At the close of the annual five-day residential intensive ICJS offers for Muslim, Christian, and Jewish seminary students, we asked participants to share three words that described what they were taking away. One future clergy leader’s answer struck a chord: “Connections. Curiosity. Confidence.” These three words capture the impact of ICJS.
Connections
ICJS Fellows wrestled with questions of justice, compassion, and human dignity, showing how interreligious connections can spark new partnerships that strengthen Maryland (see pages 5 and 7). Future Jewish, Christian, and Muslim leaders also built trust and friendship without shying away from tough topics (see page 8). As Rabbi Sharon Brous reminded us at the Manekin-Clark Lecture, repairing the world begins with the willingness to connect with someone new (see page 6).
Curiosity
From minicourses on Christian theologies of power and resistance, the Muslim Mary, and dialogue in polarized times, we learned that curiosity is not a phase but a lifelong path toward wisdom (see pages 2, 3, and 9). Our goal is to invite more people into that journey.
Confidence
To move forward, people need confidence—and a place to practice that conversation. ICJS creates that space. As one participant reflected: “Through thoughtful dialogue, experiential learning, and leadership development, we are equipped not only to foster interfaith cooperation, but to become agents of positive change.”
Thank you for being a champion for religious diversity. Your support makes this work possible.