Interfaith toolkit
Engage your neighbors
This kit contains a variety of resources to help as you engage with neighbors of faiths other than your own, or prepare to do so. It contains “how to do it” sorts of pieces, examples of what others have done as well as more reflective materials on interfaith relationship as an integral part of being faithful followers of Jesus Christ.
Continue readingFinding Your Way in Presbyterian Policy and Teaching on Interfaith Relations
Many Presbyterians ask about the practical and theological bases for relations with men and women of religious traditions outside the Christian family. Over the last 30 years, our church has adopted a number of papers and policies that provide such guidance, many of which are available on this Web site.
Continue readingWhy get involved with people of other faiths?
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has offered guidance about relations with neighbors who are Muslims, Jews, Hindus or followers of other faiths in a variety of documents and from a number of perspectives. We have assembled most of these policy and study resources here in an introduction to the thinking of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) on interfaith relations and related issues. See the Presbyterian Principles and Policies section of the Interfaith Tool Kit.
Study Christian-Muslim Relations
With the marked rise of concerns about Islam, and alarming anti-Muslim statements and actions, it is a good time to learn more about the faith and practice of Muslims, and to interact with them. In July, the 219th General Assembly approved for study and guidance "Toward an Understanding of Christian-Muslim Relations." This resource, with study suggestions, is ready for you to use!
The Interfaith Relations Office
The Interfaith Relations Office seeks to support those in the church who are interested in, concerned about or engaged in building interfaith relationships. As Presbyterians learn about religious diversity, we reflect theologically on our relations with neighbors of other faiths. We also seek avenues for cooperation, or look for educational resources and practical models for bringing communities together. We hope you will find helpful information and resources on this we site.
Other resources of note
- Visit the PC(USA) Ecumenical and Interfaith News Network. This helpful and informative Web site is hosted by Paul Masquelier, ecumenical/ interfaith liaison from San Jose Presbytery, and edited by Margaret Orr Thomas.
- Visit Change the Story, an online resource aimed at transforming harmful stereotypes about Muslims that persist in U.S. society.
- Presbyterian Packet on Religious Stereotyping may help in responding to new instances of anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim bias.
- National Interreligious Leadership Initiative represents Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders united for the Peace of Jerusalem. NILI’s unique contribution is its ability to unite high level national religious leaders, representing a broad range of national organizations, in support of a common, substantive message for peace.
