movement (St. Martin’s\, 1995)\, the latter recognized as a “Notable Book of the Year” by the New York Times Book Review. \nIbrahim Anli is the Executive Director of the Rumi Forum and a civic entrepreneur with extensive experience in religious reconciliation\, social entrepreneurship\, and interfaith dialogue. A longtime practitioner in the international Hizmet Movement\, he has worked in the Middle East and the United States to promote peacebuilding and conflict resolution. \nHe previously served as diplomacy coordinator at the Journalists and Writers Foundation (JWF) in Ankara and later as Secretary General of the Abant Platform\, JWF’s Istanbul-based intellectual forum. Before joining Rumi Forum in 2019\, he was a visiting researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and taught International Relations and Diplomacy at Tishk International University in Erbil\, Kurdistan. \nModerator \n \nLuke Nathan Phillips is a writer\, tour guide\, and MC based in Northern Virginia. He has extensive experience in policy\, civic engagement\, and public discourse and has worked with nonprofits\, civic organizations\, magazines\, and research institutions in bipartisan\, reformist\, and conservative spaces since 2017. Luke has organized\, hosted\, and facilitated numerous panels\, debates\, and workshops across the U.S.\, engaging policy experts\, activists\, and young professionals. He also provides customized tours in Washington\, D.C.\, tailored for student and civic groups. \nHis writings have appeared in American Affairs\, The National Interest\, The Dispatch\, The American Conservative\, and RealClearPolicy\, among others. A Braver Angels volunteer since 2017\, he served as Publius Fellow for Public Discourse (2021–2024) and was David Brooks’ scheduler (2019–2021).
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/icrd-panel-radicalization-and-religious-responses-post-global-war-on-terror/
LOCATION:Eisenhower Institute\, 818 Connecticut Avenue NW #400\, Washington\, DC\, 20006\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250223T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250223T170000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20250130T041142Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250218T164636Z
UID:22205-1740322800-1740330000@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Panel  Discussion: "Inspiration from the Prophet Muhammad"
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum and our partner\, Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society (JIDS)\, members frequently turn to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)\, peace be upon him\, for inspiration. We submit that for any open-minded member of the family of Abraham/Ibrahim\, Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) life and teachings offer a compelling object of study and contemplation. Yet\, he remains a mystery for far too many in our communities. \n \nOn Sunday\, February 23rd\, we hope to shed light on this inspiring figure. We will bring together a diverse panel to speak from the heart about why this seventh-century man continues to profoundly impact their 21st-century lives. Our speakers include Imad-ad-Dean Ahmad\, a Palestinian American polymath whose areas of expertise range from astrophysics to chaplaincy; Dr. Sevde Arpaci Ayhan\, a scholar in political economics and international development; and Kemal Taban\, who will provide the perspective of a successful young adult who grew up in the DMV. We will also make time for Q&A and small group discussions. The hope is that all in attendance will better understand this incredible person and find their inspiration to study his message independently.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/panel-discussion-inspiration-from-the-prophet-muhammad/
LOCATION:Congregation Beth El\, 8215 Old Georgetown Rd.\, Bethesda\, MD\, 20814\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250109T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250109T183000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20241211T035926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250110T150516Z
UID:22009-1736447400-1736447400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: “Gratitude”
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum held its monthly circle on January 9\, 2025\, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Gratitude” with Rev. Kate Costa\, our study leader from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Alexandria\, VA.\n \nScriptural 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. \n       Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction                        Islamic Scripture: Quran \n  \n      Christian Scripture: New Testament                  Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible \n  \nThis Month`s Study Leader \n \nThe Rev. Kate Costa is the pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (GSLC) in Alexandria\, VA. She is passionate about connection and inclusive community\, outdoor ministry\, empowering youth\, and adapting ministry to our digital and sometimes disparate world. She counsels those with personal needs\, prepares for baptism or marriage and other life passages\, and conducts other special services. She works with the congregation’s leaders to attend to Good Shepherd’s daily happenings and represents GSLC in the community. She has served on the board of Caroline Furnace Lutheran Camp and the Virginia Council of Churches and is currently the chair of the Stewardship and Mission Support Team of the Metro DC Synod of the ELCA. She graduated from the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia and the College of William and Mary. \nShe was ordained in 2012 and previously served as pastor of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Culpeper\, VA\, and associate pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gaithersburg\, MD. She lives in Alexandria with her husband and two children.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-gratitude/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Scriptural Reasoning,Upcoming Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024-SR-Designs-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241028T160000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241028T180000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20241026T163555Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241212T181048Z
UID:21573-1730131200-1730138400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:CFIG Inaugural Panel: Rethinking Religion and Nationalism in the Global Landscape
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum’s Center for Faith\, Identity\, and Globalization was glad to hold its inaugural panel on October 28\, 2024\, “Rethinking Religion and Nationalism in the Global Landscape\,” featuring Mark Juergensmeyer of the University of California\, Santa Barbara\, and Paul Marshall of Baylor University\, and Allison K. Ralph\, Founder & Principal at Cohesion Strategy\, moderated the panel. \nEvent Photos \n\n		\n		\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n		\n\nPanelists \nMark Juergensmeyer is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Global Studies\, Sociology and an affiliate of Religious Studies at the University of California\, Santa Barbara\, where he was the founding director of the Global and International Studies Program and the Orfalea Center for Global and International Studies. He is also a William F. Podlich Distinguished Fellow and Professor of Religious Studies at Claremont McKenna College. He is an expert on religious violence\, conflict resolution\, and South Asian religion and politics. He has published more than three hundred articles and thirty books\, including When God Stops Fighting: How Religious Violence Ends (University of California Press\, 2022)\, God at War: A Meditation on Religion and Warfare (Oxford\, 2021)\, and Terror in the Mind of God (University of California Press\, 4th Edition\, 2017). \nPaul Marshall is the Director of the South and Southeast Asia Action Team at Religious Freedom Institute\, Wilson Professor of Religious Freedom at Baylor University\, Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute’s Center for Religious Freedom\, and Senior Fellow at the Leimena Institute\, Jakarta. He is the author and editor of more than twenty books on religion and politics\, especially religious freedom\, including Persecuted (Thomas Nelson\, 2013)\, Silenced: How Apostasy and Blasphemy Codes Are Choking Freedom Worldwide (Oxford University Press\, 2011)\, Blind Spot: When Journalists Don’t Get Religion (Oxford University Press\, 2009)\, Religious Freedom in the World (Rowman and Littlefield\, 2008). He is the author of several hundred articles\, and his writings have been translated into over twenty languages. He is in frequent demand for lectures and media appearances. \nModerator \nAllison K. Ralph\, Ph.D.\, is the Founder & Principal of Cohesion Strategy. A thought leader in religious pluralism and social cohesion\, Allison brings 20 years of experience in strategy\, research\, and nonprofit and philanthropic leadership. She previously worked at The Aspen Institute Religion & Society Program\, where she served as Assistant\, Associate\, and Interim Director of the program and Director of its Religion and Philanthropy Initiative. She also managed events at the El-Hibri Foundation and The Catholic University of America. She has spoken from the main stage at the International Religious Freedom Summit and the El-Hibri Foundation Peace Awards Ceremony. She has given talks at Upswell\, the United Philanthropy Forum\, and the American Academy of Religion.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/cfig-inaugural-panel-rethinking-religion-and-nationalism-in-the-global-landscape/
LOCATION:Microsoft Innovation & Policy Center\, 901 K Street Northwest\, 11th floor\, Washington\, DC\, 20001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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ORGANIZER;CN="Center for Faith%2C Identity%2C and Globalization (CFIG)":MAILTO:cfig@rumiforum.org
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240229T173000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240229T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20240103T050101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240305T210955Z
UID:20696-1709227800-1709240400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:5th ILF: "Harnessing our Collective Strength through Interreligious Literacy"
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum\, Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington\, and Washington Theological Consortium present the 5th Interfaith Leadership Forum: “Harnessing our Collective Strength through Interreligious Literacy” on February 29\, 2024\, at Virginia Theological Seminary. The program features keynote speaker Shaun Casey\, an interfaith panel\, breakout sessions\, and a closing plenary. \n  \nAbout the Event \nInterreligious literacy can be a means to promote greater religious understanding and appreciation in the context of our pluralistic democracy. Ideally\, by learning about and engaging with the diverse traditions that make up our society\, we learn to respect one another\, thereby reducing fear\, prejudice\, discrimination\, and misunderstanding. In doing so\, we may also enhance our own ethical worldview and advance social cohesion.  \nSocial sectors like Chaplaincy\, Healthcare\, Education\, and Law Enforcement bring people together from various religious and cultural backgrounds. Those who work in and interact with these sectors benefit from the fruits of interreligious literacy when it’s effective at empowering people to be true to their identities and equipping them to engage with diverse perspectives productively. \nThis program is intended to help participants increase their interreligious knowledge and experience\, reflect\, and generate ideas for applying this new learning in their own contexts. \n \nThematic Areas: \n\nChaplaincy\n\n \nSister Laura Lee Seubert\, L.S.J. (Little Sisters of Jesus)\, is celebrating her ruby jubilee of 40 years in religious life. She was born in Cottonwood\, Idaho\, where she attended St. Gertrude Academy. She continued her education at Mankato State University (B.S.) in Mankato\, Minnesota\, the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago\, and the Institute of Integral Human Formation in Montreal\, Quebec. She is a C.P.E. graduate from MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington\, D.C. Sister Laura Lee’s ministry has included inner-city life in Chicago\, traveling circus ministry across the United States and Canada; and contemplative presence\, friendship\, and work in Anchorage\, Alaska; Rome\, Italy; Gallitzin\, Pennsylvania; and Baltimore. She currently serves as a part-time contract chaplain at MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington\, D.C. Sister Laura Lee follows the spirituality of Blessed Charles de Foucauld in being a contemplative presence in the heart of the world. \n\nHealthcare\n\n \nDr. Inez Tuck\, Professor Emeritus at Virginia Commonwealth University\, had a remarkable career in higher education as a university professor\, administrator\, and researcher. In her faculty role\, she focused on healing individuals\, organizations\, families\, and communities and the spirituality\, trauma\, and health of individuals with stigmatized illnesses or who have experienced the homicidal death of family members. She has been a faculty/consultant for a leadership development program sponsored by the National League for Nursing. She has served as a nursing educational consultant in the country of Moldova since 2011. \nShe serves on the Advisory Board for the Institute of Justice Formation and has written several commentaries on the webpage. She was an academic member of the earlier Project BeSTOW at the FBI Academy\, which examined law enforcement officers’ wellness and spiritual health. Dr. Tuck has a diverse educational background with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from NC A&T State University\, a Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from the University of Florida\, and an MBA from the University of Tennessee\, Knoxville. Her PhD in Child Development and Family Relations with a minor in Sociology was earned at the University of North Carolina\, Greensboro. In 2008\, Dr. Tuck completed the Master of Divinity degree at Samuel Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University. \n\nEducation\n\n \nDr. Kate Soules is an education researcher and independent consultant specializing in religious literacy and religious diversity education. She works with organizations to assess the outcomes and effects of their programs so that they can increase the reach and impact of this work. Her research examines the assessment and evaluation of religious literacy education\, teacher professional learning about religion\, and the impacts of religious literacy education for both students and educators. Dr. Soules is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Religion and Education Collaborative (REC)\, an interdisciplinary network of scholars and practitioners working at the intersections of religion and schooling. She was a 2019-2020 recipient of the Religious Literacy Fellowship from the Foundation for Religious Literacy. In 2021\, she received the Emerging Scholar Award from the Religious and Education Special Interest Group at the American Education Research Association. \n\nLaw Enforcement\n\n \nOfficer Kevin Johnson\, Jr. has been the lead officer over the years in strengthening MPD’s relationship with the Islamic community in the District. This took on renewed urgency in 2019 in the aftermath of the Christchurch shooting\, as anti-Islamic incidents spiked across the US. Officer Johnson’s efforts allowed MPD officers to visit and build relationships and trust among all the Islamic mosques and institutions within the District. Leaders in the Muslim and African communities have noted that his work and presence are important and viewed as a significant step towards reducing the community’s fears. \n  \n  \n  \nAbout the Interfaith Leadership Forum \nInterfaith Leadership Forum (ILF) is a DMV area learning platform that aims to make the existing expertise\, capacity\, and scholarship on interfaith engagement available to clergy\, educators\, public servants\, and other interested individuals. The Forum is a partnership of the Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington\, Rumi Forum\, and Washington Theological Consortium. \nILF aims to promote pluralism by convening leaders of various religious\, ethnic\, racial\, cultural\, and gender backgrounds to exchange ideas and generate an action-oriented agenda. It provides a venue where a diverse group of community leaders\, scholars\, clergy\, and public officials can engage in in-depth discussions on shared values and explore ways to harness them for social action. ILF is open to all individuals interested in advancing their interfaith literacy and serving the community as interfaith mobilizers in their professional or individual capacities. \nObjectives \nInterfaith Leadership Forum aims to strengthen interfaith relationships\, literacy\, and leadership by; \n\nEquipping one another with various models of dialogue with distinct ends.\nExperiencing deeper levels of interfaith encounters and dialogue\nStrengthening literacy about other’s faiths and about one’s own\nOvercoming prejudices and misconceptions about other faiths\nEliciting social action through interfaith engagement.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/5th-ilf-harnessing-our-collective-strength-through-interreligious-literacy/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:February 2024,Interfaith Leadership Forum,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240213T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240213T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20240118T164056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240216T144808Z
UID:20866-1707850800-1707858000@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Partner Event: Film Screening and Discussion of “Sevap/Mitzvah”
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum is proud to join the Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society (JIDS) in presenting a dialogue featuring the film by writer and director Sabina Vajrača\, “Sevap/Mitzvah”  on February 13\, 2024 at Washington Hebrew Congregation. This short film is a moving dramatization of a Bosnian Muslim woman who hid a Jewish family during the Holocaust and then was rescued by Jews during the war in Bosnia 52 years later. It is a story about the power of true friendship\, which is one thing organizations like JIDS and the Rumi Forum have tried so hard to foster – true friendships between Muslims and Jews. \nThis film should provide an excellent springboard for a discussion that can help bring our two communities together during a time when many forces would like to split us apart. Come in fellowship\, prepare to be inspired\, and participate in a dialogue that builds on the film to confront issues facing our communities today. \nWatch the Trailer \n\n  \nAwards \n2024 Academy Awards – For Your Consideration Best Live Action Short Film  \n2023 Humanitas Prize \n2023 ECOCINE Film Festival ~ Human Rights Award \n2023 Centre Film Festival ~ Gratitude Award \n2023 Sedicicorto International Film Festival ~ Audience Award \n2023 Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival ~ Jury Award: International Vision Award \n2023 Cordillera International Film Festival ~ Jury Award: Best Female Focus \n2021 Claims Conference ~ Emerging Filmmaker Grant
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/film_screening_and_discussion_sevap_mitzvah/
LOCATION:Washington Hebrew Congregation\,  3935 Macomb St NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20016\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Interfaith Engagement,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231203T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231203T173000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20231129T173042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231205T011026Z
UID:20587-1701615600-1701624600@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to Masjid Muhammad
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum and Sharing Sacred Spaces in visited Masjid Muhammad: The Nation`s Mosque in Washington\, DC. On Sunday\, December 3\, from  3-5:30 pm\, this interfaith visit had representatives from six different religious communities present to explore this sacred space and build understanding and unity across faiths. These congregations are participating 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. \nOur friends at Masjid Muhammad will greet you with warm hospitality. You will learn the story and heart of their religion and its practices\, witness a ritual\, hear from members about their spiritual journey\, walk the space\, break bread together\, and join the dialogue. We want your curiosity and questions and hope you will join us and take this opportunity to meet your neighbors and build foundations for peace. \nThis visit is part of the Interreligious Communities Project (Northern VA/Washington).
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/interreligious-communities-project-site-visit-to-masjid-muhammad/
LOCATION:Masjid Muhammad\, 1519 4th St. NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Religious Literacy,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231026T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231026T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20231003T032407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240319T135417Z
UID:20319-1698345000-1698350400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: “Peacemaking”
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on October 26\, 2023\, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Peacemaking” with our study leader\, The Rev. A. Katherine Grieb\, Ph.D.\, from Virginia Theological Seminary. \nScriptural 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. \n                   Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction                          Islamic Scripture: Quran \n                \n                 Christian Scripture: New Testament                    Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible \n               \nThis Month`s Study Leader \n\nThe Rev. A. Katherine Grieb\, Ph.D.\, became the Center for Anglican Communion Studies (CACS) Director on July 1\, 2021. She has served the Anglican Communion for some twenty years in many roles\, on the Inter-Anglican Theological and Doctrinal Commission (IATDC) and the Inter-Anglican Standing Committee on Unity\, Faith\, and Order (IASCUFO)\, among others. \nDr. Grieb received a B.A. in Philosophy and Religion at Hollins University\, a J.D. from Columbus School of Law at the Catholic University of America\, an M.Div. at Virginia Theological Seminary\, a Ph.D. with Distinction in Theology at Yale University\, and an LL.M. in Canon Law at Cardiff University in Wales. She taught full-time at Virginia Theological Seminary as a Professor of Biblical Interpretation and New Testament from 1994 to 2021 and continues to teach part-time.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-peacemaking/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Scriptural Reasoning,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230502T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230502T203000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20230417T182926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230502T030834Z
UID:19889-1683054000-1683059400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:In-Person Book Talk: "Profiles in Peace"
DESCRIPTION:This new book traces the lives of Israeli Jews and Palestinian Arabs in Israel and Palestine who have dedicated their lives to building peaceful relations among the two peoples and between individual people who seek to live in peace and harmony with one another. These people have acted courageously and consistently in their work for peace. \nIn this book\, the author profiles the lives\, thoughts\, feelings\, and actions of six important peacebuilders — men and women\, secular and religious\, 3 Jewish Israelis: Rabbi Michael Melchior\, Professor Galia Golan\, and Mrs. Hadassah Froman; and 3 Palestinian Arabs: Professor Mohammed Dajani\, Ms. Huda Abuarquob\, and Bishop Munib Younan. \nThe reader learns about their visions for peace and their activities to bring their ideas to fruition in the real world of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Too many people have given up on peace. In contrast\, the people in this book persevere for peace\, thus keeping a flicker of hope alive for Israelis and Palestinians who live in the same land for people everywhere who continue to yearn for a peace agreement to be reached in the region. \nAlliance for Middle East Peace (ALLMEP) is a coalition of over 170 organizations—and tens of thousands of Palestinians and Israelis—building people-to-people cooperation\, coexistence\, equality\, shared society\, mutual understanding\, and peace among their communities. We add stability in times of crisis\, foster cooperation that increases impact\, and build an environment conducive to peace over the long term. \n\n\nAuthor\nRabbi Dr. Ron Kronish is an independent scholar\, writer\, blogger\, lecturer\, teacher\, and mentor. For several years\, he has been a Library Fellow at the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute. From 1991-2015\, he served as the Founder and Director of the Interreligious Coordinating Council in Israel (ICCI)\, Israel’s premier interreligious institution. \nHe was educated at Brandeis University (BA)\, Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion\, and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He is the editor of Coexistence and Reconciliation in Israel: Voices for Interreligious Dialogue (Paulist Press\, 2015) and the author of The Other Peace Process: Interreligious Dialogue\, A View from Jerusalem (Hamilton Books 2017) and Profiles in Peace: Voices of Peacebuilders in the Midst of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (2022). \nHe writes a regular blog for The Times of Israel and is a contributor to The Jerusalem Report. He teaches courses about Interreligious Dialogue and Peacebuilding at the Schechter Institutes for Jewish Studies in Jerusalem\, in the Department for Adult Education\, and at the Drew University Theological School (via Zoom) in Madison\, NJ. \n\nModerator\nRabbi Gerry Serotta served as Executive Director of the Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington from 2014 through 2020\, where he continued his work as a leading voice for interfaith cooperation\, religious freedom\, and human rights. He is the founding rabbi of Shirat HaNefesh from 2008 to 2014. Rabbi Serotta has served as Executive Director of the interreligious organization Clergy Beyond Borders\, Associate Rabbi of Temple Shalom in Chevy Chase\, and Director of the Hillel Foundation at George Washington University. He was the founder and chair of Rabbis for Human Rights – North America\, and he chaired the Board of Chaplains of George Washington University. \nRabbi Serotta has received many awards for his communal work. He was named a Public Policy Conflict Resolution fellow by the University of Maryland School of Law and served as a senior rabbinic scholar in residence at the Religious Action Center of the Union for Reform Judaism. Rabbi Serotta received a master’s degree in Hebrew Literature from Hebrew Union College\, a Master of Sacred Theology from New York Theological Seminary\, and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Hebrew Union College. \n\nDiscussant\nIbrahim Anli is a civic entrepreneur with a career record that bridges nonprofit and academic experience. He was a visiting researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem from 2007-08. Ibrahim joined the Journalists and Writers Foundation’s (JWF) Ankara office as the diplomacy coordinator in 2010. In 2013\, he became the secretary-general of Abant Platform\, JWF’s Istanbul-based forum of intellectuals. Ibrahim Anli was a lecturer and acting chair at the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy at Tishk International University in Erbil in 2016-17. He is currently a volunteer instructor for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University\, a member of the Braver Angels Scholars Council\, and a member of the Public Diplomacy Council of America. \nIbrahim Anli writes opinions in his independent blog and has published 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.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/in-person-book-talk-profiles-in-peace/
LOCATION:Lutheran Church of the Reformation\, 212 East Capitol Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Book Talks,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230411T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230411T204500
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20230322T173838Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T163335Z
UID:19840-1681236000-1681245900@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: "Neighbors"
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum had its monthly circle\, followed by an Iftar\, on April 11\, 2023\, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Neighbors” with our study leader\, Imam Refai Arefin\, from the Islamic Community Center of Potomac. \nScriptural 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 certain 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 own scriptures\, as well as the development of strong bonds across faith communities. \n                  Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction                    Christian Scripture: New Testament \n                \n                           Islamic Scripture: Quran                                  Jewish Scripture: New Testament \n                 \nProgram Outline: \n6:00 – 7:30 pm – Scriptural Reasoning session on “Neighbors” \n7:45 – 8:45 pm – Iftar dinner and conversations at the table \n \nThis Month`s Study Leader \n \nRefai Arefin is the Imam of the Islamic Community Center of Potomac.  He previously served in Connecticut as Imam of the Islamic Association of Greater Hartford for eight years\, in addition to performing duties as the Deputy Chaplain of the Connecticut State Legislature. He has wide exposure to Islamic law and Sharia education. He has taken courses at and been associated with the Al-Azhar University in Cairo and Al-Balqa Applied University in Amman. He studied under various scholars in Fez and Damascus.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-neighbors/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Scriptural Reasoning,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230131T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230201T170000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20230119T043147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230214T042617Z
UID:19655-1675152000-1675270800@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Partner Event: IRF Summit 2023
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum is a proud Convening Partner and Steering Committee Member of the IRF Summit 2023\, which will bring together a broad coalition that passionately supports religious freedom around the globe for a two-day in-person event in Washington D.C.\, January 31st–February 1st. \nTogether we will raise the profile of international religious freedom on a wide variety of issues using an array of mechanisms best suited for each circumstance. The Summit will connect resources and advocates interested in religious freedom and highlight the personal testimonies of survivors of religious persecution and restrictions on religious freedom. \nBringing attention to the plight of religious adherents who are persecuted\, individually and collectively\, will grow the grassroots and global movement for religious freedom. Breakout sessions hosted by the convening partners will go deep on important IRF topics. \nTogether we will gain political support for the global religious freedom movement and encourage civil society\, people of faith\, and governments to take a stand for religious freedom. \nEvent Photos \n[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”406″ display=”basic_thumbnail” thumbnail_crop=”0″] \nRumi Forum welcomed participants at the booth and supported the ‘Documenting After IRF Violations’ panel. \n \nSummit Co-Chairs \n \nDr. Katrina Lantos Swett serves as President of the Lantos Foundation for Human Rights and Justice\, established in 2008 to continue the legacy of her father\, the late Congressman Tom Lantos. Under her leadership\, The Lantos Foundation has rapidly become a distinguished and respected voice on key human rights concerns. Dr. Lantos Swett is the former Chair and Vice-Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom and teaches Human Rights and American Foreign Policy at Tufts University. She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Board of the Committee for Human Rights in North Korea (HRNK) and the Budapest-based Tom Lantos Institute. \nDr. Lantos Swett also serves on the Advisory Board of UN Watch\, the annual Anne Frank Award and Lecture\, and The Warren B. Rudman Center for Justice\, Leadership\, and Public Policy. Lantos Swett earned a Political Science degree from Yale University at the age of 18\, a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California\, Hastings College of the Law\, and a Ph.D. in History from The University of Southern Denmark. \nSam Brownback served as Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom from February 2018 to January 2021. He served as Governor of Kansas from 2011 to 2018. Prior to that he represented his home state in the United States Senate and the House of Representatives. While a member of the Senate\, he worked actively on the issue of religious freedom in multiple countries and was a key sponsor of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. Prior to his public service\, Ambassador Brownback practiced law and taught agricultural law at Kansas State University. He earned a B.S. from Kansas State University and a J.D. from the University of Kansas. \nAmbassador Brownback currently serves as co-chair for the International Religious Freedom Summit and as a Senior Fellow at Open Doors USA. He and his wife Mary have five children and six grandchildren.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/partner-event-irf-summit-2023/
LOCATION:Washington Hilton\, 1919 Connecticut Ave\, N.W.\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220929T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220929T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20220914T180132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221006T160750Z
UID:19149-1664476200-1664481600@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:In-Person Book Talk: "Hearts & Minds"
DESCRIPTION:This in-person book talked about a comparative and qualitative study of an educational phenomenon\, Hizmet\, functioning worldwide. \nDr. Parrillo and Dr. Ansari present a cross-cultural study of Hizmet schools in seven countries of varying histories and ethnic compositions. Some are fairly homogeneous\, while others are longstanding multicultural\, multiracial societies. Some have Muslim-majority populations\, others a small Muslim minority. Through hundreds of interviews with students\, parents\, staff\, and financial supporters\, the authors explored individual perceptions and experiences\, as well as the triad of student/parent/school interaction. Analyzing the commonality of the schools’ structures and processes in different settings\, they offer their insights about the schools’ success in achieving their twin goals of offering quality education and promoting interethnic harmony. \nAuthor: \n \nVincent N. Parrillo is the author of numerous books and journal articles\, some of them translated into ten languages. He is a Professor Emeritus of sociology at William Paterson University and a Fulbright Scholar and Fulbright Senior Specialist. An internationally recognized expert on immigration\, he is the author of two historical novels about Ellis Island: Guardians of the Gate and Defenders of Freedom. His newest book is Hearts and Minds: Hizmet Schools and Interethnic Relations. He is also the executive producer\, writer\, and narrator of six award-winning PBS television documentaries: Ellis Island: Gateway to America; Smokestacks and Steeples: A Portrait of Paterson; Gaetano Federici: The Sculptor Laureate of Paterson; Paterson and Its People; Silk City Artists and Musicians\, and Paterson: A Delicious Destination. \nActive in community theater\, he directed the Sondheim musical Follies in May 2022 for the Players Guild of Leonia\, where he has directed numerous mainstage productions of all genres (comedies\, dramas\, musicals)\, as well as appearing in others. He also directed The Comedy of Errors in July 2015 at Bergen County Overpeck Park.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/in-person-book-talk-hearts-minds/
LOCATION:National Press Club\, 529 14th St NW-13th Floor\, Ballroom\, Washington\, DC\, 20045\, United States
CATEGORIES:Book Talks,Speaker Series,Upcoming Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220324T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220324T194500
DTSTAMP:20260412T222549
CREATED:20220308T205557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220328T145737Z
UID:18593-1648146600-1648151100@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: “Encountering God-2”
DESCRIPTION:Scriptural Reasoning (SR) is a practice where Christians\, Jews\, and Muslims study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet once a month to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a certain 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 own scriptures\, as well as the development of strong bonds across faith communities. \n  \n               Scriptural Reasoning – Introduction                Reading Material: Encountering God – 2 \n                  \nThis Month’s Study Leader\nMargaret A. Johnson\, Ph.D. is a sociologist\, author\, international speaker\, and business owner. She manages the day-to-day operations of Transfirex Translation Services\, Inc.\, a global language translation company. She volunteers as an interfaith activist in several capacities throughout the greater Washington\, DC area to develop strong communities and advocate for peace and understanding among all people. She has moderated and given talks on several panels in the DC area on Islam\, peace-building\, and diversity issues. She co-authored with Ori Z. Soltes\, Preventing Violence and Achieving World Peace from Peter Lang Publishing\, New York\, NY. \nFor over a decade\, Margaret worked as a researcher and academician at the University of Texas at Austin and Oklahoma State University. Her early career focused on change in nonprofit organizations\, small business development\, women and minority entrepreneurship\, and microcredit programs. As part of her consulting work\, she managed the W-BizInsight online survey panel to provide bi-annual metrics on the business confidence of women business owners. She wrote and produced reports for Walmart\, American Express\, Key Bank\, and Women in Public Policy.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-encountering-god-2/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Scriptural Reasoning,Upcoming Events
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END:VCALENDAR