Interfaith
dialogue
Waldemar
Niemotko
Interfaith
(interreligious) dialogue could be seen as an exchange of spiritual
gifts. It requires quite a skill in maintaining balance
between a
dialogue and a mission, in adherence to the Magisterium of the
Church. Pope John Paul II stated in March 2000: "What
dialogue
demands of all of us is that, holding to what we believe, we listen to
one another, seek to discern all that is good and holy in each other's
teachings, and cooperate in supporting everything that favours mutual
understanding and peace." The Pope invited the leaders of
different religions to pray together in Assisi (Italy) on 24 January
2002. One of the calls was: "We commit ourselves to fostering
the
culture of dialogue, so that there will be an increase of understanding
and mutual trust between individuals and among people, for these are
the premises of authentic peace." The gathering in Assisi
inspired a similar spirit to prevail in other places throughout the
world. The Australian cultural diversity is coupled with a broad
spectrum of religions being professed. Benefit to participants is the
perspective of learning about people of different faiths and being
present at their ceremonies on praising the Almighty according to
specific rituals. Dioceses, parishes, religious orders,
academia
and community organisations share their views, in print and
online.
The
Catholic Institute of Sydney, Strathfield has announced an
Interreligious Dialogue course for 28 July to 21 November
2008.
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