How important is interfaith dialogue between different faiths?

Question

And how significant are the Christian ecumenical movements? Ist really working?

Answer 1

I think it's vital.

But here's the rub - those people who are most likely to join interfaith groups aren't the people who most need to be there.

From my experience in a local Interfaith Council, most of the folks who join are already pretty accepting of religious differences. So it's kind of like "preaching to the choir". On the other hand, there is an oportunity there that doesn't exist many other places; to understand other religions fromt he standont of those who practice them, rather than the popular opiions of the masses.

The folks who would never ever consider joining are those who would most benefit from being a part, IMO.

And real change will not take place from just clergy forging understandings of each others religious or spiritual paths; real change will happen between congregants.

It's absolutely vital for Interfaith clergy members to involve their congregants in activities that bring them together with people of other religions; as just humans first, so that the fear factor can be overcome, then in educational programs so that we can come to understand each others belief and practices better.

One of the interesting things about Interfaith groups is that this experience is pretty universal: coming to understand different religions doesn't lessen ones own devoutness, but rather confirms it.

There's this misconception that the goal of interfaith groups is to blur the edges between religions, and that's just not the case.

What can i say? If you have the greatness of heart to be able to accept that there is more than one way to have a relationship with the Divine, you should join. It may require that you grow a lot. It may require that you let go of some ideas that you have about people of other religions.

It absolutely will require you to gain a deeper understanding of your own religion.



I don't know how significant Christian ecumenical councils are, as I've never been in one.

Answer 2

Very good intention but in my country this phrase 'interfaith dialogue' almost caused a riot !The gorvenment has ban a 'interfaith dialogue committee.'

Answer 3

extremely important as conversations lead to better understanding. when one has understanding there is a lack of fear. for when fear is present there is a tendency to want to destroy and when one destroys there is a loss of wisdom and knowledge. GOD is to big to be in only one place and the basic differences in one Religion and another are the NAMES they refer to GOD as and the Rituals and Ceremonies they use to Honor, Worship, Adore, Praise, Pray to and Petition, Thank, etc. etc.

Answer 4

Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship do righteousness and lawlessness have? Or what sharing does light have with darkness?
15 Further, what harmony is there between Christ and Be′li·al? Or what portion does a faithful person have with an unbeliever? 16 And what agreement does God’s temple have with idols? For we are a temple of a living God; just as God said: “I shall reside among them and walk among [them], and I shall be their God, and they will be my people.”
17 “‘Therefore get out from among them, and separate yourselves,’ says Jehovah, ‘and quit touching the unclean thing’”; “‘and I will take YOU in.’.

Answer 5

The Catholics will not give in one iota, but your religion will (alot). This is all leading to a one world religion.

Answer 6

It's as important as any dialogue.

Answer 7

i think it works for people who are open to trying to understand other people's beliefs.

otherwise it doesnt work. it is just another way for people to argue their point, and it just turns into a big debate.

Answer 8

Not very, because the real religious nutters won't listen anyway.