 |
  |
 |
||||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
||
|
|
 |
|||||||
 |
||||||||
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
News and Events Archive
Recent Articles
Jews celebrate 'dawn of creation'
CRCC Launches the Pentecostal and Charismatic Research Initiative Hopeful News Pope insists Church rejects anti-Semitism Interfaith Council to advise Obama
All Archives
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama will preside over the final prayer ceremony and will also give a teaching from the Jataka Tales at the Main Tibetan Temple (Tsug lag Khang). Large butter sculptures will be displayed amidst butter lamps offered and lit by the pilgrims and residents of Dharamsala. read more |Posted by admin on February 21, 2008
Greek Orthodox Leader Dies at 69ATHENS — Archbishop Christodoulos, the charismatic head of the Greek Orthodox Church who helped heal centuries-old grievances with the Roman Catholic Church but stirred controversy with his politically tinged statements and tireless interventions in state affairs, died on Monday. He was 69....
Schooled by Catholic monks in Athens, the archbishop moved to mend the divide between Eastern European and Rome-based Christianity, which dates back to 1054 but deepened in the 20th century. He received the late Pope John Paul II in Athens in 2001 — the first papal visit to Greece in nearly 1,300 years. Despite widespread opposition from conservative adherents of the Orthodox faith, he followed up with a historic visit to the Vatican last year, meeting Pope Benedict XVI. Posted by admin on January 28, 2008
Vatican, Muslims plan 'historic' meetingArticle here VATICAN CITY - Catholic and Muslim representatives plan to meet in Rome in the spring to start a "historic" dialogue between the faiths after relations were soured by Pope Benedict XVI's 2006 comments about Islam and holy war, Vatican officials said.
Posted by admin on January 16, 2008
The Assassination of Dr. Benazir BhuttoTragic events involving the assassination of Dr. Benazir Bhutto are, for the most part, political in nature, though naturally the perversion of religious zeal has some significant role to play.
As the matter is predominantly political, a collection of information and commentary has been provided for our readers on the website Leaves. Please pray for the people and the stability of Pakistan at this fragile and critical juncture. Posted by admin on December 28, 2007
Can religion improve peace prospects in the Middle East?
By Jane Lampman | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor Council: Members of the Council of Religious Institutions in the Holy Land met Nov. 6 in Washington at the Norwegian ambassador's residence prior to peace talks in Annapolis, Md.
Posted by admin on December 21, 2007
Jews and Muslims Set Up Big Interfaith Effort
Posted by admin on December 17, 2007
World's biggest Bible factory opens in ChinaWe have covered through a number of articles on these pages controversy that arose regarding the freedom of Olympians to bring Bibles with them to the '08 games. It might be surprising to read of this development. It is a country where people caught smuggling religious texts or organising illicit services can face years in jail. Yet China is about to become home to the world's biggest Bible factory, producing a staggering one million copies a month. The aircraft hangar-sized plant in an industrial park outside the eastern city of Nanjing will be capable of producing more than one Bible every second and is expected to supply one quarter of all the world's Bibles by 2009. Amity Printing - a joint venture between a Chinese Christian charity and the UK-based United Bible Societies - is already printing up to 800,000 Bibles a month, 80 percent of which are distributed to officially-approved churches across China. read more |Posted by admin on December 13, 2007
Holy Kaaba to be draped with a $5-million coveringHere at IRFWP dot org we believe that it is important to learn as much as possible about one another's religions. Especially the simple and non controversial basics that awaken in us awe and our sense of the sacred.
The Kaaba cover, referred to as a 'kiswa' in Arabic, is made of black silk and adorned with phrases in praise of God, ornamented with 150 kg of gold and silver thread.
Costing about $5.36 million, the kiswa took a whole year to produce in a specialised factory. The Haj officially starts on December 19. Posted by admin on December 13, 2007
Statement by Irish Supreme Muslim Councilألمجلس الاعلي الاسلامي الايرلندي Ard Comhairle Moslamach Na hEireann THE Supreme Muslim Council of Ireland hereby condemns The Council expresses its unequivocal condemnation of In this regard we re-iterate our oft-stated view that violence We express our hope that the Algerian government will do Sheikh (Prof)Shaheed Satardien - Chairman Posted by admin on December 12, 2007
Death toll in Algiers bombings at 30Emergency workers searched for bodies and survivors Wednesday after twin truck bombings by an affiliate of al-Qaida targeted U.N. offices and a government building in Algiers, killing at least 30 people. As many as 11 U.N. workers, possibly more, were killed, U.N. officials said. Al-Qaida has called for attacks on French and Spanish interests in North Africa. French President Nicolas Sarkozy visited Algeria last week. Al-Qaida's self-styled North African branch, in a posting on a militant Web site, said two suicide bombers attacked the buildings Tuesday with trucks carrying 1,760 pounds of explosives each. Posted by admin on December 12, 2007
British Muslim Leaders Propose ‘Code of Conduct’This is precisely the mission of enlightened religious leaders. It is the hope of IRFWP that this conscientious, applied vision of positive religious contribution to the welfare of multi-religious societies be emulated globally. New York Times LONDON, Nov. 29 — Moderate British Muslim leaders on Thursday proposed guidelines that aim to root out extremism, promote a culture of “civic responsibility” and foster women’s rights in the country’s mosques, Islamic centers and Muslim schools. The guidelines, circulated in draft form to Muslim groups across the country, represent a sweeping new effort by the moderate leaders to combat alienation among disaffected Muslim youth and to foster a new atmosphere of openness and tolerance among Britain’s two million Muslims, particularly in the country’s 1,500 mosques. The 10-point “code of conduct” will be put before Muslim groups for public discussion, with the aim of producing a final version by March 2008. The proposals would commit groups that accept the code to “actively combat all forms of violent extremism” within their communities and to “promote civic responsibility of Muslims in wider society.” Posted by admin on December 02, 2007
In Nigeria, the Quest for a ‘Humane Shariah’The IRFWP has a long history of investing in interreligious harmony in Nigeria. There were many times when this effort seemed woeful and despairing. This New York Times article offers some real hope.
Posted by admin on November 30, 2007
Religious leaders seek ways to tackle violenceAMRITSAR • Leaders of key faiths met in the holy Indian city of Amritsar yesterday seeking ways to break the bitter cycle of sectarian violence, the organisers said. The third meeting of the Elijah Board of World Religious Leaders, a group founded in 1996 to promote inter-faith dialogue, brings together prominent Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Christians and Buddhists in a five day-forum to “share wisdom” on how to avoid conflicts, said Rabbi Alon Goshen-Gottstein. The backdrop of religious-related violence was a constant reminder for the leaders that a process is needed to help people work out bitter disputes, such as sect clashes among Muslims, Buddhist monks protesting the junta in Myanmar or the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Goshen-Gottstein said. “The main goal is to consolidate the gains of previous conferences and find a strategy to develop a broad educational curricula,” he added. Previous conferences were held in Spain in 2003 and Taiwan in 2005. Speakers include the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Chinese-controlled Tibet who has lived in exile in India since 1959. “Leaders like the Dalai Lama will debate what is possible or appropriate in sharing wisdom across faiths and even the question of whether we should,” said Simon Cohen, a spokesman for the event and managing director of Britain-based Global Tolerance. “One thing that all agree on is the concept of giving and receiving love and forgiveness. We want to bring that into the real world,” he said. Other participants include Cardinal Telesphore Placidus Toppo of India, Chief Rabbi Joseph Azran of Israel and religious scholar Adamou Ndam Njoya of Cameroon. Posted by admin on November 27, 2007
IRFWP reception at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion, 2007The Inter Religious Federation for World Peace (IRFWP) and its predecessors hold a reception at the annual conference of the American Academy of Religion (AAR), and have done so every year since 1981. Below is the announcement and information for our reception this year. If you are in San Diego, please be sure to visit. We would love to see you. clipped from www.aarweb.org
Posted by admin on November 14, 2007
War Ends for Militant Group in Northern IrelandThough technically a political clash, nevertheless (and not without reason) the conflict in Ireland is seen and felt by many as religious. Even the group mentioned in this positive news article bears word Protestant in its name.
Posted by admin on November 12, 2007
First Sunni-Shia 'fatwa against violence' to be signed in IraqSenior religious leaders in Iraq are preparing to sign an unprecedented “fatwa against violence” that will help reconcile the rival Sunni and Shia branches of Islam and herald new hopes for peace in the war-torn country. The fatwa, negotiated by the peace organisation run by the Anglican “Vicar of Baghdad” Canon Andrew White, will mark a significant move towards a settlement between the Shia and Sunni communities and ease the process towards a political solution. Times Online Posted by admin on November 12, 2007
Ethiopia's 'New Jerusalem' Major Draw for Christian Pilgrims
Posted by admin on November 10, 2007
Burmese Monks March Again Ahead of Visit by U.N. Envoy
Posted by admin on November 01, 2007
Uneasy days for monks in Myanmar
Posted by admin on October 24, 2007
His Holiness as Emory professor
Posted by admin on October 24, 2007
Report: Police surround monks celebrating Dalai Lama honorArticle here BEIJING — Police in the capital of Tibet clashed for four days with Buddhist monks trying to celebrate the awarding of a congressional honor to the Dalai Lama, a Hong Kong newspaper reported today. It said that after the clash, the monastery was surrounded by 3,000 armed police who refused to allow more than 1,000 monks to leave. It gave no other details and did not say if there were any injuries. Posted by admin on October 21, 2007
Nearly 3,000 Held in MyanmarBy THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
NCC execs welcome Muslim leaders"We welcome the letter of these Islamic leaders and scholars," said the Rev. Michael Livingston, president of the National Council of Churches USA (NCC), in response to a document, "A Common Word between Us and You," released by 138 moderate Muslim leaders on the occasion of Eid-al-Fitr, the concluding day of Ramadan, the month-long season of fasting and prayer. "It is a sign of hope in a violent world," he added. Dr. Shanta Premawardhana, associate general secretary for Interfaith Relations added his gratitude for what he called "a deliberate and thoughtful" document. "We thank the Islamic leaders for their initiative," Livingston said. The National Council of Churches USA is the ecumenical voice of 35 of America's Orthodox, Protestant, Anglican, historic African American and traditional peace churches. These NCC member communions have 45 million faithful members in 100,000 congregations in all 50 states. Press release here Posted by admin on October 16, 2007
Muslim scholars call for peace with ChristiansThu Oct 11, 2007 6:59 AM ET
LONDON (Reuters) - More than 130 Muslim scholars called on Thursday for peace and understanding between Islam and Christianity, saying "the very survival of the world itself is perhaps at stake". In a letter to Pope Benedict and other Christian leaders, Muslim scholars from around the world said finding common ground between the world's biggest religions was not simply a matter for polite dialogue between religious leaders. "If Muslims and Christians are not at peace, the world cannot be at peace. With the terrible weaponry of the modern world; with Muslims and Christians intertwined everywhere as never before, no side can unilaterally win a conflict between more than half of the world's inhabitants," the scholars wrote. "Our common future is at stake. The very survival of the world itself is perhaps at stake," they wrote. Article herePosted by admin on October 11, 2007
Myanmar Threatened With Sanctions Amid Global Protest
Oct. 6 (Bloomberg) -- The U.S. said it may seek United Nations sanctions against Myanmar as a worldwide show of support for pro-democracy demonstrators got under way. Campaigners in countries including Australia, Belgium, Canada, South Korea, the U.K. and Ireland planned to march at noon local time, wearing red headbands in support of Buddhist monks who've been arrested, the Burma Campaign U.K. said on its Web site. ``This day of action is to show that the crisis has not gone away. The UN Security Council must act now to end the crackdown and they must keep focused on this crisis until we know the people of Burma are safe,'' said Ko Aung, a Burmese refugee in the U.K. Article herePosted by admin on October 06, 2007
Pentagon observes Muslim holy monthThe Washington Times reports October 3, 2007 By Sara A. CarterNavy imam Chaplain Abuhena M. Saifulislam lifted his voice to God as he called to prayer more than 100 Department of Defense employees Monday at a celebration of Ramadan at the Pentagon. “God is most great,” sang the lieutenant commander and Islamic leader, in Arabic, as iftar — the end of the daily fast began. Uniformed military personnel, civilians and family members faced Mecca and knelt on adorned prayer rugs chanting their prayers in quiet invocation to Allah. Article here Posted by admin on October 03, 2007
Monks Killed in Burma ProtestsUpdated: 13:57, Wednesday September 26, 2007  Monks carried surgical masks to protect against tear gas "The whole world is now watching Burma," Mr Brown said. Different sources in Burma have made different claims about a death toll as thousands took part in demonstrations for a ninth consecutive day. Article herePosted by admin on September 26, 2007
Cremation is latest battlefield in Israel's perennial religious warsFrom its earliest days the Inter Religious Federation for World Peace (IRFWP), (more precisely the Council for the World's Religions (CWR), founded in 1985) recognized INTRA religious dialogue as vital and indispensable to the mission of religion and peace. Religions divided in themselves can not function reliably as dialogue partners. For this reason, CWR blazed a strong and fine trail of intrareligious dialogue greatly serving to knit together the inner factions of the world's great religious families. Sadly this work was not properly sustained, leaving now horrible rifts in the major religions. Religion has descended further from its mission for peace when factions so misread scripture as to find justification not only for violence, but violence against innocents, and violence against our own fellow believers. We are most accustomed to wincing at the horror of deaths among pilgrims as we see in Iraq frequently. Today however evidence of intra Jewish strife has made the news. It may seem merely like the destruction of a single and simple crematorium, but the intelligent reader will recognize in this the inner rifts in Israel that help to render it incapable of effective peace seeking for its own benefit. Extensive reportage is found in the Signonsandiego article "Cremation is latest battlefield in Israel's perennial religious wars" .
Posted by admin on September 23, 2007
Important news from the religious worldBacked by Cheering Crowds, Defiant Monks Protest Burma's Junta
The junta there held general elections in 1990 but refused to honor the results when pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party won. Suu Kyi has been in detention or under house arrest for more than 11 years. Now monks are leading anti-junta protests there. It is important for all religious believers to be prayerful and in solidarity with our fellow religionists presently involved in life risking activity. Posted by admin on September 19, 2007
TEHRAN, IRAN: Moderate former president appointed to key religious post
Published: September 5th, 2007 01:00 AM
Former Iranian President Hashemi Rafsanjani rose to a key religious post Tuesday in a move that moderates considered a victory at a time Tehran is facing international pressure over its nuclear ambitions and U.S. threats to brand its Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization.
Rafsanjani, widely regarded as a pragmatist, was appointed to head the Assembly of Experts, a clerical body that selects the nation’s supreme religious leader. The new position further enhances his portfolio and was viewed by many analysts as at least a temporary obstacle to the hard-line conservatives running the government. Los Angeles Times Posted by admin on September 05, 2007
The Rubin Museum of Art exhibits Donald and Shelley Rubin's outstanding collection of Himalayan art(From the New York Sun) Special to the Sun
 Big art seeks to awe. It also seeks to speak to many people at once, in the context of public festivals or religious observances. The Rubin Museum of Art exhibits Donald and Shelley Rubin's outstanding collection of Himalayan art, and currently features an exhibition that provides a fine introduction both to that art and to the museum: "BIG! Himalayan Art" showcases more than 30 large-scale artworks from the collection. These include textiles, ritual objects, and especially tangkas (scroll paintings on cloth). Posted by admin on August 24, 2007
Iraqi Shia, Sunni groups to hold talks in FinlandPlease pray for the success of these talks Helsinki, Aug 22 (Xinhua) Representatives of Iraq's Shia and Sunni Muslim groups will meet in Finland late next week to negotiate ways to defuse factional fighting in the war-torn country, Finnish daily Helsingin Sanomat reported Wednesday. The report said the meeting would be hosted in part by the Crisis Management Initiative (CMI), a non-profit organization founded by former Finnish president Martti Ahtisaari. It also said the Iraqi government was not involved in the process. Story here Posted by admin on August 22, 2007
In diverse world, employers learn to make room for faith at workHere is a fascinating article describing how major companies are accommodating the religions of their employees. “Managers have to think what the factors are that attract or cause people to leave their organization,” said Riccardi, now senior adviser on diversity and inclusion at the Conference Board, which published a report last November on faith in the workplace. “If religion is one, they have to think about how to manage that,” Riccardi said, and create an environment that is inviting to as many people as possible. Posted by admin on August 17, 2007
Man turns down $5,000,000,000 (that's 5 Billion) to save ancestral lands
IRFWP.org usually reports on matters of interfaith, and religion and peace issues. Nevertheless it is important to secure for Jeffrey Lee as much coverage as possible for his efforts to protect sacred lands. Story's here Posted by admin on August 13, 2007
EXCELLENT NEWS - Jordan committee to promote Muslim dialogueread more |Posted by admin on August 13, 2007
Jewish Kaddish, Catholic psalms at Notre Dame for funeral of Jewish-born French cardinalBy Angela Doland 3:01 p.m. August 9, 2007 PARIS – Cardinal Jean-Marie Lustiger, a convert from Judaism who sought to bring the faiths closer during his extraordinary life, is carrying on the mission in death – with a funeral rich in symbolism that includes a Jewish prayer read by a Nazi death camp survivor. Jews and Roman Catholics plan to join in front of the sculpted saints of the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral on Friday to hear the Jewish prayer, known as the Mourner's Kaddish, before the funeral Mass for the former archbishop of Paris.
Posted by admin on August 09, 2007
Shiite Pilgrims Willingly Risk Lives for Faithby Corey Flintoff
Morning Edition, August 9, 2007 · Tens of thousands of Shiites faced potential danger on Thursday in their walk for hours, or even days, to perform an annual pilgrimage to the shrine of a much-loved Imam, or saint. Posted by admin on August 09, 2007
New York Catholics visit mosque, learn about IslamBy Beth Griffin WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. (CNS) -- In late July, carloads of curious Catholics caravanned north from their church to a mosque in the next county. Three dozen Catholics who regularly attend Mass at the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement's Graymoor Spiritual Life Center in Garrison accepted a Muslim visitor's invitation to attend services at Masjid Al-Noor, his mosque in Wappingers Falls read more |Posted by admin on August 09, 2007
Prospects Improve for Pope-Patriarch "Summit"This from Catholic World News Brief, 7-August-2007
Should Moscow and Rome choose Jesus' preference after a despised history of division, let it be with a heart and the plan to extend that same love to all believers in all world traditions. read more |Posted by admin on August 07, 2007
China tells living Buddhas to obtain permission before they reincarnateTibet’s living Buddhas have been banned from reincarnation without permission from China’s atheist leaders. (London Times
Posted by admin on August 05, 2007
Lebanese cleric bans honor killings"I view an honor crime as a repulsive act, condemned and prohibited by religion," Fadlallah, the most revered religious authority for Lebanon's 1.2 million Shiites, said in a statement faxed to The Associated Press. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ read more |Posted by admin on August 04, 2007
U.S. Muslims condemn Taliban kidnappingPlease read this entire Washington Post article HERE. Two major and very distinct and separate Muslim groups (Council on American-Islamic Relations -CAIR, and Muslim American Society (MAS) Freedom Foundation, sent unconditional protest of the kidnappings, as well as letters of condolences to the Korean government. "A spokeswoman for the Council on American-Islamic Relations yesterday said the group "condemns the taking of the Korean hostages and demands that the kidnappers release them immediately and unconditionally." "MAS Freedom completely condemns the taking and killing of South Korean Christian hostages in Afghanistan as not only a gross violation of the human rights of these captives, but also a horrible violation of the norms of basic human decency," Mr. Bray said." Of special note is the fact that Christian missionaries are involved in these statements and declarations. Posted by admin on August 02, 2007
IRAQ: Religious Minorities Hit From All SidesIraq is one of the biggest and most incessant news stories of our time. Unfortunately a relentlessly sad story. Posted by admin on August 01, 2007
Kashmiri Pundits given a warm welcome by Muslims in KashmirThis is exciting news! After 17 years of separation due to militancy, Muslims and Hindus have reunited in genuine joy to be back together again! Posted by admin on July 31, 2007
Grand Mufti Ali Gomaa of Egypt says Muslims can choose own religionThis is a remarkable and important development! 24 Jul, 2007 l 1940 hrs IST AFP Posted by admin on July 25, 2007
Halelu chorus video avaliableThe Halelu Chorus is the collaborative work of Composer/Conductor David Eaton, and Singers David D'Or, and Ms. Seiko Lee. (Click read more to learn more) read more |Posted by admin on July 21, 2007
RRC Receives $300,000 From Henry Luce Foundation for Interfaith EducationWyncote, PA, July 18 — The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College has received a $300,000 grant from the Henry Luce Foundation to support a unique and comprehensive initiative to improve understanding among Jews, Christians and Muslims. read more |Posted by admin on July 19, 2007
Hindu prayer, Christians arrested!Here is something quite remarkable! The story speaks for itself. Please read it in its entirety US Senate opens with Hindu prayers; protesters held IANS For the first time in US history the country's Senate opened with the chanting of the Gayatri Mantra from the Rig-Veda, the oldest Hindu scripture composed around 1,500 B.C., even as three Christian protesters who tried to disrupt the proceedings were arrested. read more |Posted by admin on July 13, 2007
Evangelical Christians meet Arab ambassadorsWhat follows is a one sided report (not to say it's unfair or untrue) about what seems to be a good and promising occasion of dialogue. A Significant Meeting Between Muslims and Christians From: Jonathan Falwell Date: July 9, 2007 On Monday, July 2, I attended what I can only pray may become a historic meeting. Several weeks ago, I received a call about attending a meeting at the Egyptian Embassy in Washington, D.C. I was told that this meeting would be hosted by the Ambassador from Egypt and might be attended by representatives of other Arab nations, as well as by 10-15 pastors, evangelists and Christian media representatives. read more |Posted by admin on July 12, 2007
His Holiness builds barriers
clipped from news.google.com clipped from USA Today More reactions here Posted by admin on July 10, 2007
Religious leaders decry violenceLeaders of 5 faiths decry violence in name of religion By K. Connie Kang June 30, 2007 In a historic action, top leaders of five great religions met this month in Indonesia — home to 200 million Muslims — to condemn violence inflicted in the name of religion. The leaders representing Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish and Muslim traditions came from five countries and included former Indonesian President Abdurrahman Wahid and Los Angeles Rabbi Abraham Cooper, associate dean of the Simon Wiesenthal Center. The group said in a joint communique that the world's spiritual leaders have a "special obligation" to denounce "horrific acts" committed in the name of religion. The Los Angeles-based Wiesenthal Center was a co-sponsor of the event. Posted by admin on July 06, 2007
Religious leaders agree they can play bigger role in countering terrorist ideologiesBy May Wong, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 21 June 2007 1950 hrs They were responding to Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng's call for faith leaders to lead the way. Religious and community leaders interact often with their congregation. And with some 50 religious delegates from countries like Malaysia and Sweden here to attend a seminar on inter-faith harmony, Deputy Prime Minister Wong told them they are in a good position to challenge terrorist messages, whenever they occur. read more |Posted by admin on June 22, 2007
Racing to sainthoodThis is an interesting article. It allows us to see some of the details of the process whereby the Catholic Church decides who's a saint. One of the interesting elements is "the Church demands proof of a medically unexplained healing." In this case a case is presented in which Parkinsons is claimed to have been cured. The same disease suffered by John Paul II himself!" John Paul sainthood bid reaches landmark Vatican City - The campaign to make Pope John Paul a saint reached a landmark on Monday as promoters offered proof of a purported miracle but his successor gave no indication he would bend the rules to hasten the procedure. At an afternoon mass for thousands of people in St Peter's Square, Pope Benedict commemorated John Paul on the second anniversary of his death as Church officials formally concluded the first phase of a probe into the late pope's holiness. read more |Posted by admin on April 03, 2007
South Korean religious leaders to visit Pyongyang in MayYonhap, March 27, 2007 Seoul, South Korea - A pan-religious group in South Korea said Tuesday it will send a delegation to North Korea in May to promote inter-Korean religious exchanges. Forty officials from the Korean Conference on Religion and Peace (KCRP) will visit Pyongyang for four days from May 5. The Korean Conference on Religion (KCR), a religious body in the North, invited the group, the KCRP said. read more |Posted by admin on March 27, 2007
Muslim leader says extremist elements here must be tackledThursday February 8th 2007 A PROMINENT Dublin imam has stepped up warnings about Muslim fanatics in Ireland and called for urgent action to tackle the cult of the suicide bomber. The imam and his Supreme Muslim Council (SMC) also yesterday published a '10-point proposal to stop extremism from taking hold', including "publicly naming and shaming imams and other religious leaders who advocate religious intolerance and the subjugation of women". read more |Posted by admin on February 08, 2007
British Imam builds bridges in NorwayThe Chairman of the Islamic Council of Norway, the Imams of Oslo's three biggest mosques and other leaders of the Muslim community last night came for dinner in the IofC house in Oslo to meet Imam Dr. Abduljalil Sajid from Great Britain . He had attended a meeting of the European Council of Religious Leaders (ECRL), and stayed on for four days to work with Initiatives of Change. read more |Posted by admin on January 01, 2007
Married archbishop backed by Moonby Rachel Zoll (AP, December 09, 2006) Parsippany, USA - The renegade Roman Catholic archbishop who was excommunicated by the Vatican after he installed married priests as bishops acknowledged Saturday that the Rev. Sun Myung Moon was supporting his crusade against mandatory celibacy. read more |Posted by admin on December 11, 2006
Pope hopes Turkey trip aids dialogue with MuslimsBy Phil Stewart (Reuters, December 03, 2006) Posted by admin on December 05, 2006
Pope Benedict XVI to hold Vatican summit on married priestsThe Associated Press Published: November 13, 2006 VATICAN CITY: Pope Benedict XVI and top Vatican officials will hold a meeting to discuss requests for lifting the celibacy requirement made by priests seeking to marry or who have already married, the Vatican said Monday. Posted by admin on November 21, 2006
Germany's high court orders reconsideration of ban on church leader Moon(AP, November 09, 2006) Karlsruhe, Germany - Germany's supreme court on Thursday ordered a lower court to re-examine an order banning the founder of the Unification Church from entering the country. German officials denied visas to Rev. Sun Myung Moon and his wife when the Korean-born couple wanted to visit followers in 1995 because Berlin views his organization as a dangerous sect. read more |Posted by admin on November 09, 2006
RP, Pakistan urge creation of an interfaith unit in UNBy Veronica Uy
Posted by admin on November 07, 2006
Straw faces criticism over Muslim veil commentsAM - Saturday, 7 October , 2006 08:11:00
Posted by admin on October 07, 2006
John Paul II and Benedict XVI on IslamFrom BBC News The row [with Islam] has highlighted concerns about the Pope's attitude towards the Church's relations with the Islamic world. The first year of his papacy passed off without controversy. Yet he was quietly planning a number of key changes in the Vatican hierarchy. read more |Posted by admin on September 21, 2006
Can force fell Hizbullah?Sheer might may curb Hizbullah's ability to strike, but it won't eradicate the militant group, analysts say. By Howard LaFranchi | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor As Israel continues to strike inside Lebanon in a bid to rout Hizbullah, the radical Islamist group is using two weapons to wage war: rockets and, more effective, TV images of civilian destruction inflicted by Israeli bombs. The latter "weapon," broadcast over the Hizbullah-run TV station Al Manar to pump up Arab sympathies, may in the end be more powerful than Israel's military punch - a counterpunch to Israel's assertion it can crush Hizbullah through use of force. read more |Posted by admin on July 22, 2006
Tolerance linked to allowing religion's public role6-13-06 Holy See Addresses Conference Held in Kazakhstan Almaty, Kazakhstan -- There can be no religious tolerance if there is not appreciation for both the private and public role of religion, says the Holy See. Archbishop Jozef Wesolowski, head of a Holy See delegation to a conference on tolerance, made that point at the event promoted by the Organization for Security and Cooperation of Europe (OSCE). Posted by admin on June 14, 2006
More Christians joining AIDS fightJune 07, 2006 Churches and Christian organizations have changed their attitude towards HIV/AIDs since the first report on AIDS was published twenty-five years ago, The Christian Post reports. Many churches are now joining the fight against what experts have called ‘‘the worst and deadliest epidemic that humankind has ever experienced.’’ read more |Posted by admin on June 08, 2006
Reflections on the 2nd Jewish-Christian Dialogue of the Middle East Peace Initiative (MEPI) of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Frank Kaufmann The second Jewish-Christian Dialogue of the Middle East Peace Initiative (MEPI) of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) took place from May 17-18, 2006 in the beautiful Olive Tree hotel, 10 minutes from the Damascus gate of Old Jerusalem city. Our 8th floor meeting room was an intimate, sun-drenched space, with floor to ceiling windows on 3 sides of a room that fit our 18 - 20 participants snugly. read more |Posted by admin on June 01, 2006
Religion as recourse: Jail inmates to get yoga lessons, discourses5-14-2006 THE Haryana State Legal Services Authority is considering the possibility of giving exemption from the remaining term oimprisonment to a prisoner in case he or she wants to join the mainstream by bringing improvement in conduct and behaviour. Posted by admin on May 15, 2006
Universal Peace Federation: Jewish-Christian Dialogue3-27-2006 By Frank Kaufmann The recent UPF, Jewish-Christian Dialogue (Jerusalem, March 13 - 14) comes not a moment too soon. The pursuit of peace in the Holy Land, and by extension the region and world, continues to be a pressing matter for the Middle East Peace Initiative (MEPI, founded by Reverend Moon). read more |Posted by admin on March 27, 2006
U.S. and allies press Afghanistan on Christian convertBy Paul Eckert, Asia Correspondent
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States and three NATO allies with troops in Afghanistan urged the Kabul government on Tuesday to respect the religious freedom of an Afghan convert to Christianity who faces the death penalty there. The United States, which counts Afghan President Hamid Karzai as a key ally in the region, raised the case with visiting Afghan Foreign Minister Abdullah Abdullah, calling on Kabul to uphold Afghan citizens' constitutional right to choose their faith. read more |Posted by admin on March 22, 2006
Denmark seeks to mend relations3-13-06 By David R. Sands Denmark is determined to rebuild ties to its own Muslim population and to the greater Islamic world -- and may look to the United States as a model, Danish Ambassador Friis Arne Petersen said yesterday. Denmark found itself at the center of a global firestorm after a local newspaper last fall printed a series of caricatures of the prophet Muhammad. Posted by admin on March 20, 2006
A multi-faith photo to show back homeBETWEEN NUCLEAR weapons and mangoes, George W. Bush took an hour on Thursday after lunch to meet nine Indian men of faith in a closed-door meeting at the Maurya's Sky Lounge at which Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice and US ambassador to India, David C. Mulford were silent spectators. read more |Posted by admin on March 03, 2006
IRFWP Series ReportArts in the Aftermath: The Role of Art and Artists in Creating a Culture of Peace in the Post 9/11 Era" New Yorker Hotel, New York, NY February 15, 2006 Artistic awareness, responsibility, inter-cultural understanding, respect, and self-governance were among the themes touched upon in a stimulating two-hour debate and dialogue, hosted by the IRFWP, and chaired masterfully by New York City Symphony music director David Eaton. read more |Posted by admin on February 22, 2006
Muslims hold protest2-11-06
A Muslim leader in Ireland yesterday called for an end to the violence in protest at the printing of cartoons depicting the prophet Muhammad in newspapers across Europe. Hundreds of Muslim took to the streets of Dublin to condemn the violence, which was sparked by the publication of the cartoons in a Danish newspaper. Posted by admin on February 13, 2006
Making Sense of the Cartoon Controversy2-08-06 From Protests to Recent Elections, Islamists Hold Sway Analysis World leaders were caught off guard by Muslim outrage over 12 cartoons that negatively depicted the Prophet Mohammed in the European press. A torrent of anger and protest has rocked Muslim countries from Indonesia to tiny Lebanon, at times turning violent. read more |Posted by admin on February 08, 2006
The First Lady of Civil Rights Passes On1-31-06
We of the IRFWP extend our sincere condolences for the loss of the great civil rights champion Mrs. Coretta Scott King. This First Lady of the Civil Rights exemplified through her actions, ideals, and integrity the true heart of equality, peace, and world betterment. She joins her husband now, Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the next life, and leaves behind four children as well as a world that will not forget the King legacy and what their victories have meant for all of humanity. read more |Posted by admin on February 01, 2006
"Bush Proclaims January 16 Religious Freedom Day"1-14-2006 Washington, USA - Asserting that “the right to religious freedom is a foundation of America,” President Bush designated January 16 as Religious Freedom Day in a proclamation released by the White House January 13. read more |Posted by admin on January 16, 2006
IRFWP Reception at the Annual AAR MeetingShould religious studies scholars engage in applied research with the intention of positively impacting situations of Interreligious conflict or strife? Posted by admin on December 12, 2005
IRFWP Series Report10-20-05 IRFWP Series on Religion and Peace and Interreligious Dialogue Evacuation of Settlements in the Holy Land Posted by admin on December 12, 2005
Musharraf calls for 'Muslim renaissance'12-08-2005 By Tom Regan
Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has urged the heads of 50 Muslim countries to work out a strategy for a Muslim renaissance. The Daily Times of Pakistan reports that Mr. Musharraf, who made the speech at the Third Extraordinary Summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in Mecca, also called on Islamic countries to ban groups that preach violence or commit terrorist acts in the name of Islam. read more |Posted by admin on December 09, 2005
Ambassadors for Peace Event--Arizona12-03-05
Posted by admin on December 07, 2005
Pilgrims flock to see 'Buddha boy' said to have fasted six months11-21-2005 By Thomas Bell
Thousands of pilgrims are pouring into the dense jungle of southern Nepal to worship a 15-year-old boy who has been hailed as a new Buddha. read more |Posted by admin on November 22, 2005
Synagogue opens its doors to congregation without churchBy Mandy Bolen Although the wind of Hurricane Wilma demolished the building that houses Unity of the Keys church on Flagler Avenue and sent the walls and facade crumbling in on themselves, the congregation of about 120 people has not missed a Sunday service. read more |Posted by admin on November 22, 2005
Jewish, Muslim, Christian leaders meeting in Istanbul commit to bringing peace, not conflict11-07-2005
by Benjamin Harvey Istanbul, Turkey - Jewish, Muslim and Christian leaders meeting in Istanbul Monday said religious figures have an obligation to be the voice of conciliation and peace, and not to incite religious conflict. The leaders met at the beginning of a three-day conference called Peace and Tolerance II, devoted to interreligious cooperation for peace in southeastern Europe, the Balkans and Central Asia - regions that have recently been rife with religious conflict. read more |Posted by admin on November 09, 2005
Tsunami response shows respect for religion, Vatican officials say10-25-05 This "surface" level of interreligious cooperation, in which urgent humanitarian need and related busy-ness to care for victims of natural disaster, suppresses or obscures unresolved, deep seated religious difference is a very good starting point for improving relations among major religious and ecclesiastical communities. read more |Posted by admin on November 01, 2005
Can Iraqis keep it together? Religion and politics a volatile mix10-14-2005 By Harry Levins
But Iraqis are a fractious lot, split along sectarian and ethnic lines. Those fault lines lead some outsiders to question whether any constitution can bring Iraq together. read more |Posted by admin on October 19, 2005
"Egypt may allow first Islamist party"10-06-05 Here is an interesting development involving interreligious matters. Something worth keeping an eye on! by Magdi Abdelhadi Cairo, Egypt - An Islamist party in Egypt - which says a Christian can be head of state in a Muslim society - may become the country's first legal religious party before the end of the year, if a court rules in its favour. Posted by admin on October 10, 2005
"Old Foes, Pope and Dissident, Meet to Find Shared Ground"9-27-05 by Ian Fisher Unlike the JP2 era, news of what the current Pope does surely will tend to be about intra-church affairs, rather than those of the church in the world. There are times when religions breathe out and times when they breathe in. This intra-Catholic encounter involves personages known enough to be of interest even beyond Catholic circles. read more |Posted by admin on September 28, 2005
Religion: Musharraf stresses the need for an end to Inter-Faith friction9-14-2005
New York (AKI/DAWN) - Pakistan's president Pervez Musharraf urged world governments to resolve long-standing disputes and ensure a just distribution of economic benefits if they wanted to fight extremism. “It is necessary to urgently resolve conflicts and disputes, especially where these involve friction between different religions and faiths, for example in Palestine and Kashmir,” he told an international conference in New York on Tuesday. read more |Posted by admin on September 19, 2005
Believers Attend Sunday Services Despite Katrina Devastation09-05-2005 By Rhoda Tse Part of the religious response to disaster.
On the first Sunday since Hurricane Katrina cut its deadly path through several states, leaving a flooded landscape and broken lives, churches held services and gave hope to homeless evacuees. read more |Posted by admin on September 06, 2005
"Lakhs make a beeline for Krishna temples"8-28-2005 New Delhi, India - Platters of sweets and marigold garlands in hand, devotees thronged temples across the country on Saturday to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. Festivities began early at His birthplace Vrindavan with the deity being bathed in curd, milk, honey, khandsari (molasses) and turmeric to the chanting of Vedic hymns in the Dwarkadeesh temple. Thereafter it was shifted to Sri Krishna Janmasthan. Posted by admin on August 30, 2005
How Taize changed the church8/18/2005 By Steve Tomkins Paris, France - The stabbing of a 90-year-old monk would be extraordinary at any time. But Brother Roger, the founder of Taize who was killed on Tuesday, leaves a legacy which is felt in churches all over the world. The influence of the Taize community on the church the UK and throughout the world has been pretty remarkable. read more |Posted by admin on August 19, 2005
Scientists' spirituality surprises8-17-2005 by Jennifer Harper Washington, USA - America's scientists are a surprisingly spiritual group, according to a survey in which almost 70 percent agreed "there are basic truths" in religion, and 68 percent classified themselves as a "spiritual person." Posted by admin on August 16, 2005
World Culture and Sports Festival Succesfully Concludes
Posted by admin on August 09, 2005
Sunnis in Britain Condemn London Bombings7-17-05 By Brian Murphy BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) - Ten days after Islamic radicals carried out deadly attacks on the London transport system, Britain's largest Sunni Muslim group on Posted by admin on July 18, 2005
Pope calls for unity between churches6-29-05 All calls for Christian and/or religious unity, should include in the call an indication of what historical stumbling block to unity, hithertoo insisted upon by the "caller's" community, will now for the first time in history, be abandoned. -Frank Kaufmann read more |Posted by admin on June 30, 2005
RP leads UN interfaith meet6.23.05 Romulo exhorts diplomats on peace, security promotion Arroyo cites peace as basic human need UNITED NATIONS, New York City – Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo opened the United Nations Conference on Interfaith Cooperation for Peace last Wednesday, an unprecedented gathering of government officials, United Nations executives and civil society leaders to discuss the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation in the search for peace. Posted by admin on June 24, 2005
Minorities and Dialogue: A Sense of Shared Vulnerability6-14-05 by Naveen Qayyum What does it mean to be a religious minority with a different faith to Posted by admin on June 14, 2005
Kashmiri leaders from Indian portion arrive in Pakistani partJune 2, 2005 Islamabad-A group of Kashmiri leaders from the India-controlled Kashmir Thursday arrived in Pakistan-administered Kashmir for talks to explore avenues for the settlement of the longstanding Kashmir dispute, the official PTV reported. read more |Posted by admin on June 02, 2005
OIC Will Be Renamed, RestructuredJune 1, 2005 by Sean Yoong Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — The world’s biggest Muslim grouping, the Organization of the Islamic Conference, will be renamed and restructured to make it more progressive and to dispel the notion that Muslims support extremism, Malaysia said yesterday. read more |Posted by admin on June 02, 2005
US$ 1 million to Islamic–Western peace building initiativeMay 23 2005 Press Release - World Economic Forum Dead Sea, Jordan - Leading Saudi businessman and the world’s fifth-wealthiest man, billionaire Prince Walid bin-Talal, is to donate US$ 1 million towards an Islamic-Western peace-building effort from the World Economic Forum's Council of 100 Leaders (C-100). The announcement was made by the Kingdom Holding Company’s CEO at the World Economic Forum in Jordan 2005 held at the Dead Sea. Posted by admin on May 24, 2005
Vatican Conveys Message for Holy Buddhist MonthMay 20, 2005 The Vatican has conveyed its greetings to the Buddhists all over the world on the occasion of the holy month of Vesakh as per Indian lunar calendar and Saka as per Tibetan lunar calendar. The Pontifical Council for International Dialogue has issued a message on the official website of the Vatican read more |Posted by admin on May 20, 2005
Analysis: Nobel laureates meet for peaceBy Claude Salhani PETRA, Jordan -- Jordan's King Abdullah II has modest ambitions: to help forge a new process for global peace and security. Not a small order by any means, even for a king. read more |Posted by admin on May 19, 2005
Middle East Peace Initiative5-12-05 The 14th in-country meeting of the MEPI in Jerusalem. read more |Posted by admin on May 16, 2005
John Paul Put on Fast Track for Sainthood5-13-2005 By Daniela Petroff VATICAN CITY Pope Benedict XVI put his predecessor on the fast track for sainthood Friday and appointed San Francisco Archbishop William Levada as his successor as guardian of church doctrine, the highest Vatican office ever held by an American. read more |Posted by admin on May 13, 2005
Syrian Troops Leave Lebanon After 29 Years4-26-05 The IRFWP is happy to see the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon. We pray for peace among all Lebanese communities, and the emergence of a peaceful and constructive political culture. We also pray that Syria and Lebanon build their future as friends around something far more noble than the shared enmity expressed in the article below. read more |Posted by admin on April 26, 2005
Koizumi Apologizes for Past, to Meet Hu on Sat4-21-2005 Mention of religion is absent in this article, whereas "risk[ing] economic ties worth $212 billion in annual trade," is easily found. This orientation notwithstanding, the IRFWP hails the humility, and conciliatory and courageous sentiment and offering of Japanese Prime Minister Koizumi. We pray for successful meetings between between Messrs. Koizumi and Hu, and pray for ever more peaceful relations throughout Asia. read more |Posted by admin on April 22, 2005
Seoul Officials Visit NK for Bird Flu Talks4-21-2005 Again religion is not overtly mentioned in this article. Nevertheless all signs of thaw and collaboration on the Korean peninsula is happily welcomed. The nuclear threat is a great concern not just for Korea but for the world, more important though is the myriad blessings and abundance that will surely devolve from Korean unification. read more |Posted by admin on April 22, 2005
New Pope Lays Out Vision in First Mass4-20-2005 We of the IRFWP are delighted to read of Pope Benedict XVI's clarion call for Christian Unity, and Unity among the world's religions. Please read Father Moon's letter to the Holy See sent on the occasion of Pope John Paul II's passing read more |Posted by admin on April 20, 2005
Musharaff delivers 'message of peace' to India4-16-2005 read more |Posted by admin on April 18, 2005
Israelis and Arabs Mourn Pope as 'Man of Peace'4-03-2005 read more |Posted by admin on April 04, 2005
China OKs religious instruction for minors(UPI, March 15, 2005) Beijing, China - A spokesman from the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Tuesday that citizens have the right to provide religious education for their children. At a regularly scheduled press briefing in Beijing, Liu Jianchao was asked about China's law and policy regarding religious belief and minors. Posted by admin on March 15, 2005
Physicist Wins Spirituality PrizeThere is no greater challenge to religions and religious believers in the mondern age than to transcend obstacles and distance between religious and spiritual pursuit of truth, and its partner in truth-seeking, namely science. March 10, 2005 By Larry B. Stammer Times Staff Writer Charles Townes, the UC Berkeley professor who shared the 1964 Nobel Prize in physics for his work in quantum electronics and then startled the scientific world by suggesting that religion and science were converging, was awarded the $1.5-million Templeton Prize on Wednesday for progress in spiritual knowledge. read more |Posted by admin on March 11, 2005
Israel Ends Razing of Homes Tied to BombersThe announcement for ceasing the practice of razing the homes of suicide bombers removes a significant stumbling block in efforts to bring peace to the Holy Land. We pray that peace prevails so that neither Israelis nor Palestinians will have to continue to live in a violent political, social, and military environment. By Laura King, Times Staff Writer Feb. 18, 2005 JERUSALEM — Israel announced Thursday that it was halting a practice particularly hated by Palestinians and repeatedly denounced by human rights groups: the demolition of the family homes of suicide bombers and other attackers. Posted by admin on February 19, 2005
Good relations continue between India, PakistanWe are delighted at the news that twin nuclear powers report that bilateral relations are "much better than [they have] been for a very long time," We pray that these natural brothers and cousins achieve productive collaboration which will benefit the entire sub-continent. By UNITED PRESS INTERNATIONAL Published February 13, 2005 MUNICH, Germany -- India and Pakistan have been improving their relations and communications with each other, India's national security adviser said Sunday. read more |Posted by admin on February 19, 2005
Rice says time for Palestinians, Israel to seize "real chance"We of the IRFWP applaud Prime Minister Abbas for having reached "a ceasefire deal with all Palestinian factions." Further we applaud Palestinian leaders of these important factions. We pray for success and continued restraint, and that root causes which inspired the pursuit of violent solutions dissolve before the onset of mutual respect and collaboration among all families in the Holy Land. We praise Secretary Rice for representing US offers of support for Palestinian people. We hope that US aid in the region evolves beyond military support. RAMALLAH, Feb. 7 (Xinhuanet) -- Visiting US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice stressed on Monday that it is time for both the Palestinians and Israel to seize "a real chance" to move toward peace. read more |Posted by admin on February 07, 2005
Koranic duels ease terrorBy James Brandon | Contributor to The Christian Science Monitor SANAA, YEMEN – When Judge Hamoud al-Hitar announced that he and four other Islamic scholars would challenge Yemen's Al Qaeda prisoners to a theological contest, Western antiterrorism experts warned that this high-stakes gamble would end in disaster. Posted by admin on February 06, 2005
Abbas Says Palestinians Will Call Cease-FireThe IRFWP is greatly encouraged by the public announcement of a ceasefire by Palestinian President Abbas and pray for ongoing progress toward peace in the Holy Land. We are further encouraged that this announcement does not come in a vacuum, but rather in the context of ongoing dialogue between Israeli Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz and Mohammed Dahlan, the former Palestinian security minister. We urge all religious leaders and believers to pray for the success of upcoming meetings among Israeli and Palestinian leaders. Further we pray for and encourage the establishment and development of projects and initiatives which allow Israeli-Palestinian cooperation at all levels of society and culture. Feb. 3 (Bloomberg) -- The Palestinians will call a cease-fire in hostilities with Israel when the two sides meet next week for peace talks in Egypt, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said today. read more |Posted by admin on February 03, 2005
Iraqi PM Calls for Dialogue After Historic VoteThe IRFWP applauds Iyad Allawi for his express intent to create a national dialogue to promote harmony and cooperation among Iraq's diverse religious and ethnic groups. We urge all religions and religious leaders both in Iraq and intertnationally to substantially support the noble hopes expressed honorably and in so timely a manner by Iraq's Interim Prime Minister. Mon, Jan 31, 2005 By Luke Baker BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's interim prime minister vowed Monday to unite the country's competing ethnic and religious groups, a day after millions of voters defied insurgents to vote in a historic election. Posted by admin on January 31, 2005
Israel to Return West Bank Cities to PA ControlThe IRFWP prays that conditions for the withdrawal of Israeli security forces from "Arab cities" in the West Bank can be maintained successfully and for the long term. It is our hope that Arab and Israeli young people in Israel and Palestine encounter one another in amicable circumstances absent military and security needs. We are especially hopeful should conditions result in the lifting of travel restrictions within and between Palestinian territiories, as this latter hope has an impact on religious and spiritual life, and freedom for worship and religious responsibilities. Mon, Jan 31, 2005 Israeli Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz announced on Sunday that several Arab cities in the occupied West Bank could be returned to the control of the Palestinian Authority (PA) in the near future. read more |Posted by admin on January 31, 2005
Israel Says West Bank Troop Pullback Possible SoonJan. 30, 2005 JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel is likely to pull back its troops from several West Bank cities within days, Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz said Sunday, in a further sign of cooperation with a new Palestinian leadership. "I think there is an opportunity to create a new reality," Mofaz told Israel Radio after talks late Saturday with Palestinian official Mohammed Dahlan, a former Gaza security chief, on confidence-building steps. read more |Posted by admin on January 30, 2005
Outside View: Rabbis and imams uniteBy Daniel ben-Simon BRUSSELS -- A few minutes before Europe observed three minutes of silence on Jan. 9 in memory of the tsunami victims, Jewish and Muslim clergy who had convened at Egmont Palace decided to join them. Two days earlier, the clergy had come together to seek means of greater involvement for religion to help quiet the bloody Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Posted by admin on January 24, 2005
Israeli and Palestinian Leaders Agree to Peace TalksJan. 11th, 2005 Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon called Mahmoud Abbas today to congratulate him on winning the Palestinian presidential election, the latest sign that the two sides are eager to restart peace efforts after years of stalemate. Since Abbas’ landslide victory on Sunday, Israel and the Palestinians have signalled their readiness to return to the negotiating table. The election, along with the formation of a new Israeli government that includes the dovish Labour Party, have raised hopes around the world that talks might soon resume. Posted by admin on January 11, 2005
Sudan Peace Agreement Welcomed by Major Aid Groups"Peace is about more than a piece of paper it is about a process which must involve civil society organisations and communities." An historical peace agreement was signed in Nairobi, Kenya, on Sunday 9th January between the country's main rebel group the Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and the Government of Sudan. It is expected to mark the ending of the 21 devastating years of war that claimed at least 1.5 million lives and displaced another four million people. Posted by admin on January 11, 2005
Focus on the Family Joins Tsunami Relief EffortJan. 11th, 2005 Colorado Springs, Colorado-- On today's national "Focus on the Family" broadcast, Focus founder and chairman Dr. James Dobson announced the organization's plans to join the tsunami effort. Capitalizing on its unique ability to understand and meet the needs of families worldwide, Focus hopes to raise one million dollars for relief efforts and will provide extensive grief, counseling and family resources for survivors. read more |Posted by admin on January 11, 2005
Many Join One Prayer for Victims of TsunamiBy Marcela Rojas BRIARCLIFF MANOR —In a sign of unity, a small group of people from different religions gathered at the Scarborough Presbyterian Church yesterday to remember the tragic events of last week's tsunami in South Asia and to collectively pray for the victims and their families. About 20 people formed a circle of prayer in the church's chancel, offering up their heartfelt condolences and concerns for the people affected by the disaster. read more |Posted by admin on January 03, 2005
Sharon and Peres Agree on New Israeli GovernmentBy Reuters JERUSALEM (Reuters)- Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon reached a deal with Shimon Peres on Thursday to name the opposition leader his senior deputy, clearing a key obstacle to a unity government able to abandon the occupied Gaza Strip. read more |Posted by admin on December 30, 2004
Sharon Predicts 'Breakthrough' in Ties With PalestiniansBy Steven Erlanger HERZLIYA, Israel, Dec. 16 - Next year could bring a "historic breakthrough" in Israel's relations with the Palestinians, a buoyant Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel said today, insisting that his plan to pull out of Gaza had united the country, even if it had divided his own party. read more |Posted by admin on December 17, 2004
Israeli-Egyptian relations softenBy Barbara Slavin In the boldest sign of a thaw following the death of Yasser Arafat, Egypt will collaborate with Israel in new industrial zones and may soon return its ambassador to Israel. Posted by admin on December 08, 2004
Syria willing to negotiate with Israel, UN envoy says24 November 2004 – Syria is willing to negotiate a peace deal with Israel without conditions, the United Nations envoy for the Middle East said today. The comments by Terje Roed-Larsen, the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, came after a 90-minute meeting in Damascus with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad that the UN envoy described as "warm, creative and constructive." read more |Posted by admin on December 02, 2004
The Reception of the IRFWP at the 2004 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Religion in San AntonioScholars of Religion were treated this week to time in the lovely city of San Antonio. The AAR continues its superior tradition of conference organization, and the town showed itself to be exceptionally well suited to host the 1000’s of guests in attendance. The enchanting Riverwalk, the natural synergy between hotels and housing and the ample facilities of the easily accessible convention center, and finally a great tradition of conference services have all mixed to make a splendid environment for the week of important (if occasionally esoteric) business at hand. Apart from the habit of convention and tourist destinations to find a way to convert every tiny need into another buck out of your pocket, San Antonio is a pleasant venue indeed. read more |Posted by admin on November 22, 2004
UN backing Interreligious DialogueOn November 8th 2004 the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution promoting Interreligious Dialogue. In it they affirm that Interreligious Dialogue constitutes an important dimension of dialogue among civilizations and of the culture of peace. It calls on the interfaith community and the relevant United Nations bodies work together closely. Posted by admin on November 15, 2004
The Passing of Chairman Yasser ArafatSurely intense emotions will characterize reportage on the passing of Chairman Arafat. Judith Miller of the New York Times seems successfully to have navigated away from the extremes, in a first, historical overview of Arafat’s public career. Posted by admin on November 11, 2004
Islam in Europe: Present ChallengesA police anti-terror operation in The Hague has ended with the arrest of two suspects after a violent 14-hour siege, Dutch officials say. Posted by admin on November 10, 2004
Middle East Committee October 5th, 2004Recommendations offered in response to some key problems raised. By Hod Ben Zvi, Secretary General IIFWP, Israel, Tal Zorer and Frank Kaufmann. The distinguished participants from several Middle Eastern countries have engaged in a serious discussion regarding the major problems and obstacles to the attainment of peace between Palestine and Israel. read more |Posted by admin on November 01, 2004
Conference for Mongolian LeadersFrom September 21 – 24, 2004 the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace, and the Interreligious and International Peace Council sponsored its first ever “International Peace Conference for Mongolian Leaders from Around the World.” The subtitle of the conference was “Establishing a World Culture of Heart and Lasting Peace: The Significance of Mongolian History, Culture, and Family Tradition.” read more |Posted by admin on October 11, 2004
Dialogue and Alliance Joined the ATLA Serials collectionDialogue and Alliance has joined the American Theological Library Association’s (ATLA) online full-text journal collection (ATLASerials). Dialogue and Alliance is one of 650 Religious and theological journals, that were considered by the ecumenical clergy focus group organized by the Indianapolis Center of Congregations. It was one of the top ten choices and was thereby invited to join the new ATLASerials collection. Posted by admin on August 26, 2004
IIFWP Assembly 2004The Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace (IIFWP) just finished its Assembly 2004 (Seoul, Korea, July 23 – 27, 2004). It was a stellar event proving to exceed our best expectations. As always (for the last 10 years) the IIFWP (and the IRFWP before that) holds its annual Assembly in the context of the World Culture and Sports Festival (WCSF). Posted by admin on August 06, 2004
New Dialogue and Alliance (Vol. 17-2)A new issue of Dialogue and Alliance is out. The Theme of the new issue is Religion and Social Responsibility. read more |Posted by admin on July 09, 2004
Middle East HeroesIt is a typical scene. Two friends in their early twenties are sitting at a coffee shop, drinking beverages while talking and laughing over inside jokes and events from the previous night. No bystander would have the slightest notion that Laila Najjar, a Palestinian Muslim, and Adi Frish, an Israeli Jew, should be mortal enemies. read more |Posted by admin on June 23, 2004
Interparliamentary Conference on Human Rights and Religious Freedom (IPC)Washington, D.C. – Registration is now available for the Second Session of the Interparliamentary Conference on Human Rights and Religious Freedom (IPC), which will take place in Brussels from August 5 through August 7, 2004. read more |Posted by admin on June 22, 2004
Moses and Muhammad10th Israeli-Palestinian conference The 10th Israeli-Palestinian conference organized by the Interfaith Posted by admin on June 14, 2004
Wackerlin Center for Faith ConferenceProf. Martin Forward, the executive Director of the Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action is informing us of the upcoming conference of his institute and the talk to be given by Professor Ursula King on the topic "What Can Women Do For Religion: Faith, Feminism and Human Flourishing?" read more |Posted by admin on June 10, 2004
Middle East Peace InitiativeThe Middle East Peace Initiative [MEPI] is an ongoing effort by the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace [IIFWP] to support the peace process in the Middle East. During 2003, MEPI sponsored more than 20 projects and programs in Israel, Palestine, and around the world.around the world. read more |Posted by geros on May 21, 2004
Interreligious trip to BaghdadWe received this contribution from a friend. It is a report of an interreligious trip to Baghdad. In the spirit of reconciliation they journeyed there to bring peace to the troubled region. We would like to share this inspiring report with you. Posted by geros on May 21, 2004
Far East Six Nation’s Joint Buddhist InitiativeJunsei Terasawa, a Buddhist monk from Japan, is leading a group of 12 members on a Peace Mission Journey. After completing public events of Goodwill in Geneva, London and Brussels in February this year the Journey will start in Moscow and Kiev going further east to both halves of the Korean Peninsula. This initiative is aimed at creating an international and interreligious civic response to the crises on the Korean Peninsula. read more |Posted by geros on May 21, 2004
1st annual Interreligious Peace Sports Festival 2003In July 2003 Athletes from different nations and different religions came together in Korea to compete in Sports and celebrate the first Interreligious Peace Sports Festival. The Motto of the IPSF was "Creating an Environment of Peace through Sports". Amongst other sports the IPSF included basketball, track and field, badmington, table tennis, tennis and soccer. Posted by geros on May 21, 2004
How Shall Peace be Approached?Recent months have seen rapid development and change in Dr. Moon's orientation toward addressing world problems. A number of major world leaders have collaborated with these developments at one point or another in the process. Posted by geros on May 21, 2004
Parliament of the World's ReligionsThe 2004 Parliament will take place in Barcelona from July 7th to 13th. CPWR Website Posted by admin on April 16, 2004
New Dialogue and Alliance (Vol. 17-1)A new issue of Dialogue and Alliance is out. The Theme of the new issue is Interfaith Theological Dialogue. read more |Posted by admin on April 08, 2004
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
THE Philippines and Pakistan on Monday asked the United Nations Secretary General to create within the UN Secretariat a unit that would "ensure overall coordination and coherence in the UN system's efforts to promote inter-religious, intercultural, and inter-civilizational dialogue and cooperation."
Copyright ©2004 IRFWP. All rights reserved.
Home | Top of the Page