In one of my courses last week we had an interesting conversation about the flaws on focusing primarily on similarities when studying religion. There is a tendency in modern times to lump everything together and only see how all religions pray and seek the Truth. Although it is true and wonderful that all religions have some basic similarities there is a danger in neglecting the unique difference that make each religion beautiful. As my class discussed, sometimes in today’s society interfaith work means everyone pretending that all faiths are similar enough to get along all the time. This overlooks the important fact that every religion is different and each religion has its own traditions and prejudices. If we neglect to these differences we don’t learn about other religions or begin to understand them we simply tolerate them. I love that at Loyola our interfaith programs celebrate religious difference and bring people together to learn about different faiths. Our programming is about working together but also focused on learning about each other. Looking back on last semester we celebrated our work together through the International Day of Peace and the Better Together Photo Booth event, but we also celebrated our differences in the Tour of Sacred Spaces and Interfaith Trivia. Reflecting on the conversation in my class I am proud of the work Loyola Interfaith has done and continues to do. We are truly working toward understanding and celebrating diverse faiths in wonderful ways.
-Elaina Jo
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