News Release
November 2003
(Bethlehem, Pennsylvania)—In an effort to raise awareness of
the diversity of faith found on campus and in the world and model inter-faith
collaboration, the Multi-faith Council at Moravian College will take
part in an Inter-faith Bus Tour. The first tour is Saturday, November
22, from 4 – 6:30 p.m. at the Islamic Center of the Lehigh Valley.
Students are invited to participate in the breaking of the fast of
Ramadan by sharing in a light meal with the Islamic community. Students
also will be given the opportunity to observe the Muslims in prayer.
This series of tours will take place over the coming year and will
visit the various worship centers of the Lehigh Valley. Thus far there
are plans to tour a local temple, mosque, synagogue, cathedral and
sanctuary. While at the worship centers, students will be given instruction
by the resident cleric in regard to the basic history and worship practices
of that faith.
“This tour offers an opportunity for students to interact with
the faith practice and history of different religions other than their
own.” said Rev. David E. Bennett, Chaplain, Moravian College,
and Moravian Theological Seminary. “The trips will help students
gain an increased sensitivity, awareness, and appreciation of other
faiths.
The Multi-faith Council at Moravian College is composed of 8-10 students
representing different faiths. Among the groups objectives are modeling
collaboration, cooperation, and understanding spiritual issues outside
of mainstream religions. The group seeks to enhance identity of faith
for self and others and raise the importance of spirituality as an
asset for living. They also provide education about various world faiths
and provide opportunities for students to explore, and confront misconceptions
about various faiths.
