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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241205T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241205T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20241203T190241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241212T163910Z
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SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: “Lament"
DESCRIPTION: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. \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 \nOri 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.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-lament/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Past Events,Scriptural Reasoning
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024-SR-Design_Lament-small.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250109T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250109T183000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20241211T035926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250110T150516Z
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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:20250204T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250205T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250129T213009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250210T191809Z
UID:22174-1738656000-1738774800@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Partner Event: IRF Summit 2025
DESCRIPTION: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. \n \nThe 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. \nWith 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: \n🔹 Empower – Equipping individuals and communities with tools to advance religious freedom\n🔹 Legislate – Exploring legal frameworks and policies that safeguard religious rights\n🔹 Advocate – Strengthening global advocacy efforts and amplifying voices for change\n🔹 Activate – Mobilizing grassroots movements and action-oriented initiatives \nRumi Forum looks forward to welcoming  IRF Summit participants at its booth and the two breakout sessions under the ‘Advocate’ track: \n\nFeb.4: 4:15–5 pm – Voices Behind Bars: Solutions-Based Advocacy for Prisoners of Conscience\n\nAndrea Barron (Torture Abolition and Survivors Support Coalition International)\n\n\nFeb.5: 1:–2 pm – A Bridge to Stability: Building Structural Capacity in Crisis-Affected Countries\n\nArbana Xharra (Alon Ben Meir Institute)\n\n\n\nAs 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.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/partner-event-irf-summit-2025/
LOCATION:Washington Hilton\, 1919 Connecticut Ave\, N.W.\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Past Events,Speaker Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/HELP-FOR-VICTIMS-OF-EARTHQUAKE-IN-SOUTHERN-TURKEY-AND-SYRIA-40.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250213T160000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250213T180000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250131T165323Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250218T154933Z
UID:22220-1739462400-1739469600@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:The Institute of World Politics Panel Discussion: "Abrahamic Peace Initiative"
DESCRIPTION: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. \nAbout the Abrahamic Peace Initiative \nRooted 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. \nSpeakers \n \nThomas 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. \n \nIbrahim 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. \nIbrahim 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.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/the-institute-of-world-politics-panel-discussion-abrahamic-peace-initiative/
LOCATION:The Institute of World Politics\, 1521 16th St NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20036\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Past Events,Speaker Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/HELP-FOR-VICTIMS-OF-EARTHQUAKE-IN-SOUTHERN-TURKEY-AND-SYRIA-38.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250213T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250213T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250130T031356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250218T154724Z
UID:22180-1739471400-1739476800@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: “Forgiveness”
DESCRIPTION: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. \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 \nImam 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. \nOriginally 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. \nImam 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.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-forgiveness/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
CATEGORIES:Interfaith Engagement,Past Events,Scriptural Reasoning
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Forgiveness_small.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250222T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250222T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250225T152509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250624T180655Z
UID:22453-1740247200-1740254400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Quarterly Social-Winter 2025: "Personal Responsibility"
DESCRIPTION: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. \nOur theme for the Winter 2025 Quarterly Social was “Personal Responsibility.” There were some questions to ponder before our gathering: \n\nWhat 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.)\nWhat 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.)\nHow 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?)\nWhat 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?)
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/quarterly-social-winter-2025-personal-responsibility/
LOCATION:Friends Meeting of Washington\, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20008\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Interfaith Engagement,Past Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250223T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250223T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/HELP-FOR-VICTIMS-OF-EARTHQUAKE-IN-SOUTHERN-TURKEY-AND-SYRIA-37.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250301T050000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250329T193000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250404T145901Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T223632Z
UID:22507-1740805200-1743276600@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Ramadan 2025 – An overview of Iftar programs
DESCRIPTION: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. \nWe 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. \nAs 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! \nRamadan Reunion Iftar \n \n \nScriptural Reasoning on “Vulnerability” and Iftar at Virginia Theological Seminary \n \n \nMaryland Community Iftar at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Rockville (UUCR) \n \n \nBraver Angels (Fairfax & DC) “Faith and Depolarization” Panel and Iftar \n \n \nMicrosoft Innovation & Policy Center Iftar \n \n \nNorthern Virginia Community Iftar at the American Turkish Friendship Association (ATFA) \n \n \n2nd Annual Religious Freedom Community Iftar \n \n \nInterreligious Communities Project (ICP) Iftar at Temple Rodef Shalom \n \n \nNew America Initiative “Why the World Needs a New Approach to Peace?” Panel and Iftar
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/ramadan-2025-an-overview-of-iftar-programs/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Interfaith Engagement,Past Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Ramadan-Events-1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250319T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250319T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/new-designs.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250320T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250320T203000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2024-SR-Designs-5.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250406T143000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250406T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/HELP-FOR-VICTIMS-OF-EARTHQUAKE-IN-SOUTHERN-TURKEY-AND-SYRIA-42.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250424T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250424T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250328T153918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T214041Z
UID:22464-1745519400-1745524800@rumiforum.org
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250428T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250428T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250408T153738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T222322Z
UID:22537-1745841600-1745859600@rumiforum.org
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250515T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250515T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250624T181021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250624T181021Z
UID:22691-1747333800-1747339200@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Quarterly Social-Spring 2025: "Breaking Social Norms"
DESCRIPTION: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. \nOur Spring 2025 Quarterly Social theme was “Breaking Social Norms.” There were some questions to ponder before our gathering: \n\nWhat social norms shape your day-to-day life\, community\, or culture?\nDo you agree with them\, or find yourself pushing back?\nHow do responses to social norms differ between Gen Z and other generations?\nWhat are the pros and cons of preserving vs. challenging these norms?\nAnd how do we decide which to uphold and which to leave behind?
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/quarterly-social-spring-2025-breaking-social-norms/
LOCATION:Friends Meeting of Washington\, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20008\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Events,Interfaith Engagement,Past Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/new-designs-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250528T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250528T210000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/People-of-the-Book-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250605T173000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250605T213000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/HELP-FOR-VICTIMS-OF-EARTHQUAKE-IN-SOUTHERN-TURKEY-AND-SYRIA-45.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250706T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250706T201500
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250626T143027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250902T172232Z
UID:22698-1751828400-1751832900@rumiforum.org
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:20250907T123000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250907T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250903T183343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T210439Z
UID:22779-1757248200-1757264400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Find Rumi Forum at the 20th Interfaith Unity Walk!
DESCRIPTION:The Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington invites you to the largest interfaith gathering in the Washington\, DC Metro Area! On Sunday\, September 7th (12:30-5:30pm) Massachusetts Ave. NW becomes a public celebration of shared humanity. The 20th Annual Unity Walk\, hosted by IFC invites people of all faiths and none to walk together\, visit 11 sacred spaces\, and experience powerful moments of music\, food\, culture\, and connection. \n\n\nWhat to Expect: \n\n\nVisit 11+ houses of worship and spiritual centers \n\n\nEngage in meaningful conversations with faith practitioners from 7+ faith and spiritual traditions \n\n\nTry your hand (and feet!) at a folk dance workshop \n\n\nJoin a meaningful service project \n\n\nUnleash your inner photographer with Interfaith Photovoice \n\n\nAnd much more! \n\n\nThe journey begins at Washington Hebrew Congregation (3935 Macomb St NW) and ends at The Islamic Center (2551 Massachusetts Ave NW). \n\nThere are several ways you and your community can join us:\nBring a co-worker\, a friend\, or a group of people to the event\nHelp spread the word through your social media or newsletter\n\nRegister today!
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/find-rumi-forum-at-the-20th-interfaith-unity-walk/
LOCATION:Washington Hebrew Congregation\,  3935 Macomb St NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20016\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/540387123_572853649151875_814498844057932617_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250911T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250911T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250903T185509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T145345Z
UID:22788-1757615400-1757620800@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: Hope
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\, grounded in an ethic of mutual hospitality. 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. \nThis month’s study leader is the Rev. Katherine Grieb\, PhD. Dr. Grieb is the Director of the Center for Anglican Communion Studies and a long-time professor of biblical studies at Virginia Theological Seminary. \nWe would like to thank Rose Castle Foundation for their permission to use www.scripturalreasoning.org content. \nA map of the VTS campus can be found here. \nThe text pack for this session can be found here. \nThis is a hybrid event. The Zoom link for this session will be provided the day of the event.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-hope/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary\, 3737 Seminary Rd.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250925T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250925T210000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250903T190124Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T210623Z
UID:22791-1758823200-1758834000@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Film Screening: Join or Die
DESCRIPTION:Join or Die is a documentary about why you should join a club—and why the fate of America depends on it. The film follows the half-century story of America’s civic unraveling through the journey of legendary social scientist Robert Putnam\, whose groundbreaking Bowling Alone research on the decline of community connections may hold answers to today’s democratic crisis. Alongside influential voices such as Hillary Clinton\, Pete Buttigieg\, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy\, Eddie Glaude Jr.\, Raj Chetty\, and Priya Parker\, as well as grassroots groups building community across the country\, Putnam explores three urgent civic questions: What makes democracy work? Why is American democracy in crisis? And\, most importantly\, what can we do about it?
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/film-screening-join-or-die/
LOCATION:Friends Place on Capitol Hill\, 515 East Capitol Street Southeast\, Washington\, DC\, 20003\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/mqdefault.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251005T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251005T203000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250903T190436Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T210903Z
UID:22796-1759687200-1759696200@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Abraham’s Bridge: Film Screening and Talk with director Ellie Pierce
DESCRIPTION:Abraham’s Bridge documents an experiment in intentional proximity in the American Midwest. The film chronicles the construction of a mosque\, synagogue\, church\, and interfaith center on 38 acres in Omaha: connected by a circular wooden bridge\, a vast donation garden\, and a quietly disruptive vision\, Tri-Faith seeks to cross boundaries and build new forms of engagement. They must also confront difficult questions about the limits of the Abrahamic model\, declining affiliation of youth\, and the rising currents of division. After October 7\, 2023\, they can no longer avoid the topic of Israel/Palestine and must find a way forward. \nThis short film is a place-based\, visual case study which connects the particular and universal in its depiction of lived religion. Here\, religion is expressed through architecture\, agriculture\, and through daily relational activity. While the story is distinctly American\, told through the unique lens of Omaha\, as a case study of co-location it facilitates critical reflection and comparative exploration–whether in analogous spaces like the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi\, the House of One in Berlin (now under construction)\, or in other spaces of unplanned\, unintentional\, or unwanted religious proximity. \nAbraham’s Bridge makes use of the affective\, sensorial\, and aesthetic capacities of film while providing multiple points of access for discourse and discussion. It is intended for both academic and generalist audiences. \nBio of Producer/Director: \nElinor (Ellie) Pierce is the research director at the Pluralism Project at Harvard University\, a writer\, consultant\, and independent filmmaker. Ellie contributed to the award-winning multimedia project On Common Ground: World Religions in America\, co-edited World Religions in Boston\, and helped develop the Webby Award-winning pluralism.org website. She is the author of the case collection Pluralism in Practice and co-edited two volumes in interfaith studies. Ellie collaborated on two feature length films: Acting on Faith\, about women and religious activism and Fremont\, U.S.A.\, documenting religious diversity in a California city; she co-produced two short films and is the producer/director and assistant editor of the award-winning documentary Abraham’s Bridge. Ellie has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from Macalester College\, and a master’s degree from the Harvard Divinity School.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/abrahams-bridge-film-screening-and-talk-with-director-ellie-pierce/
LOCATION:The Festival Center\, 1640 Columbia Rd NW 2nd Floor\, Washington\, DC\, DC\, 20009\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/images.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251008T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251008T203000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20250903T185017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T205825Z
UID:22782-1759948200-1759955400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Film Screening: A Sacred Piece of Home
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum and Focolare Forum for Dialogue are delighted to invite those of you in the DC area to a four-part screening of the PBS documentary A Sacred Piece of Home.\n\nEach episode of A Sacred Piece of Home explores how people of many faiths have brought their sacred traditions and architecture to the D.C. region. From soaring minarets to hidden chapels\, each episode is a moving tribute to the spiritual and cultural mosaic that defines the city many of us call home.\n\nAfter each screening\, we will join the film’s creators in dialogue\, continuing our shared commitment to understanding and connection across traditions.\n\nDates: Sept 10 | Oct 8 | Nov 12 | Dec 10\n\nTime: 6:30–8:30 PM\n– Refreshments at 6:30 PM\n– Screening at 7:00 PM\, followed by discussion\nVenue: Spaces\, 609 H Street NE\, Washington\, DC 20002\nWhat to expect:\n– A 40-minute episode each evening\n– A conversation with the creators and community leaders\n– Time to connect with neighbors across traditions\nRSVP: Please use this link to let us know you’re coming so we can plan refreshments.\n\n\n\nThis is an opportunity not only to enjoy a powerful documentary series but also to carry forward the spirit of interfaith encounter and collaboration that inspired Sustainable Peace Networks.\n\nAll are welcome—please feel free to share this invitation with friends and colleagues in the DC area.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/partner-event-focolare-forum-for-dialogue/
LOCATION:Spaces\, 609 H Street NE\, DC\, 20002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/541171823_1132515282113437_4808199947494857034_n-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251023T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251023T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20251008T172450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T211205Z
UID:22843-1761244200-1761249600@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: Creativity
DESCRIPTION:THIS IS A HYBRID EVENT. Join us in person or on Zoom. The Zoom link for this session will be provided the day of the event. \nScriptural 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. \nThis month’s study leader will be Rabbi Greg Harris. \nRabbi Greg Harris is Senior Rabbi at Congregation Beth El of Montgomery County. He has a passion for social justice and interfaith activities. Beyond his many responsibilities at the congregation\, Rabbi Harris is a Past President of the Washington Board of Rabbis\, Founding Chair of the Pastoral Care Committee at the Hebrew Home of Greater Washington\, and has served as an active member of the Boards for Camp Ramah in New England\, the Community & Global Impact Committee of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington (JFGW) and Interfaith Works\, a non-profit organization working with at-risk families in Montgomery County. \nRabbi Harris was ordained at the Jewish Theological Seminary where he was the recipient of the Dr. Michael Higger Prize in Talmud. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from The American University in Washington\, D.C. and later a certificate degree in Nonprofit Management from the American Jewish University in Los Angeles. He is the founding chairperson of the Tomorrow Fellowship Jewish Communal Leadership Program. He is also a past recipient of the Matthew H. Simon Rabbinic Leadership Award from JFGW. Rabbi Harris has been a guest lecturer at the Washington College of Law\, the National Defense University and the National Guard Bureau as well as a guest on The Kojo Nnambi Show and other press outlets. In his free time\, he is learning to play guitar and has run the Marine Corp Marathon twice. He was raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. He and his wife Sarah are proud of their five adult children. \nWe would like to thank Rose Castle Foundation for their permission to use www.scripturalreasoning.org content. \nA map of the VTS campus can be found here. \nThe text pack for the session can be found here.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-creativity/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_1113457663_186067026277_1_original-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251029T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251029T190000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20251008T172112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T054600Z
UID:22838-1761757200-1761764400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:CFIG Panel:Fethullah Gülen’s Legacy&the Hizmet Movement’s Forward Trajectory
DESCRIPTION: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. \nModerated 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. \nAs 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. \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\nPanelists\n \nOri 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. \nHe 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). \n \nAnwar 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. \nDr. 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). \nPanelists\n \nLyndsey 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. \nDr. Eksili holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from Liberty University\, as well as certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy\, Mindfulness\, and Clinical Trauma.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/cfig-special-panel-fethullah-gulens-legacy-the-hizmet-movements-forward-trajectory/
LOCATION:University of Southern California Capital Campus\, 1771 N Street Northwest\, Washington\, DC\, DC\, 20036\, United States
CATEGORIES:Panel Discussions,Past Events,Speaker Series
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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:20251106T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251106T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20251105T181033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T211334Z
UID:22890-1762453800-1762459200@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: Stewardship
DESCRIPTION:Let us sit together to discuss stewardship.\n\n\n\nThis is a hybrid event. The Zoom link for this session will be provided the day of the event. \nScriptural 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. \nOur study leader for this session will be Mother Sara Palmer: \nMother Sara was chosen to serve as the 9th and first female Rector of All Souls’ Episcopal Church in Washington DC. She began working at All Souls on January 2nd\, 2024. \nHer first career in England was as a teacher of French and German in a Middle and High School near London. God called her to become a Spanish-speaking church-planting missionary with the Church of England in Bolivia\, having studied at Bible and then Missionary College in England. She worked with an English family to start a new congregation in Santa Cruz\, the second largest city in Bolivia\, where she preached\, taught Bible to the women and helped lead the Sunday School and youth group. She met and married her husband David\, a missionary with the American Episcopal Church in La Paz. After three years\, they moved to the USA. The newly planted congregation Cristo\, Luz del Mundo\, continues to grow and has their own building and land. \nMother Sara tutored privately in Spanish and French in the USA\, then taught Spanish at college level in Rochester\, NY and Charlotte\, North Carolina. She was hired by the Diocese of North Carolina as lay Hispanic Missioner to help four small rural congregations plant a Latino congregation in Salisbury\, NC. This congregation thrived and grew from 2002 to 20012 when the funding stopped. She entered the ordination process and attended the Virginia Theological School where she was awarded her M.Div. magna cum laude in 2010. After ordination to the priesthood in 2011\, Mother Sara worked for six years as Assistant to the Rector in High Point\, NC; she served as Rector of Holy Trinity in Oxford\, Ohio\, for four years\, starting various ministries and reaching out to students at Miami University; she was Senior Associate Rector at St Mary’s\, Arlington for three plus years\, before being hired at All Souls in DC. \nShe is passionate about sharing God’s love and helping people grow in their relationship with God. She is delighted to have opportunities to speak French and Spanish\, and to engage in interfaith dialogue. She is active in supporting social justice issues and international outreach. \nBefore this\, she served as Senior Associate Rector at St. Mary’s in Arlington\, VA where she had clergy oversight of Pastoral Care\, Spiritual Formation\, and the relationship with the Santa Maria congregation. She served as Assistant to the Rector at Saint Mary’s\, High Point\, North Carolina from 2010 to 2016\, and then as Rector of Holy Trinity in Oxford\, Ohio from 2016 to 2020. At Holy Trinity\, she led the outreach to students at Miami University\, leading a Bible study for them. \nMother Sara completed her Master of Divinity degree at Virginia Theological Seminary in 2010. She and her husband David\, a music professor and musician\, met in Bolivia where they served as church-planting missionaries with the Anglican Church. They have one adult son\, Steven who lives in Ohio. \nWe would like to thank Rose Castle Foundation for their permission to use www.scripturalreasoning.org content. \nA map of the VTS campus can be found here. \nThe text pack for this session can be found here.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-stewardship/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251118T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251118T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20251203T163505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T055029Z
UID:23006-1763485200-1763485200@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:2025 Annual Gala and Dialogue Awards Ceremony
DESCRIPTION:This week\, Rumi Forum hosted its 2025 Annual Gala & Dialogue Award Ceremony\, honoring a visionary leader in interreligious understanding: Dr. John Borelli\, Special Assistant for Catholic Identity and Dialogue to the President of Georgetown University.\n\n\n\nThis year’s ceremony was also a special celebration of the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate\, the landmark #Vatican II declaration that transformed #Catholic relations with other faith communities and laid crucial foundations for modern #interreligious dialogue.\n\n\n\nWe were grateful to honor Dr. Borelli’s lifelong commitment to building bridges—and to commemorate a document that continues to inspire mutual respect\, understanding\, and cooperation across traditions.\n\n\n\nThank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful evening!
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/2025-annual-gala-and-dialogue-awards-ceremony/
LOCATION:Meridian House\, 1630 Crescent Pl NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WP-Header-Upload.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251120T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251120T210000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20251203T162427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T171153Z
UID:22996-1763665200-1763672400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Rumi Forum Young Professionals Friendsgiving Dinner
DESCRIPTION:Rumi Forum Young Professionals Friendsgiving Dinner\n\n\n\nWhat a beautiful evening!\n\n\n\nThank you to everyone who joined us for our Friendsgiving Dinner on Thursday\, November 20th. The night was filled with good food\, live music\, warm conversations\, and heartfelt gratitude — everything Friendsgiving is meant to be.\n\n\n\nWe’re grateful for the young professionals\, community members\, and friends who came together to celebrate friendship\, connection\, and the spirit of Thanksgiving.\n\n\n\nHere’s to more gatherings that bring people closer\, nurture community\, and remind us of the power of gratitude.\n\n\n\nUntil next time!
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/rumi-forum-friendsgiving-dinner/
LOCATION:Friends Meeting of Washington\, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20008\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251125T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251125T180000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20251203T162859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T171117Z
UID:22999-1764093600-1764093600@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Rumi Forum Thanksgiving Programming
DESCRIPTION:Coming together in gratitude\n\n\n\nThis Thanksgiving season\, Rumi Forum was grateful to join hands with diverse faith communities to host two multifaith celebrations—one in Maryland and one in Virginia.\n\n\n\nBoth gatherings were powerful moments of shared witness\, renewed community bonds\, and heartfelt appreciation for neighbors of all backgrounds.\n\n\n\nWith music\, reflections\, and warm conversations\, these celebrations reminded us that gratitude deepens when shared across traditions.\n\n\n\nHeartfelt thanks to all our partners\, clergy\, musicians\, volunteers\, and friends who made these evenings possible. May the spirit of connection and\nmutual understanding continue to guide us forward.\n\n\n\nHere’s to gratitude\, community\, and the beauty of coming together.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/rumi-forum-thanksgiving-events-2025/
LOCATION:Saint Bernadette Catholic Church 7600 Old Keene Mill Rd.\, Springfield\, 7600 Old Keene Mill Rd\, Springfield\, VA\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260129T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260129T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20260114T194652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260131T214624Z
UID:23067-1769711400-1769716800@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: Abraham's Journey
DESCRIPTION:Kick off the new year with the Rumi Forum!\n\n\n\nThis is a hybrid event. The Zoom link for this session will be provided the day of the event. \nScriptural 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. \nOur study leader for this session will be Mother Sara Palmer! \nWe would like to thank Rose Castle Foundation for their permission to use www.scripturalreasoning.org content. \nA map of the VTS campus can be found here. \nThe text pack for this session can be found here. \nThis is a hybrid event. The Zoom link for this session will be provided the day of the event.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-abrahams-journey-2/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260212T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260212T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T183131
CREATED:20260210T151606Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T171103Z
UID:23083-1770921000-1770926400@rumiforum.org
SUMMARY:Scriptural Reasoning: Beginnings
DESCRIPTION:Explore how the story of creation is told in Christianity\, Judaism\, and Islam!\n\n\n\nThis is a hybrid event. The Zoom link for this session will be provided the day of the event. \nScriptural 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. 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. \nAbout the Study Leader: Rabbi Marc Israel \nBased on the Torah’s dictate to love your neighbor as yourself\, Rabbi Israel works to create vibrant and inclusive communities within the congregation\, across Rockville\, and throughout the world. He is an active member of Jews United for Justice and Action In Montgomery and serves on the J Street clergy network executive council. Rabbi Israel received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan in 1992 and was ordained a rabbi in 1998 by Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion. Since June 2019\, Marc Israel has been the rabbi of Tikvat Israel in Rockville\, MD. \nWe would like to thank Rose Castle Foundation for their permission to use www.scripturalreasoning.org content. \nA map of the VTS campus can be found here. \nThe text pack for this session can be found here \nThis is a hybrid event. The Zoom link for this session will be provided the day of the event.
URL:https://rumiforum.org/event/scriptural-reasoning-beginnings/
LOCATION:Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center\, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir.\, Alexandria\, VA\, 22304\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rumiforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/WP-Header-Upload-4.jpg
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