Rumi Forum

In-Person Book Talk: "Profiles in Peace"
2023-05-02 19:00 - 20:30 UTC | Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 212 East Capitol Street NE, Washington, DC, 20003, United States
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.
In 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.
The 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.
Alliance 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.

Author
Rabbi 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.
He 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).
He 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.

Moderator
Rabbi 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.
Rabbi 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.

Discussant
Ibrahim 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.
Ibrahim 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.

Exhibit: "Un-Muted - The Silent Voices of Political Persecution in Turkey"
2023-05-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Friends Meeting of Washington, 2111 Decatur Pl. NW, Washington, DC, 20008, United States
This exhibit and presentation was a powerful and moving visual experience of a highly harsh reality happening in Turkey now.
The Hizmet people are seekers of peace and justice; they are committed to education and the eradication of poverty throughout the world. The government, led by President Erdogan, has evolved into a brutal, military regime that tortures and imprisons the Hizmet people linked by membership or affiliation with a peaceful and liberal Islamic faith expression. Under the guise of Islamic law, President Erdogan has misused political power to isolate and eliminate opposition, resulting in quashing voices of dissent in a country once a bastion of liberal democracy. Many Hizmet and Kurdish people have lost their lives at the hands of this injustice.
The exhibit consists of around 40 pieces and their detailed stories, such as Kurdish political prisoner Garibe Gezer who was sexually harassed, tortured, and killed in jail; dismissed professor Haluk Savas who was denied his right to travel to get medical treatment for cancer and eventually died, 11-year-old Kurdish girl Cemile Cagin who was killed by a sniper during a curfew and whose dead body had to be kept in a freezer by her mother for days, and Ahmet Burhan Atac, a young boy who died of cancer before his mother was denied her right to travel with him to get treatment.
The artifacts in this exhibit were generously donated by the families of voices silenced by torture, persecution, and death. We are grateful for this opportunity to unmute their voices and share their stories through this presentation.
Event Video

Event Photos
Co-Sponsored by:
Advocates of Silenced Turkey`s mission is (1) to address all human rights violations in Turkey regarding civil, political, economic, social, and cultural as contained in the basic human rights documents; (2) to prevent genocide, crime against humanity, arbitrary detention, torture and ill-treatment, and discrimination and to defend the right to life, rule of law, right to privacy, freedom of expression, freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, freedom of associations, and (3) to utilize all human rights advocacy tools, mechanisms, and systems that can possibly be used to protect and promote the human rights of those whose voices are being silenced in Turkey and beyond.
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Scriptural Reasoning: "Noah"
2023-05-18 18:30 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on May 18, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Noah” with our study leader, Rabbi Chana Leslie Glazer, from Temple Brith Achim (King of Prussia, PA).
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a 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.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Christian Scripture: New Testament

Islamic Scripture: Quran Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

Rabbi Chana Leslie Glazer is the Interim Rabbi of Temple Brith Achim (King of Prussia, PA) and is a pluralistic Jewish spiritual leader and educator of all ages. Rabbi Glazer was raised in the Reform and Conservative movements and was ordained by the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (RRC) in 2013. She has led Reconstructionist, Conservative, Traditional and pluralistic, non-denominational congregations, including serving as a college-campus rabbi with Hillel. She has also spent significant time studying with the Jewish Renewal movement – over more than ten years. She brings wisdom from all these communities into her rabbinic work. Most recently, before TBA, Rabbi Glazer served as spiritual leader of Congregation Adat Reyim of Springfield, VA.
Rabbi Glazer served as the spiritual leader of Congregation Am Haskalah of the Lehigh Valley, PA (Reconstructionist); Beth Sholom Synagogue of Memphis, TN (Conservative); and Beth Israel Synagogue of Roanoke, VA (Traditional). She was the Chaplain for the Jewish Community at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, serving as the campus rabbi, Hillel director, and director of Jewish Life. She also spent a year as a student chaplain at the Abramson Center for Jewish Life of North Wales, PA, a senior living residence – an invaluable experience working with Jewish elders.
Before that, Rabbi Glazer spent more than a decade working as a journalist, foreign correspondent, and editorial manager, most of which was served covering Latin America and the Caribbean. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Cornell University with an interdisciplinary degree in Government, International Relations, and Latin American Studies.

4th ILF: Interfaith Engagement with the Environmental Crisis
2023-05-31 18:30 - 20:45 | Zoom
Rumi Forum, Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington, and Washington Theological Consortium present the 4th Interfaith Leadership Forum: “Interfaith Engagement with the Environmental Crisis” on May 31, 2023. The program features keynote speaker Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb, an interfaith panel, and an opportunity for small group dialogues.
Event Photos

Keynote by:
Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb, D.Min. started at Adat Shalom when the synagogue was only eight years old, and meeting at the JCC – he was still in rabbinic school, Founding Rabbi Sid was part-time, Shabbat morning services were every other week, and cell phones hardly existed. Upon ordination from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in 1997, he became its first full-time rabbi and has joyfully served here ever since.
Rabbi Fred currently serves as Chair of the National Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life and is on the boards of the National Religious Partnership for the Environment and Interfaith Power and Light (The Regeneration Project). Fred has also been deeply engaged in social and racial justice (including Jews United for Justice), multi-faith (a past board member of the Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington), and Israeli-progressive (J Street and more) efforts.
Panelists:
Growing up in Alabama surrounded by woods and creeks, Sevim Kalyoncu discovered at an early age that her most direct connection with God came through nature. To this day, she still finds peace in natural surroundings and holds a deep concern regarding humankind’s responsibility as vicegerent of the earth. She is involved with multiple local climate action groups and is dedicated to helping educate youth about the importance of environmental awareness for spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. She holds a B.S. from Georgetown and a master’s degree from the University of Chicago and has many years of nonprofit experience in Washington, DC, and the San Francisco Bay Area. She is also a naturalist interpreter and a yoga instructor.
Rev. Dr. Gilson Waldkoenig teaches methods for understanding ministry in context and applied theology rooted in the resilient grace of Christ. As Director of the Town and Country Church Institute (TCCI), Dr. Waldkoenig teaches courses in rural and Appalachian ministry and is sought out by synods, judicatories, and other seminaries for consultation and teaching. His research has included multiple-church ministries, environmental ministries, and a variety of other topics, all reflecting his practical theology of “means of grace and scenes of grace.” He belongs to St. James Lutheran Church in Gettysburg. His books include Cooperating Congregations and Symbiotic Community; The Lost Land and his reviews appeared in Agricultural History, Journal of Appalachian Studies, Journal for Study of Religion, Nature & Culture, Christian Century, and others.
Dr. Rajwant Singh is the founder and President of EcoSikh, a global organization working on the climate crisis facing the planet. It has engaged the worldwide Sikh community to take action on environmental issues. He also co-founded the National Sikh Campaign, an initiative to inform Americans about the Sikh identity. Dr. Rajwant Singh is also the Chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education (SCORE), an organization that has worked with the White House and the members of the United States Congress. He organized a large gathering of the Sikhs to interact with political and elected leaders at Capitol Hill. He was instrumental in organizing the first-ever celebration of Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary at the White House in 2009.
Kristin Barker is co-founder and director of One Earth Sangha whose mission is to cultivate a Buddhist response to ecological crises. She is a graduate of Spirit Rock’s Community Dharma Leader program and now teaches with the Insight Meditation Community of Washington. As a co-founder of White Awake, Kristin has been supporting white people since 2011 with a Dharma approach to uprooting racism in ourselves and in our world. With a background in software engineering as well as environmental management, she has worked at several international environmental organizations. She is a GreenFaith Fellow and serves on the advisory board of Project Inside Out. Kristin was born and raised in northern New Mexico and currently lives in Washington DC, the traditional lands of the Piscataway people.
4th ILF is part of “IFC Days of Unity”:

The Interfaith Leadership Forum (ILF) presents its 4th program during Days of Unity, entitled “Interfaith Engagement with the Environmental Crisis”. Rumi Forum and its partners are glad to be collaborating with the Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington (IFCMW) for the 4th ILF, which coincides with their 6th Annual Days of Unity during the month of May 2023.
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Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to Chinmaya Somnath
2023-06-15 19:00 - 21:30 | Chinmaya Somnath, 4350 Blue Spring Dr., Chantilly, VA, 20151, United States
Rumi Forum and Sharing Sacred Spaces, together with 6 other faith communities, visited Chinmaya Somnath Hindu Ashram and Temple in Chantilly, VA!
At the Hindu Ashram and Temple, attendees were greeted by our colleagues with warm hospitality. Then the participants did an in-depth tour of the space revealing the blueprint of Hindu architectural design, followed by a conversation about their teachings, spiritual journeys, and dialogue over a delicious meal.
Chinmaya Mission follows the Vedic teacher-student tradition and makes available the ageless wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, the knowledge of universal oneness, providing the tools to realize the wisdom in one’s life. As a spiritual movement that aims for inner growth at individual and collective levels.
Click here to learn the etiquette for each sacred space here.
About the event:
This will be an interfaith visit with representatives from at least 6 different religions present to explore the sacred space of this Hindu Ashram. This visit is run by Sharing Sacred Spaces and is part of the Interreligious Communities Project taking place in Northern Virginia. There will be 7 visits to different sacred spaces as part of this program. There will be 7 “experiences” in fact; not just visits. We go deep into the architectural design of each space which opens up new avenues for connecting the material and the spiritual. Members of each congregation will also share their worldview, spiritual journeys, and history. We then share a meal and dialogue. Join us for one visit or all of them!
About this community:

Chinmaya Somnath serves a growing community in Fairfax and Loudon counties of Northern Virginia. It is a Hindu organization that follows the Vedic teacher-student tradition and makes available the ageless wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, the knowledge of universal oneness, providing the tools to realize the wisdom in one’s life.
Vedanta, the essential core of Hinduism, is the universal science of life, relevant to all people of all backgrounds and faiths as a way to enhance one’s faith. As a spiritual movement that aims for inner growth at individual and collective levels, the mission offers a wide array of Vedanta study forums, promotes Indian classical art forms, and operates numerous social service projects. To date, millions worldwide have benefited directly or indirectly from Chinmaya Mission’s offerings.

Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to St. Bernadette Catholic Church
2023-07-16 18:00 - 20:30 | St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, VA, 22152, United States
Join Rumi Forum and Sharing Sacred Spaces for a visit to St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Springfield, VA! This will be an interfaith visit with representatives from at least 6 different religions present to explore the sacred space of this Catholic Church.
“Saint Bernadette is a vibrant, growing community whose generosity in time and talent is noted in outreach and donations. We seek to be the visible presence of Jesus Christ in the context of the daily life of our community.”
“Our congregation tends to be more contemporary with a dedication to the teachings of Vatican II, with an emphasis on liturgy and community development. An atmosphere of reverent silence is customary, as we believe that Jesus is truly present in the hosts which we consecrate at Mass, which are kept in the gold tabernacle behind the altar.”
Click here to learn the etiquette for each sacred space here.
About the event:
This will be an interfaith visit with representatives from at least 6 different religions present to explore the sacred space of this Catholic Church. This visit is run by Sharing Sacred Spaces and is part of the Interreligious Communities Project taking place in Northern Virginia. There will be 7 visits to different sacred spaces as part of this program. There will be 7 “experiences” in fact; not just visits. We go deep into the architectural design of each space which opens up new avenues for connecting the material and the spiritual. Members of each congregation will also share their worldview, spiritual journeys, and history. We then share a meal and dialogue. Join us for one visit or all of them!
About this community:

Saint Bernadette is a vibrant, growing community whose generosity in time and talent is noted in outreach and donations. We seek to be the visible presence of Jesus Christ in the context of the daily life of our community. Our congregation tends to be more contemporary with a dedication to the teachings of Vatican II, with an emphasis on liturgy and community development. An atmosphere of reverent silence is customary, as we believe that Jesus is truly present in the hosts which we consecrate at Mass, which are kept in the gold tabernacle behind the altar.
We are also a principal participant in ECHO (Ecumenical Community Helping Others), a local non-profit supported both by ecumenical and interreligious congregations. We participate in other programs such as refugee resettlement, supporting missions, and feeding programs.

Scriptural Reasoning: "Non-Violent Responses to Hatred"
2023-08-24 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on August 24, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Non-Violent Responses to Hatred” with our study leader, Rev. Dr. David Milam from Loudon Interfaith Bridges, on August 24, 2023.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s own scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

Christian Scripture: New Testament Islamic Scripture: Quran

This Month`s Study Leader

Rev. Dr. David Milam retired as the Pastor of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Purcellville, Virginia, having served there from 2005 to 2021. In his retirement, he is becoming the Executive Director of Loudoun Interfaith Bridges. This two-decade-old organization links Loudoun faith communities through relational dialogue toward a “good and equitable society.” Dave hopes the organization can focus on social action impacting the diverse, multicultural Loudoun County for equity and greater inclusion. He also looks forward to becoming a Parish Associate at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington.
Ordained in 1985, Rev. Milam previously served churches in Michigan, California, and New York. He is a Parish Associate at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC. He has a D. Min. from San Francisco Theological Seminary, earning the dissertation prize in 1999 for his work called “Neighbor Language.” His M. Div. degree came from Princeton Theological Seminary, a Master’s degree from Wheaton College, and a Bachelor`s from San Diego State University.

Partner Event: Unity Walk 2023
2023-09-10 12:30 - 17:30 | Washington Hebrew Congregation, 3935 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC, 20016, United States
Rumi Forum is a co-sponsor of IFC’s annual Unity Walk, a public demonstration of love and support for all who live in our region.
This year’s walk will occur on Sunday, September 10th, from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. The Walk will begin at Washington Hebrew Congregation (3935 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC) and end at the Islamic Center of Washington, DC (2551 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC). For the full program, please click here.
Walk with participants of all ages to visit different houses of worship in upper Northwest DC to learn about and experience diverse faith traditions. There will be additional opportunities to engage with fellow walkers through moderated speed dialogues, a family activity hosted by the Center for Children and Theology, an intergenerational storytelling workshop hosted by the Multifaith Storytelling Institute, an interfaith environmental workshop hosted by Interfaith Power and Light-DMV, and more! Come by yourself or bring friends to celebrate the wonderful diversity in our region.

Partner Event: SDGs Conference 2023
2023-09-20 10:00 - 16:00 | Zoom
In the margins of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the Journalists and Writers Foundation (JWF) and its 36 Global Partners from 24 countries are organizing the hybrid SDGs Conference 2023 to convene world leaders, diplomats, civil society members, journalists, and academics to discuss contemporary impediments for the timely and effective implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The SDGs Conference 2023, formerly known as the UNGA Conference, is the flagship event of the Journalists and Writers Foundation, creating a platform for diverse stakeholders to discuss the Global Agenda 2030, offer innovative solutions, strategies, and policy recommendations to advance the culture of peace, human rights, and sustainable development. As 2023 marks the 8th annual SDGs Conference, this global event gathered over 150 high-level speakers across the globe, forming an interdisciplinary group of distinguished panelists to discuss a particular set of agenda over three-panel sessions and propose a framework for action for the full and effective implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
As a result of the diligent review of the 2022-2023 agenda items and priority working areas of diverse UN agencies and offices, as well as world-renowned international summits, the SDGs Conference 2023 will address:
(1) Building a New Momentum Towards the 2030 Deadline for the SDGs,
(2) Press Freedom as an Instrument to Defend Human Rights for All, and
(3) Widening Gap between Erosion of Democracy and Rise of Autocracy.
in the margins of the UNGA 78th Session on Wednesday, 20 September 2023 from 10 am to 4 pm.
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Scriptural Reasoning: “Parent-Child Relationships"
2023-09-21 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on September 21, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Parent-Child Relationships” with our study leader, Ibrahim Anli, from Rumi Forum.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

Christian Scripture: New Testament Islamic Scripture: Quran

This Month`s Study Leader

Ibrahim 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 in 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 American University, a member of the Braver Angels Scholars Council, and a member of the Public Diplomacy Council of America.

Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to The Firefly House
2023-10-15 15:00 - 17:30 | McLaren Sargent Pavilion, 5660 Heming Ave., Springfield, VA, 22151, United States
On Sunday, October 15th, 2023, Rumi Forum and Sharing Sacred Spaces had a site visit to The Firefly House located in Springfield, VA. This interfaith visit had representatives from six different religions present to explore this sacred space and build understanding and unity across faiths.
The site visit took place with the Wiccan community at the McLaren Sargent Pavilion in Lake Accotink Park, where the participants were greeted with tea, snacks, and warm hospitality. We learned about the religion’s story, heart, and practices, observed a ritual, heard from members about their spiritual journey, walked the space, and engaged in dialogue.

Partner Event: IFLC 2023 Washington, DC - "The Most Beautiful Story" Musical
2023-10-21 19:00 - 21:30 | Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 East Campus Dr. , VA, Alexandria, 22311, United States
Welcome to the International Festival of Language and Culture (IFLC), where the world celebrates linguistic diversity and cultural harmony! Join us for a musical event on October 21, 2023, for an extraordinary event transcending borders, languages, and traditions.
We are committed to contributing to world peace and dialogue by gathering young people from all around the world, regardless of their race, religion, or language, to share music and dance performances. More than 70 participants from 15+ countries, such as France, Germany, Romania, and Tunisia, are invited to join.
This unique festival promotes cultural understanding and fosters lasting friendships and connections. Join us in this exceptional gathering of cultures, where the universal language of art and compassion brings people together. Join us on October 21st and celebrate our shared humanity at the IFLC!
“The Most Beautiful Story” Musical Teaser

Scriptural Reasoning: “Peacemaking”
2023-10-26 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on October 26, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Peacemaking” with our study leader, The Rev. A. Katherine Grieb, Ph.D., from Virginia Theological Seminary.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

This Month`s Study Leader

The 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.
Dr. 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.

Panel Discussion: "Faith and Polarization"
2023-10-29 15:00 - 17:30 | UU Church of Arlington, 4444 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, VA, 22204, United States
Rumi Forum, Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society (JIDS), and Braver Angels have looked at political polarization before. However, on October 29, 2023, we’ll look at the subject through a different prism: faith. What roles does faith play in the political and cultural schisms that mar our society? Is it a cause of the problem? Or is it a potential antidote? And most importantly, what can we, as people of faith or members of faith communities, do to confront these issues?
Join Rumi Forum, JIDS, Braver Angels, and our host, Kol Ami Reconstructionist Community, in what figures to be a fascinating afternoon. It will kick off with presentations by Ibrahim Anli, Executive Director of Rumi Forum, a Braver Angels Scholars Council member, and Sofi Hersher Andorsky, V.P. of Strategy and Communications at A More Perfect Union: The Jewish Partnership for Democracy. One-on-one conversations, small group discussions, and a return to plenary session for an action-oriented conclusion to the event will follow.
Presenters

Ibrahim 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 in 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 American University, a member of the Braver Angels Scholars Council, and a member of the Public Diplomacy Council of America.
Sofi Hersher Andorsky has spent her career at the intersection of religion, technology, and creativity, working for non-profit sectors to serve greater goodwill and understanding within and across communities. She is also the founder of Grand View Strategies and a lifelong student of religion. Her portfolio includes projects for the National Council of Jewish Women, Newseum, Washington National Cathedral, Rose Community Foundation, and Together Beat Hate. Sofi also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty (BJC), works as a local interfaith organizer, and volunteers with various charities serving Afghan refugees and those seeking abortion services.

2023 Annual Gala and Dialogue Awards Ceremony
2023-11-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Meridian House, 1630 Crescent Pl NW, Washington, DC, 20009, United States
Rumi Forum’s 2023 Dialogue Award was presented to the renowned musical changemaker Micah Hendler. Micah is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Jerusalem Youth Chorus, an Israeli-Palestinian music and dialogue project. Micah also serves as Co-Director of Music at Braver Angels, America’s most significant grassroots movement working on political depolarization.
The Honoree was presented by his long-time friend Aziz Abu Sarah, a recognized peacebuilder working around the globe as a cultural educator, responsible travel innovator, and inspirational speaker. The remarks by Aziz and Micah were profound reflections of their personal stories, experiences with the conflict, and exemplary endeavors for peace.
The program also featured many publications by Rumi Forum’s research unit, the Center for Faith Identity and Globalization (CFIG).
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the attendees, our outstanding team of staff and volunteers, the fantastic Sufi Melody ensemble, and Micah Hendler and Aziz Abu Sarah for making this year’s Dialogue Award Ceremony a significant one!
Thank you for joining us and many distinguished guests as we reconnected and renewed our commitment to interfaith work!
About Rumi Forum:
Rumi Forum works towards strengthening the culture of peace, religious pluralism, and social harmony among faith communities and individuals of diverse beliefs, ethnicities, and backgrounds. The Forum strives to achieve this goal by building, informing, and mobilizing an active interfaith dialogue community.
About the Rumi Dialogue Award:
A traditional component of Rumi Forum’s endeavor is recognizing the lifetime dedication of inspirational public figures who have championed its cause. The Rumi Dialogue Award honors successful practitioners with outstanding track records in interfaith engagement, community service, human rights, and education.
Event Photos

Event Video

Reflections on on 2023 Rumi Dialogue Award Honoree, Micah Hendler

Local News Coverage on WAMU 88.5
“This D.C.-Area Musician Founded A Chorus For Palestinian and Israeli Youth”

2023 Rumi Forum Dialogue Award Honoree

Micah Hendler
Musical Changemaker
Micah is the Founder and Artistic Director of Jerusalem Youth Chorus, an Israeli-Palestinian music and dialogue project featured for its innovative musicianship and integrity of purpose and process from the Late Show with Stephen Colbert to the New York Times. Through the co-creation of music and the sharing of stories, the chorus empowers young singers from East and West Jerusalem to speak and sing their truths as they become leaders in their communities and inspire singers and listeners around the world to join them in their work for peace, justice, inclusion, and equality.
Award presented by
Aziz Abu Sarah
Cultural Educator
Aziz is a peace builder, cultural educator, entrepreneur, author, and international speaker. Harnessing the transformative power of travel, in 2009, Aziz co-founded MEJDI Tours—originators of the Dual Narrative™ and a leader of responsible travel. Aziz’s educational and conflict resolution work worldwide has earned him the titles of National Geographic Explorer and Ted Fellow. He has written opinion pieces for The New York Times, The Washington Post, Al-Quds, and Haaretz, and National Geographic, CNN, TED, and Al Arabiya have published them. He has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the World by the Royal Strategic Centre in Jordan each year since 2010.

Scriptural Reasoning: "Pilgrimage"
2023-11-14 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on November 14, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Pilgrimage” with our study leader, Dr. Mehmet Saracoglu, from the Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

Christian Scripture: New Testament Islamic Scripture: Quran

An article on pilgrimage by Hakan Yesilova
from “Abraham: A Story of True Submission”

This Month`s Study Leader

Dr. Mehmet Saracoglu is a community organizer with academic experience who brings passion and leadership together. He is the Director of the Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization (CFIG) at Rumi Forum. Previously, he served at Rumi Forum as the Public Affairs Director, Government, Media, and Community Affairs Director (Washington, DC), and Executive Director (Maryland). During his graduate studies at the University of Kentucky, he served as the founding president of the Interfaith/ Intercultural Dialogue Organization. Mehmet is an alum of Leadership Montgomery`s 2019 Emerging Leaders cohort. He is a member of the United Nations Association-National Capital Area, National Press Club, and Public Diplomacy Council`s Citizen Diplomacy International. Mehmet is a 2023 BJC (Baptist Joint Committee) Fellow.

Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to Burke Presbyterian Church
2023-11-16 17:45 - 20:30 | Burke Presbyterian Church, 5690 Oak Leather Dr, Burke, VA, 22015, United States
Rumi Forum and Sharing Sacred Spaces visited Burke Presbyterian Church in Burke, VA, on Thursday, November 16, 2023. This was an interfaith visit with representatives from at least six different religions present to explore the sacred space with the congregation at Burke Presbyterian Church.
This visit was run by Sharing Sacred Spaces and is part of the Interreligious Communities Project in Northern Virginia. There will be 7 “experiences,” not just visits. We go deep into the architectural design of each space, which opens up new avenues for connecting the material and the spiritual. Members of each congregation will also share their worldview, spiritual journeys, and history. We then share a meal and dialogue.
About the event:
This was an interfaith visit with representatives from at least six different religions present to explore the sacred space of this Catholic Church. This visit was run by Sharing Sacred Spaces and is part of the Interreligious Communities Project in Northern Virginia. There will be seven visits to different sacred spaces as part of this program. There will be 7 “experiences,” not just visits. We go deep into the architectural design of each space, which opens up new avenues for connecting the material and the spiritual. Members of each congregation will also share their worldview, spiritual journeys, and history. We then share a meal and dialogue. Learn more and see each sacred space’s etiquette.

Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to Masjid Muhammad
2023-12-03 15:00 - 17:30 | Masjid Muhammad, 1519 4th St. NW, Washington, DC, 20001, United States
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.
Our 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.
This visit is part of the Interreligious Communities Project (Northern VA/Washington).

Partner Event: Film Screening and Discussion-"Reuniting America"
2023-12-05 18:30 - 20:30 | George Mason University Van Metre Hall, 3351 Fairfax Drive (Room 308), Arlington, VA, 22201, United States
Rumi Forum, GMU Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Braver Angels, ICRD, and Focolare Forum brought together an evening of rich discussion on bridging the divide in the face of the growing partisan hatred that threatens our nation. It was great to see people coming together who are heartsick about the rancor tearing our country apart and who think that our opponents should not be our enemies and that America’s best days can lie ahead.
Event Program:
6:30 pm: Welcome by Carter School Representative
6:45 pm: Remarks by Rumi Forum, ICRD, and Focolare Forum on their depolarization work
7:00 pm: Remarks by two Braver Angels Ambassadors
7:10 pm: Film
8:00 pm: Discussion
8:30 pm: End of program

Scriptural Reasoning: "Reconciliation"
2023-12-06 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on December 6, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Reconciliation” with our study leader, Dr. Thomas Conroy, from Virginia Theological Seminary.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

Cristian Scripture: New Testament Islamic Scripture: Quran

This Month`s Study Leader

Dr. Thomas Martin Conroy is a middler in the Master of Divinity program at Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS) and a member of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, Alexandria, VA. Tom is a Companion Member of the Center for Anglican Communion Studies. He was the VTS student representative for The Compass Rose Society annual meeting this past November in London. The Society for the Increase of Ministry welcomed Tom as one of their scholars for the 2022-2023 academic year. His vocational focus is on interim ministry work and he presented a workshop on Congregational Discernment at the Interim Ministry Network annual conference this past November.
Before his move to Alexandria, Tom served Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Pittsburgh, PA, as organist, choir director, and bell choir director. His Catholic upbringing comprised Maronite and Roman rites, and he began playing for services at his Lebanese parish, St. Maron Church in Youngstown, Ohio, at age twelve. He completed his master’s degree in composition at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2003, where he also was a faculty member from 2009 to 2013; he earned his doctorate of musical arts in composition at Rice University in Houston, Texas. He served on the faculties of Texas A and M University, University of Houston, and Ball State University.

Live Sufi Music and Poetry: Rumi’s "Night of the Union”
2023-12-17 18:30 - 20:00 | Church of the Holy City, 1611 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC, 20009, United States
Rumi Forum organized a live Sufi music performance by “Sufi Melody” with Sara Snyder: “Seeking mental health through Rumi`s poetry” on Dec. 17, 2023, at 6:30 pm at the Church of the Holy City.

About the Event
Sheb-i Arus (Night of Union”) marks the anniversary of Rumi’s passing on December 17, 1273. On this night, admirers of the great luminary worldwide engage in various spiritual practices and learning activities to honor his legacy.
The word “arus,” meaning “wedding,” symbolizes the union of the soul with the Divine upon death. Sheb-i Arus serves as a time for spiritual reflection, celebration, and a reaffirmation of the teachings and values espoused by Rumi.
Join us on December 17th for an end-of-the-year social night to celebrate this meaningful occasion with Rumi’s teachings and live Sufi music!
Live Sufi Music by “Sufi Melody”

Sufi Melody is a spiritual music ensemble that aims to establish a web of love and a sense of connectedness among cultural groups through music. Inspired by the inclusive tradition of Sufism, Sufi Melody aims to create and cover pieces from various faith traditions, including but not limited to Islam, to build bridges among diverse communities. Sufi Melody`s mission is to foster unity and understanding among diverse communities through music.
“Seeking Mental Health Through Rumi’s Poetry“ by Sarah Snyder

S.A. Snyder has been a writer for more than 30 years. She participates in live storytelling and blogs about self-care and retreating. With humor and insight, Sarah inspires others by telling her own experiences to examine what it means to live a meaningful life. She is also the author of four books: DIY Retreats: A Handbook for Creating Your Space, Setting an Intention, and Getting the Self-care You Need; The Value of Your Soul: Lessons in Dealing with Life’s Annoyances (using Rumi verse to live a more meaningful life); Plant Trees, Carry Sheep: A Woman’s Spiritual Journey Among the Sufis of Scotland (a memoir); and Montana Scenic Drives(your travel companion to visiting Montana’s scenic places).

Scriptural Reasoning: "Refugees"
2024-01-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on January 18, 2024, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Refugees” with our study leader, Aaron R. Dunn, from the Episcopal Diocese of Washington.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

Christian Scripture: New Testament Islamic Scripture: Quran

This Month`s Study Leader

Aaron R. Dunn is a deacon for Holy Orders in the Episcopal Diocese of Washington and recently completed his Master’s in Divinity student at Virginia Theological Seminary. Before beginning his seminary training, he served as the Vocal Music Teacher at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, MD, and before that, as Voice Faculty and Director of Opera Workshop at Lincoln University. Aaron holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music from the University of Tennessee. He has worked nationally and internationally as both a vocalist and stage director.

Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to Drikung Dharma Surya Center
2024-01-28 19:00 - 21:30 | Drikung Dharma Surya Center, 5300 Ox Road, Fairfax, VA, 22030, United States
Rumi Forum and Sharing Sacred Spaces visited the Drikung Dharma Surya Center in Fairfax, VA, on Sunday, January 28, from 7 to 9:30 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.
Our friends at the Temple greet us with warm hospitality, love, and compassion. We learned the story and heart of their religion and its practices, had the opportunity to participate in rituals, heard from members about their spiritual journey, walked the space, enjoyed delicious food (from the origins of Tibet, Mongolia, and China), and joined in the dialogue. Participants came with their curiosity and questions and took this opportunity to meet their neighbors and build the foundations for peace.
This visit is part of the Interreligious Communities Project (Northern VA/Washington).

Partner Event: IRF Summit 2024
2024-01-30 08:00 - 2024-01-31 17:00 | Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave, N.W., Washington, DC, 20009, United States
Rumi Forum was once again a proud Convening Partner and Steering Committee Member of the IRF Summit 2024, the preeminent global gathering of religious freedom advocates and activists. This one-of-a-kind event, which took place January 30 – 31 in Washington, DC, convened a diverse coalition of groups and individuals dedicated to a simple but profound goal: Religious Freedom for everyone, everywhere, all the time.
The Summit brought the dynamic IRF community together for two days packed with amazing programs featuring survivors of persecution, the foremost experts in human rights and religious freedom, and government leaders on the frontlines of this issue. In addition to enhanced programming, this year’s Summit also offered new opportunities to network and build future collaborations.
#IRFSummit2024 featured four unique Breakout Tracks focused on key global religious freedom areas of work:

Vulnerable
Voices
Victories
Violations

Voices of IRF Summit 2023

Partner Event: Film Screening and Discussion of “Sevap/Mitzvah”
2024-02-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Washington Hebrew Congregation, 3935 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC, 20016, United States
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.
This 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.
Watch the Trailer

Awards
2024 Academy Awards – For Your Consideration Best Live Action Short Film
2023 Humanitas Prize
2023 ECOCINE Film Festival ~ Human Rights Award
2023 Centre Film Festival ~ Gratitude Award
2023 Sedicicorto International Film Festival ~ Audience Award
2023 Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival ~ Jury Award: International Vision Award
2023 Cordillera International Film Festival ~ Jury Award: Best Female Focus
2021 Claims Conference ~ Emerging Filmmaker Grant

Interreligious Communities Project: Site Visit to Temple Rodef Shalom
2024-02-18 17:00 - 19:30 | Temple Rodef Shalom, 2100 Westmoreland St., Falls Church, VA, 22043, United States
Rumi Forum and Sharing Sacred Spaces will visit the Temple Rodef Shalom in Falls Church, VA, on Sunday, February 18, from 5 to 7:30 pm. This interfaith visit will have 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.
Our friends at the Temple will greet us with warm hospitality, love, and compassion. We will learn the story and heart of their religion and its practices, have the opportunity to participate in a mini-Torah study on sacred space, hear from members about their spiritual journeys, walk the gorgeous space, enjoy delicious food (such as matzoh ball soup), and join in the dialogue. Participants are encouraged to come with their curiosity and questions and take this opportunity to meet their neighbors and build the foundations for peace.
This visit is part of the Interreligious Communities Project (Northern VA/Washington).

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

Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran

Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible Christian Scripture: New Testament

This Month`s Study Leader

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

5th ILF: "Harnessing our Collective Strength through Interreligious Literacy"
2024-02-29 17:30 - 21:00 | Virginia Theological Seminary-Addison Academic Center, 3630 Bishop Walker Cir., Alexandria, VA, 22304, United States
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.

About the Event
Interreligious 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.
Social 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.
This 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.

Thematic Areas:

Chaplaincy

Sister 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.

Healthcare

Dr. 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.
She 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.

Education

Dr. 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.

Law Enforcement

Officer 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.

About the Interfaith Leadership Forum
Interfaith 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.
ILF 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.
Objectives
Interfaith Leadership Forum aims to strengthen interfaith relationships, literacy, and leadership by;

Equipping one another with various models of dialogue with distinct ends.
Experiencing deeper levels of interfaith encounters and dialogue
Strengthening literacy about other’s faiths and about one’s own
Overcoming prejudices and misconceptions about other faiths
Eliciting social action through interfaith engagement.

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

Virginia Community Iftar

Maryland Community Iftar

Iftar with BJC (Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty)

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

Iftar with Interfaith Encounters Association (IEA)

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

Iftar with Interreligious Communities Project (ICP)

Iftar with Jerusalem Youth Chorus (JYC)

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

Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

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

This Month`s Study Leader

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