Interfaith Panel Discussion
March 15, 2023
You can watch a recording of this event at the below Youtube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qpqztkWkEw&t=11s
The Interfaith Council at Kean University planned their first panel event this past week. The goal of the event was to dive deeper into the topic of interfaith dialogue, and why it is important for the Kean community to understand it. The program was also made possible due Kean University receiving an Interfaith America Grant from the 2022-2023 academic year.
The panel was excited to invite three speakers: Rabbi Victor Appell, Dr. Christopher Bellitto, and Rizwan Rizvi. Dr. Bellitto is a Professor of History at Kean and has been at the university since 2004. Dr. Bellitto represented a Catholic/Christian perspective on our panel- He is a practicing Catholic, “meaning I am trying to get it right and realize that I won’t,” he added. Resident Scholar Masjide Ali Rizwan Rizvi represented Islamic perspective. He has served with the Central Jersey Muslim Foundation since 2012. Lastly, Rabbi Appell on the panel represented the perspective of judaism. He is the Associate Rabbi at Temple Emanu-El, a reform congregation, and has been a Rabbi for 24 years.
What are the challenges of Interfaith dialogue?
Our speakers were asked a set of questions surrounding the topic of interfaith dialogue, and our first conversation surrounded the challenges it presents. Resident Scholar Rizvi opened it up to quote the Quran, Chapter 17, verse 70: “And we have certainly honored the children of Adam, and carried them on the land and sea, provided for them the good things and preferred them over much of what we have created with definite preference.” He noted that this highlights the challenges that ae faced in such a diverse society. Of course, Resident Scholar Rizvi notes that simply our beliefs and different practices are a challenge, in addition to the many different cultures within each religion. Rabbi Appell responded to this question by pointing out that many people are hesitant to interfaith dialogue because “they are not sure how they would be viewed or accepted.” The concern that interfaith dialogue comes with the assumption of conversion is also a factor. “One of the things on this campus that I find delightful is the fact that we must encounter each other because of the incredible diversity,” Dr. Bellitto stated, but goes on to mention that this is not always everyone’s experience or case. Without this type of exposure, the conversation can go “I’m right, you’re wrong!” and that is how it has historically been, according to Dr. Bellitto. All of the panelists agreed that ignorance, fear, and distrust are all factors.
What are the opportunities of interfaith dialogue?
“…Sitting side by side, [we can] build bridges,” Resident Scholar Rizvi answered. “We are able to bring ourselves together, and bridge a gap between our faiths , promote understanding, and reduce misunderstandings and stereotypes that exist.” He went on to describe a program at his mosque where students from nearby colleges are invited to attend at any time solely for the purpose of education and to enlighten them. No need to Google things or try to learn from social media when you can experience it first hand! Rabbi Appell responded to this question discussing social justice and social action- interfaith dialogue can allow for us to support one another. “When a community feels or is under attack, it is wonderful to know that they have the support of their interfaith neighbors.” Dr. Bellitto added on to this, “we tend to focus on the damage… [but] like Mr. Rodgers used to say, always look towards the people running to help,” because there are good people of all faiths.
What role can young people, including students play in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding?
“The energy [young people] possess” is powerful, according to Resident Scholar Rizvi. “There is acceptance in them. There is less bias and prejudice in them [compared to] older folks.” He added. “They are much smarter than we are,” Rabbi Appell joked. Rabbi Appell added that older generations may have approached interfaith dialogue with fear, while today it is approached with fascination, “which is such a hopeful sign.” The desire to learn is crucial. Dr. Bellitto, who is a professor here at Kean, started his response by stating, “if we only think of the professors as teachers, then we are being very narrow [minded!]”
How can people overcome differences and disagreements in order to have positive and fruitful relationships of other faiths and backgrounds? How can we respect each other by acknowledging we do not have to always agree?
Beginning with a quote from the prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law, Resident Scholar Rizvi said, “people are of two types: either your brother in religion, or your equal in creation.” He went on to say that listening actively and carefully while speaking to others is key. Rabbi Appell continues the discussion, further stating that interfaith dialogue “is not a win or take all event. It is not a competition!” - meaning, we are here to learn about each other and learn from each other, so going in with an attitude of “inquisitiveness” can lead to respectful conversation.
Following the prepared questions, the council opened up the event to questions from attendees. The panelists received questions such as, “What are some traditions or practices that people from other faiths might find interesting or might not know about?” , “What is the best thing that keeps you anchored in your faith?” , “Please shed a little light on the similarities and differences of the Quran and Bible, and how to address them in interfaith forums,” , and lastly, “What could students/people who do not know what faith they believe in take from interfaith dialogue?”
We had over 20 attendees listening into the discussion of our panelists at this event, and are so thankful for their insights and responses. We look forward to having more events like this in the future!