Online Course Format
Our courses are asynchronous, so you can log in any time of the day or night to access the course materials, but they have a weekly Zoom meeting that all are encouraged to participate in (they will be recorded and posted). To facilitate the flow of discussion in the online course forums, each course is divided into units. You will be encouraged to progress through the course alongside the other course participants. A two-week period at the end of the course is provided for you to reflect on what you have learned, to consider how your learning can be applied to your daily life, to give feedback on your learning experience, and to complete any outstanding readings or assignments.
Faculty
Anne Pearson (anne.m.pearson9@gmail.com)
Ted Brownstein (TedBro@aol.com)
Introduction
At a time when religious fanaticism and fundamentalism are spreading, and an ever-increasing number of people consider themselves “spiritual but not religious,” the need to engage in fruitful interfaith dialogue is pressing. The Bahá’í Faith is in a unique position to inspire and support interfaith endeavors because the Faith’s very scriptures contain the imperative to foster interfaith dialogue and names it as one of the prerequisites for world peace.
This course draws on Bahá’í principles as well as the work of interfaith scholars and organizations, journalists, religious leaders and agencies of various faith traditions, to explore how to successfully initiate and engage in interfaith dialogue with people of all spiritual persuasions. Theoretical and practical aspects of interfaith dialogue will be examined from many perspectives. The importance of public discourse on the role of religion in society today will be explored. We will share our insights and perspectives in order to broaden our understanding and increase our participation in and support of interfaith dialogue and service in our local and global communities.
Course Learning Objectives
- To understand the unique Bahá'í scriptural imperative to engage in interfaith dialogue and become familiar with Bahá'í guidance on dialogue activities.
- To gain knowledge and insights about the current landscape of interfaith relations.
- To become familiar with and analyse the aims, approaches and strategies of interfaith dialogue employed by various faith traditions, religious and secular scholars, experts, and organizations.
- To explore the existing organizations (local, national, and international) that provide resources for those interested in interfaith dialogue and collaboration, and to acquire .confidence in using resources to engage in fruitful interfaith activities.
- To gain an appreciation of the benefits and challenges of interfaith dialogue and the distinct role of interfaith dialogue in social discourse.
- To practice and apply your knowledge through involvement in interfaith activities, special research or artistic projects, or presentations to your friends or community.
Tuition: $150 (tuition discounts available)