https://simplecast.com Interfaith Encounters Consequential conversations with leaders from different faith communities exploring how they are engaging the pressing challenges of today’s world. Dr. Robert Hunt, Director of Global Theological Education at Perkins School of Theology of Southern Methodist University, is your host for this exploration of our multi-faith world. 2020 - Robert Hunt Interfaith Encounters en Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000 Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:00:16 +0000 https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com Interfaith Encounters https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/1c333783-75c3-4a21-bd1b-6e3d63c3f5ba/4dbcc6dc-b3ed-44a0-8d10-77920b15011c/3000x3000/podcast.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com episodic Consequential conversations with leaders from different faith communities exploring how they are engaging the pressing challenges of today’s world. Dr. Robert Hunt, Director of Global Theological Education at Perkins School of Theology of Southern Methodist University, is your host for this exploration of our multi-faith world. Robert Hunt no https://feeds.simplecast.com/OlxAG03Z interfaith, dialogue, interreligious, faith, religion, religious freedom, first amendment Robert Hunt roberth@smu.edu e0ec2452-2b84-4070-b4b2-13ff6456d78f Copy of Migration: The Bible, Christians, and Migrants with Dr. Danny Carroll R. Dr. Carroll is half-Guatemalan and was raised bilingual and bicultural. In his youth, he spent many summers in Guatemala and later taught at El Seminario Teológico Centroamericano in Guatemala City for thirteen years. The realities of Central America sparked Dr. Carroll's fascination with the Old Testament. The relevance of the biblical text for the challenges of poverty, war, and politics in those developing countries led him to a passionate focus on Old Testament social ethics and the social sciences.

In addition, his studies in English literature and literary theory have generated an ongoing engagement with literary approaches to the Old Testament and critical studies. Experiences in this country and abroad have led him to a deep appreciation for the unique contributions that ethnic minorities, women, and the global church make to the interpretation of the Old Testament. Before coming to Wheaton, Dr. Carroll taught Old Testament at Denver Seminary for many years and founded a Spanish-language lay training program there. At Wheaton, he hopes to model a commitment to connecting careful biblical scholarship with the mission of the church as it engages today’s complex realities. Dr. Carroll has been involved in Hispanic churches and teaching on the Bible and immigration for many years. His research focuses on the prophetic literature and Old Testament social ethics. He has just completed a major commentary on the book of Amos.

]]> Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Danny Carroll R.) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-bible-christians-and-migrants-with-dr-danny-carroll-r-j0c3wgxt-571nM6Pm Dr. Carroll is half-Guatemalan and was raised bilingual and bicultural. In his youth, he spent many summers in Guatemala and later taught at El Seminario Teológico Centroamericano in Guatemala City for thirteen years. The realities of Central America sparked Dr. Carroll's fascination with the Old Testament. The relevance of the biblical text for the challenges of poverty, war, and politics in those developing countries led him to a passionate focus on Old Testament social ethics and the social sciences.

In addition, his studies in English literature and literary theory have generated an ongoing engagement with literary approaches to the Old Testament and critical studies. Experiences in this country and abroad have led him to a deep appreciation for the unique contributions that ethnic minorities, women, and the global church make to the interpretation of the Old Testament. Before coming to Wheaton, Dr. Carroll taught Old Testament at Denver Seminary for many years and founded a Spanish-language lay training program there. At Wheaton, he hopes to model a commitment to connecting careful biblical scholarship with the mission of the church as it engages today’s complex realities. Dr. Carroll has been involved in Hispanic churches and teaching on the Bible and immigration for many years. His research focuses on the prophetic literature and Old Testament social ethics. He has just completed a major commentary on the book of Amos.

]]> Copy of Migration: The Bible, Christians, and Migrants with Dr. Danny Carroll R. Robert Hunt, Danny Carroll R. 00:16:33 Dr. Danny Carroll R., author of "Christians on the Border: Immigration, the Church, and the Bible" and "The Bible and Borders: Hearing God’s Word on Immigration" gives us a Biblical understanding of migrants, immigrants, and immigration but also explains that many Christians don't seem to read their Bibles. Dr. Danny Carroll R., author of "Christians on the Border: Immigration, the Church, and the Bible" and "The Bible and Borders: Hearing God’s Word on Immigration" gives us a Biblical understanding of migrants, immigrants, and immigration but also explains that many Christians don't seem to read their Bibles. immigration, immigrants, christian, migrants, migration, bible no full 10 11 d5ae46e8-3b54-440d-89d5-70ce67500cb9 Copy of Migration: Islamic Views of Migration, an Ismaili Perspective with Dr. Zahra Jamal Zahra N. Jamal is Associate Director at Rice University's Boniuk Institute for Religious Tolerance, and a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Consultant. An award-winning former faculty member at Harvard and MIT, Dr. Jamal was founding director of the Civil Islam Initiative at University of Chicago, founding director of the Central Asia and International Development Initiative at Michigan State, and Associate Director at The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding’s Center for the Study of American Muslims. Her fieldwork covers voluntarism, migrant labor, gender-equity, and food security in Muslim societies. Dr. Jamal consults on gender, race, and religion for the UN, State Department, Department of Justice, Aspen Institute, Aga Khan Development Network, and private corporations. She has published with Duke University Press, The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and The Hill, and appeared on BBC World News. She received her M.A. and Ph.D. in cultural anthropology and Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard, double B.A. in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies and in Slavic Studies from Rice, and is a Certified Diversity Professional.

]]> Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Zahra Jamal) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/islamic-views-of-migration-an-ismaili-perspective-with-dr-zahra-jamal-knb5rjea-ms39SYHg Zahra N. Jamal is Associate Director at Rice University's Boniuk Institute for Religious Tolerance, and a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Consultant. An award-winning former faculty member at Harvard and MIT, Dr. Jamal was founding director of the Civil Islam Initiative at University of Chicago, founding director of the Central Asia and International Development Initiative at Michigan State, and Associate Director at The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding’s Center for the Study of American Muslims. Her fieldwork covers voluntarism, migrant labor, gender-equity, and food security in Muslim societies. Dr. Jamal consults on gender, race, and religion for the UN, State Department, Department of Justice, Aspen Institute, Aga Khan Development Network, and private corporations. She has published with Duke University Press, The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and The Hill, and appeared on BBC World News. She received her M.A. and Ph.D. in cultural anthropology and Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard, double B.A. in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies and in Slavic Studies from Rice, and is a Certified Diversity Professional.

]]> Copy of Migration: Islamic Views of Migration, an Ismaili Perspective with Dr. Zahra Jamal Zahra Jamal 00:29:16 Dr. Zahra Jamal leads us into a deeper understanding of how Islamic views of humanity, and God, are reflected in Muslim engagements with Migrants. We learn how Ismaili spiritual leaders in the 20th and 21st century have played international role in addressing support for migrants and immigrants. Dr. Zahra Jamal leads us into a deeper understanding of how Islamic views of humanity, and God, are reflected in Muslim engagements with Migrants. We learn how Ismaili spiritual leaders in the 20th and 21st century have played international role in addressing support for migrants and immigrants. muslim, migrant, ismaili, migration, immigrant no full 8 11 44e25193-4fac-4b17-8eb3-d031a157877a Immigration Reprise UMCOR and Immigrants and Migration with Rev. Jack Amick Rev. Jack Amick, Director of Global Migration, United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).  He directs UMCOR’s Global Migration portfolio and represents the global migration work of the General Board of Global Ministries.  In his coordination of Global Migration work, Amick serves on the United Methodist Immigration Task Force, on advisory committees for Church World Service, the board of NJFON, the ACT Alliance Migration and Displacement Reference Group, and maintains relations with several migration/refugee organizations. He has been serving at UMCOR for over seven years, 4 years of which involved the direction of disaster response programs. Amick served as pastor at local United Methodist Churches for seven years. Prior to being ordained as a United Methodist elder, Amick served two years with the Refugee Admissions Office of the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration at the U.S. Department of State and two years as Vice-Consul for Economic Affairs at the US Consulate in Mumbai, India.  As Desk Officer for Eastern Europe at the Peace Corps, Amick designed crisis responses to flooding in Central Europe and post-war recovery in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  In 1985, he volunteered for one year as director of Christian education for the seven Methodist Churches in the Caribbean nation of Grenada.  He has led the response to disasters in different contexts, including managing disaster damage assessments and family services with the American Red Cross.  Amick spent one year working with homeless individuals in the suburbs of Washington, DC.  He has been part of UMVIM teams that responded to needs in Grenada and Liberia as well as in the United States.  Amick has a Bachelor of Arts in International Service and Economics from The American University in Washington, DC, a Master of International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Arizona, and a Master of Divinity from the Boston University School of Theology.  Amick enjoys the outdoors, playing bagpipes, and writing liturgical prayers and poetry.  He is the father of two young adults and the husband of Rev. Susan Amick, United Methodist Deacon, who serves as Chaplain with Wesley Woods Senior Living in Atlanta.

]]> Tue, 12 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Jack Amick) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/umcor-and-immigrants-and-migration-with-rev-jack-amick-x0qwcwqu-IUYq7_s0 Rev. Jack Amick, Director of Global Migration, United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).  He directs UMCOR’s Global Migration portfolio and represents the global migration work of the General Board of Global Ministries.  In his coordination of Global Migration work, Amick serves on the United Methodist Immigration Task Force, on advisory committees for Church World Service, the board of NJFON, the ACT Alliance Migration and Displacement Reference Group, and maintains relations with several migration/refugee organizations. He has been serving at UMCOR for over seven years, 4 years of which involved the direction of disaster response programs. Amick served as pastor at local United Methodist Churches for seven years. Prior to being ordained as a United Methodist elder, Amick served two years with the Refugee Admissions Office of the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration at the U.S. Department of State and two years as Vice-Consul for Economic Affairs at the US Consulate in Mumbai, India.  As Desk Officer for Eastern Europe at the Peace Corps, Amick designed crisis responses to flooding in Central Europe and post-war recovery in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  In 1985, he volunteered for one year as director of Christian education for the seven Methodist Churches in the Caribbean nation of Grenada.  He has led the response to disasters in different contexts, including managing disaster damage assessments and family services with the American Red Cross.  Amick spent one year working with homeless individuals in the suburbs of Washington, DC.  He has been part of UMVIM teams that responded to needs in Grenada and Liberia as well as in the United States.  Amick has a Bachelor of Arts in International Service and Economics from The American University in Washington, DC, a Master of International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Arizona, and a Master of Divinity from the Boston University School of Theology.  Amick enjoys the outdoors, playing bagpipes, and writing liturgical prayers and poetry.  He is the father of two young adults and the husband of Rev. Susan Amick, United Methodist Deacon, who serves as Chaplain with Wesley Woods Senior Living in Atlanta.

]]> Immigration Reprise UMCOR and Immigrants and Migration with Rev. Jack Amick Robert Hunt, Jack Amick 00:18:39 The United Methodist Committee on Relief has become one of the world's largest relief agencies. It began serving people on the move during times of war. Dr. Jack Amick helps us understand how that work continues today. The United Methodist Committee on Relief has become one of the world's largest relief agencies. It began serving people on the move during times of war. Dr. Jack Amick helps us understand how that work continues today. immigration, migration, united methodist no full 7 11 7ee19824-430c-4955-8662-65f720b7f619 Immigration Reprise: The Sikh Response to Migrants and Migration with Manpreet Kaur Singh A Houston native dedicated to the causes of diversity and women’s empowerment, Manpreet K. Singh is a supervising attorney that has tried over 50 cases.  Currently a Chapter representative for the American Board of Trial Attorneys, she also is serving as a director and trustee with the Sikh Coalition. Recognized in 2018 & 2013 as a recipient for the Diversity First Award.  And in 2011 by the Houston Young Lawyers Association, Manpreet has also been a very active member of a variety of Houston and South Asian community organizations.  She has completed the Harvard Leadership Program and the American Bar Association Leadership Academy.

In 2009, Manpreet testified in front of the Texas Board of Education to include Sikhism (the world’s fifth largest religion) in school textbooks, which was then implemented by the Board for 6th and 10th grade levels. Manpreet continues to support this achievement by teaching many of these classes throughout Houston schools. She also conducts outreach sessions for Interfaith Ministries, for law enforcement, and for the Boniuk Center, where she is also served on the Board.  Manpreet also completed the FBI citizen’s diversity academy.

Nationally, Manpreet travels to Washington, DC annually to lobby for passage of the Safe Schools Act to ensure the safety and inclusion of all children in their schools, to advocate for increased diversity and inclusiveness in the US Army, and to have the FBI track hate crimes against the Sikh community, which was accomplished in 2013.  Locally Manpreet testified before Houston City Counsel in support of the Equal Rights Ordinance and was able to bring the Sikh Project displaying portraits of Sikhs across America, in the City Hall Rotunda for six weeks.

Manpreet has also frequently appeared in media to educate about diversity, including being interviewed by several news affiliates and writing op/ed pieces in print media about the effects of the 2012 shooting at the Wisconsin Sikh Gurdwara (place of worship).

In her free time, Manpreet enjoys traveling with her husband, reading, shopping and dancing in public to embarrass her two soccer stars.

]]> Tue, 5 Mar 2024 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Manpreet Kaur Singh, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-sikh-response-to-migrants-and-migration-with-manpreet-kaur-singh-uipcw4re-ny4XsxFa A Houston native dedicated to the causes of diversity and women’s empowerment, Manpreet K. Singh is a supervising attorney that has tried over 50 cases.  Currently a Chapter representative for the American Board of Trial Attorneys, she also is serving as a director and trustee with the Sikh Coalition. Recognized in 2018 & 2013 as a recipient for the Diversity First Award.  And in 2011 by the Houston Young Lawyers Association, Manpreet has also been a very active member of a variety of Houston and South Asian community organizations.  She has completed the Harvard Leadership Program and the American Bar Association Leadership Academy.

In 2009, Manpreet testified in front of the Texas Board of Education to include Sikhism (the world’s fifth largest religion) in school textbooks, which was then implemented by the Board for 6th and 10th grade levels. Manpreet continues to support this achievement by teaching many of these classes throughout Houston schools. She also conducts outreach sessions for Interfaith Ministries, for law enforcement, and for the Boniuk Center, where she is also served on the Board.  Manpreet also completed the FBI citizen’s diversity academy.

Nationally, Manpreet travels to Washington, DC annually to lobby for passage of the Safe Schools Act to ensure the safety and inclusion of all children in their schools, to advocate for increased diversity and inclusiveness in the US Army, and to have the FBI track hate crimes against the Sikh community, which was accomplished in 2013.  Locally Manpreet testified before Houston City Counsel in support of the Equal Rights Ordinance and was able to bring the Sikh Project displaying portraits of Sikhs across America, in the City Hall Rotunda for six weeks.

Manpreet has also frequently appeared in media to educate about diversity, including being interviewed by several news affiliates and writing op/ed pieces in print media about the effects of the 2012 shooting at the Wisconsin Sikh Gurdwara (place of worship).

In her free time, Manpreet enjoys traveling with her husband, reading, shopping and dancing in public to embarrass her two soccer stars.

]]> Immigration Reprise: The Sikh Response to Migrants and Migration with Manpreet Kaur Singh Manpreet Kaur Singh, Robert Hunt 00:16:36 Manpreet Kaur Singh tells us how the Sikh community supports - and deeply empathizes with immigrants and migrants. Manpreet Kaur Singh tells us how the Sikh community supports - and deeply empathizes with immigrants and migrants. sikh, immigrants, migrants, migration no full 6 11 a4048c81-39dc-4746-b17e-622f52957566 Immigration Reprise: Bishop Greg Kelly on Migrants and Immigrants from a Catholic Perspective Bishop Kelly is a native of Iowa and grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He studied for the priesthood in Holy Trinity Seminary at the University of Dallas here in Irving and was ordained to the priesthood in 1982. He served in several parishes in the Dallas area since then and has served as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas since 2016. He has lived in Irving since 2008.

 

Bishop Kelly has been involved with:

  • Dallas Area Interfaith
  • Catholic Charities of Dallas
  • The Diocesan Immigration Taskforce
  • and is on the Board of Trustees at University of Dallas
]]> Tue, 27 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Bishop Greg Kelly, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/bishop-greg-kelly-on-migrants-and-immigrants-from-a-catholic-perspective-isorl8d0-C__WuyVH Bishop Kelly is a native of Iowa and grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He studied for the priesthood in Holy Trinity Seminary at the University of Dallas here in Irving and was ordained to the priesthood in 1982. He served in several parishes in the Dallas area since then and has served as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas since 2016. He has lived in Irving since 2008.

 

Bishop Kelly has been involved with:

  • Dallas Area Interfaith
  • Catholic Charities of Dallas
  • The Diocesan Immigration Taskforce
  • and is on the Board of Trustees at University of Dallas
]]> Immigration Reprise: Bishop Greg Kelly on Migrants and Immigrants from a Catholic Perspective Bishop Greg Kelly, Robert Hunt 00:14:27 Bishop Greg Kelly, Auxiliary Bishop of the Dallas Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church, helps us understand the Catholic theology of immigration, and the practical and political ways in which the church is responsible for the immigrants. Bishop Greg Kelly, Auxiliary Bishop of the Dallas Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church, helps us understand the Catholic theology of immigration, and the practical and political ways in which the church is responsible for the immigrants. immigrants, catholic relief, migrants, catholic no full 5 11 ae9753d3-a4ea-4d3c-8083-7b730d1a98d5 Immigration Reprise: Debra Boudreaux Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Debra Boudreaux is a senior volunteer with the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation. She has more than 31 years of experience working on major projects related to charity, medical care, education, and humanitarian aid. Debra was previously the CEO of Tzu Chi Medical Foundation. She leads Buddhist and Catholic interfaith dialogues and serves as a member of the UN Multi-Faith Advisory Council. She serves as the Board Secretary for Global NGO Executive Committee within the UN DGC NGO venue. She also serves as Board of Trustees of Parliament of the World's Religions.

Debra has visited Thailand Refugee Center, Turkey Refugee School, Malaysia Refugee Health Clinic and TJ Refugee Shelter. She has engaged with Climate Urgency and Climate Refugees, Internal Displacement Population crisis both domestic and International.

Debra graduated from University of Columbia Missouri. She engages in COVID-19 PPE distribution and Vaccination as well experiencing the medical racism at this pandemic crisis.

Debra Boudreaux patterns her daily life under the teaching of Venerable Master Shih Cheng Yen, Respect, gratitude and love to all sentient beings whenever and wherever we can.

]]> Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Debra Boudreaux) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/debra-boudreaux-buddhist-tzu-chi-foundation-minc3dgx-ABT70iM3 Debra Boudreaux is a senior volunteer with the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation. She has more than 31 years of experience working on major projects related to charity, medical care, education, and humanitarian aid. Debra was previously the CEO of Tzu Chi Medical Foundation. She leads Buddhist and Catholic interfaith dialogues and serves as a member of the UN Multi-Faith Advisory Council. She serves as the Board Secretary for Global NGO Executive Committee within the UN DGC NGO venue. She also serves as Board of Trustees of Parliament of the World's Religions.

Debra has visited Thailand Refugee Center, Turkey Refugee School, Malaysia Refugee Health Clinic and TJ Refugee Shelter. She has engaged with Climate Urgency and Climate Refugees, Internal Displacement Population crisis both domestic and International.

Debra graduated from University of Columbia Missouri. She engages in COVID-19 PPE distribution and Vaccination as well experiencing the medical racism at this pandemic crisis.

Debra Boudreaux patterns her daily life under the teaching of Venerable Master Shih Cheng Yen, Respect, gratitude and love to all sentient beings whenever and wherever we can.

]]> Immigration Reprise: Debra Boudreaux Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Debra Boudreaux 00:27:40 The Tzu Chi Foundation is an international organization of volunteers doing relief work among migrants, immigrants, and others in need across many nations. The Tzu Chi Foundation is an international organization of volunteers doing relief work among migrants, immigrants, and others in need across many nations. buddhism, immigrants, migrants no full 3 11 09d2f909-5edf-4513-838b-d56f77052cf7 Immigration Reprise: Anwar Khan and Islamic Relief USA on Migrants and Immigration Anwar Khan President of Islamic Relief USA.  He has more than twenty five years of experience working in the field of humanitarian and development assistance. Mr. Khan has extensive experience in the field: he has traveled to five continents visiting more than 20 countries that have been affected by human conflict or natural disaster zones. 

Before becoming President, Anwar held a variety of leadership roles at Islamic Relief USA, directing Islamic Relief USA’s program efforts; managing its fundraising offices and operations; overseeing its fund development work; and leading the organization as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Khan is the longest serving staff members in the organization.

Mr. Khan has also served on several boards such as Interaction, and was an advisor for U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid (ACVFA), and the U.S. State Department’s Religion and Foreign Policy Working Group. 

Currently, he serves on the board of World Food Program USA, Joint Learning Initiative and the Alliance to End Hunger. He is also on the advisory Council with the City of Alexandria Police and the Advisory Council for Muslim Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University. 

]]> Mon, 12 Feb 2024 17:06:02 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Anwar Khan) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/anwar-khan-and-islamic-relief-usa-on-migrants-and-immigration-npqkirlm-uHJ9Nb8p Anwar Khan President of Islamic Relief USA.  He has more than twenty five years of experience working in the field of humanitarian and development assistance. Mr. Khan has extensive experience in the field: he has traveled to five continents visiting more than 20 countries that have been affected by human conflict or natural disaster zones. 

Before becoming President, Anwar held a variety of leadership roles at Islamic Relief USA, directing Islamic Relief USA’s program efforts; managing its fundraising offices and operations; overseeing its fund development work; and leading the organization as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Khan is the longest serving staff members in the organization.

Mr. Khan has also served on several boards such as Interaction, and was an advisor for U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid (ACVFA), and the U.S. State Department’s Religion and Foreign Policy Working Group. 

Currently, he serves on the board of World Food Program USA, Joint Learning Initiative and the Alliance to End Hunger. He is also on the advisory Council with the City of Alexandria Police and the Advisory Council for Muslim Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University. 

]]> Immigration Reprise: Anwar Khan and Islamic Relief USA on Migrants and Immigration Robert Hunt, Anwar Khan 00:25:18 Anwar Khan speaks about Islamic understandings of responsibility toward Migrants, and the ways in which Islamic Relief fulfills those obligations. Anwar Khan speaks about Islamic understandings of responsibility toward Migrants, and the ways in which Islamic Relief fulfills those obligations. islam, immigrants, refugees, migrants no full 2 11 7870569e-7443-4bb6-a72e-46003ec10234 Immigration Reprise: Julie Raymon of the AJC Mon, 12 Feb 2024 16:56:37 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/jewish-understandings-of-migrants-and-migration-lvmcj621-V_PeILaE Immigration Reprise: Julie Raymon of the AJC Robert Hunt 00:20:07 Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs of the American Jewish Committee helps us understand how Jews relate through their history to migrants and immigrants, and what this means today. Since January 2012, Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs, has served as the lead legislative advocate for AJC’s policy priorities. On behalf of AJC, she has supported the launch of congressional caucuses such as the Bipartisan Taskforce for Antisemitism, the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, and the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance. Regularly on Capitol Hill to advocate for AJC priority legislation, she has helped position AJC as a thought and policy leader in combating global antisemitism and hate, promoting Israel’s place in the world, promoting pluralism, and advocating for strong, principled American global leadership. In addition to spearheading AJC’s outreach on Capitol Hill, Rayman also fulfills a variety of senior political liaison responsibilities for AJC, engaging with candidates and elected officials, crafting and promulgating policy position papers and Party platform suggestions, and spearheading AJC’s events on the sidelines of the Republican and Democratic National Conventions. Before coming to AJC, she was senior advisor to Congressman Heath Shuler, covering foreign policy, human rights, defense, and homeland security. Rayman holds a B.A. from American University as well as a Master’s from the National Defense University in Strategic Security Studies, with a concentration in counterterrorism. She also holds an M.A. from Georgetown University in Religious Studies. Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs of the American Jewish Committee helps us understand how Jews relate through their history to migrants and immigrants, and what this means today. Since January 2012, Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs, has served as the lead legislative advocate for AJC’s policy priorities. On behalf of AJC, she has supported the launch of congressional caucuses such as the Bipartisan Taskforce for Antisemitism, the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, and the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance. Regularly on Capitol Hill to advocate for AJC priority legislation, she has helped position AJC as a thought and policy leader in combating global antisemitism and hate, promoting Israel’s place in the world, promoting pluralism, and advocating for strong, principled American global leadership. In addition to spearheading AJC’s outreach on Capitol Hill, Rayman also fulfills a variety of senior political liaison responsibilities for AJC, engaging with candidates and elected officials, crafting and promulgating policy position papers and Party platform suggestions, and spearheading AJC’s events on the sidelines of the Republican and Democratic National Conventions. Before coming to AJC, she was senior advisor to Congressman Heath Shuler, covering foreign policy, human rights, defense, and homeland security. Rayman holds a B.A. from American University as well as a Master’s from the National Defense University in Strategic Security Studies, with a concentration in counterterrorism. She also holds an M.A. from Georgetown University in Religious Studies. no full 1 11 bf256904-5a0d-46c4-892d-7a45afdb8b76 AI: Human Authenticity in an AI World This episode explores more deeply what it means to be authentic humans in an AI age. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 16:20:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-human-authenticity-in-an-ai-world-3FWVPval This episode explores more deeply what it means to be authentic humans in an AI age. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> AI: Human Authenticity in an AI World Robert Hunt 00:24:59 In this episode we explore what constitutes human authenticity and how AI challenges our human authenticity. AI appears human because it's trained to imitate humans. That doesn't make it human. But it sure challenges us to understand and be more fully authentic in our humanity. Are we redefining ourselves as humans. In this episode we explore what constitutes human authenticity and how AI challenges our human authenticity. AI appears human because it's trained to imitate humans. That doesn't make it human. But it sure challenges us to understand and be more fully authentic in our humanity. Are we redefining ourselves as humans. gpt, chatgpt, neuroscience, lmm, ai, artificial intelligence, human authenticity no full 8 9 87a29816-5c68-4aab-b591-480613e06356 AI: Consciousness, Self-Consciousness, and Algorithms This episode explores more deeply what it means for humans to think about themselves. What does it mean to be conscious? Self conscious? Can an AI be self-conscious? A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 14:25:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-consciousness-self-consciousness-and-algorithms-9dcVJh_Y This episode explores more deeply what it means for humans to think about themselves. What does it mean to be conscious? Self conscious? Can an AI be self-conscious? A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> AI: Consciousness, Self-Consciousness, and Algorithms Robert Hunt 00:17:19 In this episode we explore human consciousness, and self consciousness, and ask if that makes us distinctly human. And we ask whether in the future we'll understand AIs to be self conscious. In this episode we explore human consciousness, and self consciousness, and ask if that makes us distinctly human. And we ask whether in the future we'll understand AIs to be self conscious. algorithms, brain transplant, gpt, consciousness, machine consciousness, machine learning, chatgpt, neuroscience, brain science, ai no full 7 9 35a999b8-33f1-4e4a-b684-90d3a6dffe3c AI: Being Human, Spare Parts and Immortality This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of ourselves as biological machines, and where our true humanity might lie. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 14:20:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-being-human-spare-parts-and-immortality-kSW1xq5X This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of ourselves as biological machines, and where our true humanity might lie. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> AI: Being Human, Spare Parts and Immortality Robert Hunt 00:12:08 AI could be laying the foundation for a new way of understanding human immortality? Are we ready to be virtual humans, living forever in a virtual world? We explore different possibilities for human immortality and what AI brings to the table in giving us the hope of living forever, changing our understanding of what it means to be human AI could be laying the foundation for a new way of understanding human immortality? Are we ready to be virtual humans, living forever in a virtual world? We explore different possibilities for human immortality and what AI brings to the table in giving us the hope of living forever, changing our understanding of what it means to be human neural networks, religion and ai, machine learning, virtual worlds, neuroscience, ai, immortality, artificial intelligence, human authenticity no full 6 9 bd67719a-9f51-4f2d-9faf-3f7deeb9b2b4 AI: The Human Place in the World,Hierarchy or Complexity This episode explores more deeply how we find our human place in the complex relationships that make up our world. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 14:15:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-the-human-place-in-the-world-hierarchy-or-complexity-IWjR3qh3 This episode explores more deeply how we find our human place in the complex relationships that make up our world. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> AI: The Human Place in the World,Hierarchy or Complexity Robert Hunt 00:11:14 Do you know your place in the world? Is it fixed, or changing? Is it God-given or do you get to choose? In this episode we look at the changing ways we understand our place in the world - and how AI is making finding our place even more complex. Do you know your place in the world? Is it fixed, or changing? Is it God-given or do you get to choose? In this episode we look at the changing ways we understand our place in the world - and how AI is making finding our place even more complex. hierarchy, anthropology, religion and ai, dna, machine learning, ai, complexity, artificial intelligence, neurology no full 5 9 088f7414-7f85-43de-a357-f948a57f1b35 AI: The Brain as a Computer This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of our brains as computers, and how computers can be thought of as brains. But is it really that simple?  A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 14:10:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-the-brain-as-a-computer-nunWctrb This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of our brains as computers, and how computers can be thought of as brains. But is it really that simple?  A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> AI: The Brain as a Computer Robert Hunt 00:10:39 What's going on in your head today? Thoughts? Feelings? Dreams? A ceaseless flow of hormones driving and inhibiting electrical impulses? Do you have a mind or a computer in your skull? In this episode we explore how we came to think of our brains as computers, and thus how a computer could become a brain! What's going on in your head today? Thoughts? Feelings? Dreams? A ceaseless flow of hormones driving and inhibiting electrical impulses? Do you have a mind or a computer in your skull? In this episode we explore how we came to think of our brains as computers, and thus how a computer could become a brain! gpt, llm, machine learning, neuroscience, ai, artificial intelligence no full 4 9 257b9d44-c885-4ee3-b10f-418705716a52 AI: Being Human, Being Intelligent This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of ourselves as intelligent, and where our true humanity might lie. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 14:05:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-being-human-being-intelligent-rZ0qhZ0i This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of ourselves as intelligent, and where our true humanity might lie. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> AI: Being Human, Being Intelligent Robert Hunt 00:15:11 For most of Western History intelligence has been understood as a distinctive mark of being human. But what does that mean? And we unique in being intelligent? Our human self-understanding is challenged from two sides. On one hand we are discovering that animals are intelligent. And on the other we are building intelligent machines. What will make us unique? For most of Western History intelligence has been understood as a distinctive mark of being human. But what does that mean? And we unique in being intelligent? Our human self-understanding is challenged from two sides. On one hand we are discovering that animals are intelligent. And on the other we are building intelligent machines. What will make us unique? artificial general intelligence, animal intelligence, agi, gpt, intelligence, llm, machine learning, ai no full 3 9 9aa0a6b7-7919-452d-94d6-cd6644ad3d29 AI: Are Humans Just Biological Machines? This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of ourselves as biological machines, and where our true humanity might lie. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 14:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/are-humans-just-biological-machines-zraw0kBp This episode explores more deeply what it means to think of ourselves as biological machines, and where our true humanity might lie. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

]]> AI: Are Humans Just Biological Machines? Robert Hunt 00:08:53 Are you a biological machine? What does science tell you? What does your religion tell you? What does you culture tell you? that you are an animal, a pile of living tissue, a collection of cells? And if we remove the biological really all that is left is machine. Is that what we are? Are you a biological machine? What does science tell you? What does your religion tell you? What does you culture tell you? that you are an animal, a pile of living tissue, a collection of cells? And if we remove the biological really all that is left is machine. Is that what we are? organ transplant, neural networks, biological machines, modern medicine, machine learning, chatgpt, ai, artificial intelligence no full 2 9 f3954890-ba68-4397-8521-b865ad86d7f6 AI and the Experiment Changing Humanity This episode introduces the ways our human self understanding is taking place. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> Fri, 1 Dec 2023 17:50:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-and-the-experiment-changing-humanity-SSCdEJQK This episode introduces the ways our human self understanding is taking place. A video version is found at http://www.youtube.com/@InterfaithEncounters or http://interfaith-encounters.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> AI and the Experiment Changing Humanity Dr. Robert Hunt 00:08:04 Whether you realize it or not, you are part of an experiment in the creation of a new humanity. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, Jew, Jain, Sikh, Hindu, or Buddhist you are involved. In this episode Robert Hunt looks at how our understanding of what it means to be human is changing in a world of AI. Whether you realize it or not, you are part of an experiment in the creation of a new humanity. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, Jew, Jain, Sikh, Hindu, or Buddhist you are involved. In this episode Robert Hunt looks at how our understanding of what it means to be human is changing in a world of AI. neural networks, biological machines, gpt, llm, machine learning, chatgpt, ai, artificial intelligence no full 1 9 7c96cd75-b56c-478e-9e33-5176b0efb904 Real Humanity in an Age of Artificial Intelligence If we want to know how AI will shape the future we need to think of it less as a computer program and more like infrastructure. Having AI is more like having electricity than like having Microsoft Word. As it is integrated into every task the tasks become easier. I’ve mentioned some of these tasks. But there are many more places that AI is already embedded in daily life. It is speeding up medical diagnosis and designing treatments. It is guiding surgeons. It is balancing loads in power grids. It is doing logistics planning in many industries. It will soon drive our cars and trucks for us. It can already manage our homes. It is and will continue to provide basic services for the house bound and disabled, or for that matter anyone. It is already playing a role in weather forecasting. But it is also in the background in almost every business through its ability to find patterns in large amounts of data.

And in doing these things, if we manage it well, AI will give us more leisure to be human for one another, and to be creative with one another in ways that we do not have time for now. But only if we manage it well. Because like every other advance in human knowledge there is the potential for marginalization. In the recent TV story Andor there is a chilling series of episodes in which humans are used like robots, because it is cheaper and easier to enslave humans that build robots. AI will serve us only if we preserve our humanity. In the UMC we have a prayer that we be “spared from grinding toil that destroys the fullness of life.” AI has the potential to be an answer to this prayer, if we won’t confuse artificial intelligence with human intelligence, or artificial intelligence with human consciousness.

The question isn’t whether we will use it. We are already using it. We are using it even when we don’t know we are using it. The question is how we will use it and whether it will use us. And those decisions will depend on our commitment to understand our own humanity and that of others, and our decision to cultivate that humanity as the fundamental response to our creator’s first command to be fruitful and multiply.

]]> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 13:23:18 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/real-humanity-in-an-age-of-artificial-intelligence-iiip_Pdz If we want to know how AI will shape the future we need to think of it less as a computer program and more like infrastructure. Having AI is more like having electricity than like having Microsoft Word. As it is integrated into every task the tasks become easier. I’ve mentioned some of these tasks. But there are many more places that AI is already embedded in daily life. It is speeding up medical diagnosis and designing treatments. It is guiding surgeons. It is balancing loads in power grids. It is doing logistics planning in many industries. It will soon drive our cars and trucks for us. It can already manage our homes. It is and will continue to provide basic services for the house bound and disabled, or for that matter anyone. It is already playing a role in weather forecasting. But it is also in the background in almost every business through its ability to find patterns in large amounts of data.

And in doing these things, if we manage it well, AI will give us more leisure to be human for one another, and to be creative with one another in ways that we do not have time for now. But only if we manage it well. Because like every other advance in human knowledge there is the potential for marginalization. In the recent TV story Andor there is a chilling series of episodes in which humans are used like robots, because it is cheaper and easier to enslave humans that build robots. AI will serve us only if we preserve our humanity. In the UMC we have a prayer that we be “spared from grinding toil that destroys the fullness of life.” AI has the potential to be an answer to this prayer, if we won’t confuse artificial intelligence with human intelligence, or artificial intelligence with human consciousness.

The question isn’t whether we will use it. We are already using it. We are using it even when we don’t know we are using it. The question is how we will use it and whether it will use us. And those decisions will depend on our commitment to understand our own humanity and that of others, and our decision to cultivate that humanity as the fundamental response to our creator’s first command to be fruitful and multiply.

]]> Real Humanity in an Age of Artificial Intelligence Dr. Robert Hunt 01:04:19 Welcome to Interfaith Encounters, the AI edition. In today's episode, titled "True Humanity in an Age of Artificial Intelligence," we delve deep into the world of AI, exploring its mechanisms, advancements, and impacts. I'll demystify the complexities of artificial intelligence, what it is and where it comes from, right here on Interfaith Encounters. In future episodes we'll explore in more depth how AI may change our understanding of what it means to be human. [Key Search Terms: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neural Networks, Algorithms, Data Processing, Pattern Recognition, Big Data, AI Ethics, Automation, Future of AI] Welcome to Interfaith Encounters, the AI edition. In today's episode, titled "True Humanity in an Age of Artificial Intelligence," we delve deep into the world of AI, exploring its mechanisms, advancements, and impacts. I'll demystify the complexities of artificial intelligence, what it is and where it comes from, right here on Interfaith Encounters. In future episodes we'll explore in more depth how AI may change our understanding of what it means to be human. [Key Search Terms: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neural Networks, Algorithms, Data Processing, Pattern Recognition, Big Data, AI Ethics, Automation, Future of AI] pattern recognition, ai ethics, neural networks, deep fakes, automation, machine learning, ai agents, chatbots, future of ai, ai, deep learning, artificial intelligence no full 1 8 3b515cf0-6592-4963-9e1f-8d16c259196b AI Spiritual Direction with Bruce Tallman The Path to Spiritual Growth and Enlightenment

In the digital age where distractions are at every turn, the journey towards spiritual growth and enlightenment has never been more crucial. Spiritual direction, a sacred practice that has its roots in ancient traditions, offers a beacon of light to those seeking inner peace, purpose, and connection. This transformative process allows individuals to delve deep into their spiritual core, guided by a seasoned spiritual director or mentor. Whether you're exploring the realms of mindfulness, seeking solace through meditation, or are on the path of self-discovery with practices like yoga, the guidance of a spiritual director can offer invaluable insights and direction. The ultimate aim? To align with one's true self, foster a profound connection with the universe, and lead a life of meaning and purpose.

Harnessing the Power of Spiritual Direction in Modern Times

In a world dominated by search engines and keywords, the quest for authentic spiritual content can be overwhelming. However, when you infuse your search with terms like "spiritual direction," "inner peace techniques," "guidance for soulful living," or "deepening spiritual practice," you unlock a treasure trove of wisdom waiting to be explored. For the spiritually inclined, the benefits of such a journey are manifold: improved mental well-being, a deeper sense of belonging, clarity of purpose, and an elevated consciousness. By harnessing the power of spiritual direction, one is not only enriched personally but also contributes to raising the collective consciousness, making the world a more harmonious place. It's about tapping into that age-old wisdom while leveraging the tools of modern times, including Artificial Intelligence if used with integrity. 

]]> Tue, 10 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Bruce Tallman, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-spiritual-direction-with-bruce-tallman-wiVLBDn_ The Path to Spiritual Growth and Enlightenment

In the digital age where distractions are at every turn, the journey towards spiritual growth and enlightenment has never been more crucial. Spiritual direction, a sacred practice that has its roots in ancient traditions, offers a beacon of light to those seeking inner peace, purpose, and connection. This transformative process allows individuals to delve deep into their spiritual core, guided by a seasoned spiritual director or mentor. Whether you're exploring the realms of mindfulness, seeking solace through meditation, or are on the path of self-discovery with practices like yoga, the guidance of a spiritual director can offer invaluable insights and direction. The ultimate aim? To align with one's true self, foster a profound connection with the universe, and lead a life of meaning and purpose.

Harnessing the Power of Spiritual Direction in Modern Times

In a world dominated by search engines and keywords, the quest for authentic spiritual content can be overwhelming. However, when you infuse your search with terms like "spiritual direction," "inner peace techniques," "guidance for soulful living," or "deepening spiritual practice," you unlock a treasure trove of wisdom waiting to be explored. For the spiritually inclined, the benefits of such a journey are manifold: improved mental well-being, a deeper sense of belonging, clarity of purpose, and an elevated consciousness. By harnessing the power of spiritual direction, one is not only enriched personally but also contributes to raising the collective consciousness, making the world a more harmonious place. It's about tapping into that age-old wisdom while leveraging the tools of modern times, including Artificial Intelligence if used with integrity. 

]]> AI Spiritual Direction with Bruce Tallman Bruce Tallman, Robert Hunt 00:32:43 Bruce Tallman, spiritual director and author of God's Ecstatic Love discusses spiritual direction and how AI will interface with spirituality in the future. Bruce Tallman, spiritual director and author of God's Ecstatic Love discusses spiritual direction and how AI will interface with spirituality in the future. spirituality, spiritual direction, artificial intelligence no full 7 7 7d866db3-24ef-41d7-9215-9cb23b34c14e AI - Bruce Ledewitz and Arc of the Universe The Moral Arc of the Universe: A Timeless Quest for Justice

Throughout history, the concept that "the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice" has resonated deeply with activists, philosophers, and change-makers across the globe. This profound statement, often associated with Martin Luther King Jr., encapsulates the ever-evolving journey of humanity towards fairness, equity, and righteousness. In today's digital era, as users turn to search engines with queries like "historical movements for justice," "evolution of human rights," or "timeline of moral progression," it's evident that the quest to understand and contribute to this moral trajectory remains as relevant as ever. The moral arc becomes a focal point of discourse, reflecting the collective desire for a world where justice prevails over prejudice.

Modern Interpretations of the Moral Arc and its Significance

In an interconnected world powered by information, search trends like "moral universe in the 21st century," "social justice evolution," and "impact of technology on morality" highlight society's attempts to grapple with contemporary moral dilemmas. With advancements in technology and increased global communication, the concept of the moral arc is undergoing continuous introspection and reinterpretation. Now, more than ever, individuals and communities have the tools at their fingertips—literally—to influence the bending of this arc. Each click, share, and digital interaction serves as a testament to humanity's enduring commitment to shape a just and equitable future. The digital age, with its vast potential and challenges, offers unprecedented opportunities to expedite the journey along this moral arc, ensuring that the bend towards justice is not just an aspiration but a tangible reality.

]]> Tue, 3 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Bruce Ledewitz, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-bruce-ledewitz-and-arc-of-the-universe-Up47zLbY The Moral Arc of the Universe: A Timeless Quest for Justice

Throughout history, the concept that "the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice" has resonated deeply with activists, philosophers, and change-makers across the globe. This profound statement, often associated with Martin Luther King Jr., encapsulates the ever-evolving journey of humanity towards fairness, equity, and righteousness. In today's digital era, as users turn to search engines with queries like "historical movements for justice," "evolution of human rights," or "timeline of moral progression," it's evident that the quest to understand and contribute to this moral trajectory remains as relevant as ever. The moral arc becomes a focal point of discourse, reflecting the collective desire for a world where justice prevails over prejudice.

Modern Interpretations of the Moral Arc and its Significance

In an interconnected world powered by information, search trends like "moral universe in the 21st century," "social justice evolution," and "impact of technology on morality" highlight society's attempts to grapple with contemporary moral dilemmas. With advancements in technology and increased global communication, the concept of the moral arc is undergoing continuous introspection and reinterpretation. Now, more than ever, individuals and communities have the tools at their fingertips—literally—to influence the bending of this arc. Each click, share, and digital interaction serves as a testament to humanity's enduring commitment to shape a just and equitable future. The digital age, with its vast potential and challenges, offers unprecedented opportunities to expedite the journey along this moral arc, ensuring that the bend towards justice is not just an aspiration but a tangible reality.

]]> AI - Bruce Ledewitz and Arc of the Universe Bruce Ledewitz, Robert Hunt 00:37:10 Bruce Ledewitz, author of The Universe is on our Side, discusses the moral arc of the universe, the problem of meaning, and the influence of AI. Bruce Ledewitz, author of The Universe is on our Side, discusses the moral arc of the universe, the problem of meaning, and the influence of AI. process philosophy, death of god, god, moral arc of the universe, faith, artificial intelligence no full 8 7 1fe27b78-ddec-44ca-9da1-3152bd62d523 AI - Christian Ministry and Theological Education In recent years, the infusion of artificial intelligence (AI) into various sectors has been transformative, and Christian ministry is no exception. Digital evangelism has been given a new edge with AI-powered chatbots, offering real-time scriptural references, answering theological questions, and providing personalized spiritual guidance. The demand for search terms such as "Christian AI chatbot," "Bible study AI tools," and "digital evangelism AI" has skyrocketed, indicating the growing interest in these innovations. Additionally, predictive analytics and machine learning are aiding churches and ministries in forecasting trends, optimizing outreach strategies, and even in the personalization of sermons, making the gospel more accessible and engaging to the digital age populace.

As Christian ministries delve deeper into the digital sphere, optimizing their online presence becomes imperative. Employing search engine optimization (SEO) techniques tailored to AI-powered searches can drastically improve the online visibility of church websites, digital sermons, and theological resources. Voice search optimization, for instance, is vital given the proliferation of AI-driven voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. It's essential to incorporate long-tail keywords like "how to integrate AI in church outreach" or "Christian teachings on artificial intelligence ethics." Furthermore, the use of AI in analyzing website traffic patterns, user engagement, and content relevancy can help ministries fine-tune their content, ensuring they reach a wider audience and truly harness the transformative potential of the AI era.

But can and AI driven church maintain its humanizing mission? 

 

]]> Tue, 15 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Michaela Callahan, Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-christian-ministry-and-theological-education-BucEQ55K In recent years, the infusion of artificial intelligence (AI) into various sectors has been transformative, and Christian ministry is no exception. Digital evangelism has been given a new edge with AI-powered chatbots, offering real-time scriptural references, answering theological questions, and providing personalized spiritual guidance. The demand for search terms such as "Christian AI chatbot," "Bible study AI tools," and "digital evangelism AI" has skyrocketed, indicating the growing interest in these innovations. Additionally, predictive analytics and machine learning are aiding churches and ministries in forecasting trends, optimizing outreach strategies, and even in the personalization of sermons, making the gospel more accessible and engaging to the digital age populace.

As Christian ministries delve deeper into the digital sphere, optimizing their online presence becomes imperative. Employing search engine optimization (SEO) techniques tailored to AI-powered searches can drastically improve the online visibility of church websites, digital sermons, and theological resources. Voice search optimization, for instance, is vital given the proliferation of AI-driven voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. It's essential to incorporate long-tail keywords like "how to integrate AI in church outreach" or "Christian teachings on artificial intelligence ethics." Furthermore, the use of AI in analyzing website traffic patterns, user engagement, and content relevancy can help ministries fine-tune their content, ensuring they reach a wider audience and truly harness the transformative potential of the AI era.

But can and AI driven church maintain its humanizing mission? 

 

]]> AI - Christian Ministry and Theological Education Michaela Callahan, Dr. Robert Hunt 00:20:46 Michaela Callahan, a student at Perkins School of Theology discusses her own take on the effect of AI on Christian Ministry and her own theological education. What does it all mean for the future of faith, and more importantly the future of humanity. Michaela Callahan, a student at Perkins School of Theology discusses her own take on the effect of AI on Christian Ministry and her own theological education. What does it all mean for the future of faith, and more importantly the future of humanity. christian theology, christian mission, ai and the future?, ai and education, ai, christian ministry no full 6 7 466e36cc-5736-41d4-baca-d4dafdc2415e AI - Two Muslim students on AI and Islamic Teaching Artificial Intelligence (AI), on the other hand, is a cutting-edge technology that has revolutionized various industries and aspects of human life. AI is the simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that typically require human cognitive abilities, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. As AI continues to advance, its impact on society and religion, including Islam, has become a subject of interest and exploration. In this episode we delve into the intersection of Islam and AI, exploring how these two seemingly distinct entities may influence and shape each other in the modern world.

Islam, one of the world's major monotheistic religions, traces its origins back to the 7th century in the Arabian Peninsula. With over a billion followers globally, Islam is characterized by its belief in the oneness of Allah (God) and the guidance provided by the Prophet Muhammad through the holy scripture known as the Quran. The Islamic faith encompasses a comprehensive way of life, covering spiritual, moral, social, and legal aspects, making it an integral part of the lives of its adherents.

 

]]> Tue, 25 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Youssef Galal, Dr. Robert Hunt, Zine Eddine Mohammed Brahmi) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-twp-muslim-students-and-islamic-teaching-cb8jsc93 Artificial Intelligence (AI), on the other hand, is a cutting-edge technology that has revolutionized various industries and aspects of human life. AI is the simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that typically require human cognitive abilities, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. As AI continues to advance, its impact on society and religion, including Islam, has become a subject of interest and exploration. In this episode we delve into the intersection of Islam and AI, exploring how these two seemingly distinct entities may influence and shape each other in the modern world.

Islam, one of the world's major monotheistic religions, traces its origins back to the 7th century in the Arabian Peninsula. With over a billion followers globally, Islam is characterized by its belief in the oneness of Allah (God) and the guidance provided by the Prophet Muhammad through the holy scripture known as the Quran. The Islamic faith encompasses a comprehensive way of life, covering spiritual, moral, social, and legal aspects, making it an integral part of the lives of its adherents.

 

]]> AI - Two Muslim students on AI and Islamic Teaching Youssef Galal, Dr. Robert Hunt, Zine Eddine Mohammed Brahmi 00:20:36 Zine Eddine Mohammed Brahmi and Youssef Galal, students at SMU, discuss with Dr. Hunt how AI affects their lives, and how it might affect their religion. Zine Eddine Mohammed Brahmi and Youssef Galal, students at SMU, discuss with Dr. Hunt how AI affects their lives, and how it might affect their religion. muslim, islam, smu, ai, artificial intelligence no full 5 7 61fad100-2700-4680-b45b-da8b1ddd984c AI - Four University Students from the Jewish Community Reflect Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Judaism may seem like unlikely bedfellows at first glance, but upon closer examination, one can uncover intriguing connections and discussions. 

One of the fundamental questions surrounding AI and Judaism revolves around the concept of human uniqueness. Judaism places a strong emphasis on the belief that humans are created in the image of God, endowing them with a divine spark and unique qualities. With the rise of AI, some individuals have expressed concerns about the potential blurring of lines between human and machine, challenging this notion of human exceptionalism.

Another topic of interest lies in the ethical implications of AI. Judaism has a rich ethical tradition, emphasizing the importance of justice, compassion, and responsibility. As AI systems become more sophisticated and autonomous, questions arise about how they should be programmed to adhere to these ethical principles. Jewish scholars and thinkers are engaging in discussions on the ethical guidelines that should govern the development and deployment of AI technology, ensuring that it aligns with Jewish values.

Moreover, AI has the potential to assist in various areas of Jewish practice. For example, AI-powered tools can aid in textual analysis, allowing scholars to delve deeper into ancient texts and uncover new insights. Virtual assistants and chatbots can provide individuals with instant access to Jewish teachings, rituals, and prayers, enhancing their religious experiences. Additionally, AI can help in the preservation and restoration of historical Jewish sites, artifacts, and documents, contributing to the continuity of Jewish heritage.

However, along with these opportunities, there are also challenges to be addressed. Jewish tradition places great value on human relationships, community, and the personal nature of religious observance. The increasing reliance on AI for religious guidance or interaction may raise concerns about the loss of these essential human connections.

In conclusion, the convergence of AI and Judaism invites a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of technology on religious beliefs, practices, and ethics. As Jewish communities navigate the ever-evolving landscape of AI, they grapple with questions of human uniqueness, ethical considerations, and the balance between tradition and innovation. By engaging in meaningful conversations and embracing a thoughtful approach, Judaism has the potential to harness the benefits of AI while preserving its core values and fostering a vibrant and dynamic religious life in the digital age.

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Nathan Pupko, Dean Sandler, Jonathon Zanzuri, Jordan Wartell, Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-four-university-students-from-the-jewish-community-reflect-_QmDqS51 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Judaism may seem like unlikely bedfellows at first glance, but upon closer examination, one can uncover intriguing connections and discussions. 

One of the fundamental questions surrounding AI and Judaism revolves around the concept of human uniqueness. Judaism places a strong emphasis on the belief that humans are created in the image of God, endowing them with a divine spark and unique qualities. With the rise of AI, some individuals have expressed concerns about the potential blurring of lines between human and machine, challenging this notion of human exceptionalism.

Another topic of interest lies in the ethical implications of AI. Judaism has a rich ethical tradition, emphasizing the importance of justice, compassion, and responsibility. As AI systems become more sophisticated and autonomous, questions arise about how they should be programmed to adhere to these ethical principles. Jewish scholars and thinkers are engaging in discussions on the ethical guidelines that should govern the development and deployment of AI technology, ensuring that it aligns with Jewish values.

Moreover, AI has the potential to assist in various areas of Jewish practice. For example, AI-powered tools can aid in textual analysis, allowing scholars to delve deeper into ancient texts and uncover new insights. Virtual assistants and chatbots can provide individuals with instant access to Jewish teachings, rituals, and prayers, enhancing their religious experiences. Additionally, AI can help in the preservation and restoration of historical Jewish sites, artifacts, and documents, contributing to the continuity of Jewish heritage.

However, along with these opportunities, there are also challenges to be addressed. Jewish tradition places great value on human relationships, community, and the personal nature of religious observance. The increasing reliance on AI for religious guidance or interaction may raise concerns about the loss of these essential human connections.

In conclusion, the convergence of AI and Judaism invites a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of technology on religious beliefs, practices, and ethics. As Jewish communities navigate the ever-evolving landscape of AI, they grapple with questions of human uniqueness, ethical considerations, and the balance between tradition and innovation. By engaging in meaningful conversations and embracing a thoughtful approach, Judaism has the potential to harness the benefits of AI while preserving its core values and fostering a vibrant and dynamic religious life in the digital age.

]]> AI - Four University Students from the Jewish Community Reflect Nathan Pupko, Dean Sandler, Jonathon Zanzuri, Jordan Wartell, Dr. Robert Hunt 00:40:18 Four SMU students: Nathan Pupko, Dean Sandler, Jonas Zanzuri, and Jordan Wartell discuss how AI has revolutionized student life, but more importantly how it may affect their religion and their religious faith. AI and Judaism - there is a lot to learn. Four SMU students: Nathan Pupko, Dean Sandler, Jonas Zanzuri, and Jordan Wartell discuss how AI has revolutionized student life, but more importantly how it may affect their religion and their religious faith. AI and Judaism - there is a lot to learn. smu, future of religion, judaism, ai no full 4 7 bdb22f97-7ad8-4fb5-9955-407b48bbf2fd AI - Three High School Students discuss AI and Faith Rizwan Khan leads a discussion with two friends, Khosraw Azizi and Maxwell Stephen on their experience with AI. They discuss its effect on the personal lives, their social lives, their school work, and even their professional aspirations. But most of all they wonder if it will erode and even eliminate religious faith and human to human contact. They conclude, to quote Springsteen, that everyone needs a human touch. 

]]> Tue, 27 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-three-high-school-students-discuss-ai-and-faith-cfYGnSpe Rizwan Khan leads a discussion with two friends, Khosraw Azizi and Maxwell Stephen on their experience with AI. They discuss its effect on the personal lives, their social lives, their school work, and even their professional aspirations. But most of all they wonder if it will erode and even eliminate religious faith and human to human contact. They conclude, to quote Springsteen, that everyone needs a human touch. 

]]> AI - Three High School Students discuss AI and Faith Robert Hunt 00:31:16 Three high school friends discuss their experience with AI, and how it might affect their religious faith and relationships with one another. Three high school friends discuss their experience with AI, and how it might affect their religious faith and relationships with one another. no full 3 7 fd3649e9-1cb1-40b9-854a-a52dda7577c7 AI - University Students on AI and their Faith AI is influencing every aspect of life for university students, not least their religious lives. in this episode three current students discuss the impact of AI on religion - both positively and negatively. They wonder if robots can perform worship, whether bad actors will use AI to distort religion, and whether it might still offer a positive service to religious life. 

]]> Tue, 20 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Krithi Choudhary, Nikhil Nandigama, Akash Singhania, Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-university-students-on-ai-and-their-faith-F_4mIlT1 AI is influencing every aspect of life for university students, not least their religious lives. in this episode three current students discuss the impact of AI on religion - both positively and negatively. They wonder if robots can perform worship, whether bad actors will use AI to distort religion, and whether it might still offer a positive service to religious life. 

]]> AI - University Students on AI and their Faith Krithi Choudhary, Nikhil Nandigama, Akash Singhania, Dr. Robert Hunt 00:30:13 The SMU students discuss how they see AI influencing their religion and religious faith. Is AI part of a downward spiral during the Kalik Yuga? Does it have potential to help religious faith? Can robots worship God? All this and more. The SMU students discuss how they see AI influencing their religion and religious faith. Is AI part of a downward spiral during the Kalik Yuga? Does it have potential to help religious faith? Can robots worship God? All this and more. hinduism, gen z, iskon, ai, artificial intelligence no full 2 7 b07c4dd4-677a-4af3-bc0f-5c313e624d39 AI - Dr. Angela Patterson on Gen Z in an AI World Dr. Angela Patterson is a media psychologist who specializes in technology’s effects on religious and spiritual development. A career communicator, Angela worked as a newspaper reporter and corporate/nonprofit communications professional for 13 years before earning her doctorate from media psychology from Fielding Graduate University.

Originally from Lubbock, Texas, Angela earned degrees in journalism from the University of Southern Mississippi and Indiana University before starting her career. While the written word will always be her primary passion, she describes her life mission as “using my gifts and talents to help people of all ages lead their best spiritual lives.”

Describing her involvement with Springtide, Angela says, “I’m grateful to be in a position where I can share the wealth of knowledge that Springtide provides with the people who need and want it most. I believe our young people are showing us a blueprint of how religion and spirituality may take shape in the future, and it’s exciting to be a part of documenting that and sharing it with the world.”

Angela lives in Dallas, TX, but is often traveling across the U.S. and abroad. When at home, she loves enjoying the Texas delicacies of barbecue and Tex-Mex or cooking up her own creations.

]]> Tue, 6 Jun 2023 05:05:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Dr. Angela Patterson, Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/ai-dr-angela-patterson-on-gen-z-in-an-ai-world-16_IrB9F Dr. Angela Patterson is a media psychologist who specializes in technology’s effects on religious and spiritual development. A career communicator, Angela worked as a newspaper reporter and corporate/nonprofit communications professional for 13 years before earning her doctorate from media psychology from Fielding Graduate University.

Originally from Lubbock, Texas, Angela earned degrees in journalism from the University of Southern Mississippi and Indiana University before starting her career. While the written word will always be her primary passion, she describes her life mission as “using my gifts and talents to help people of all ages lead their best spiritual lives.”

Describing her involvement with Springtide, Angela says, “I’m grateful to be in a position where I can share the wealth of knowledge that Springtide provides with the people who need and want it most. I believe our young people are showing us a blueprint of how religion and spirituality may take shape in the future, and it’s exciting to be a part of documenting that and sharing it with the world.”

Angela lives in Dallas, TX, but is often traveling across the U.S. and abroad. When at home, she loves enjoying the Texas delicacies of barbecue and Tex-Mex or cooking up her own creations.

]]> AI - Dr. Angela Patterson on Gen Z in an AI World Dr. Angela Patterson, Dr. Robert Hunt 00:49:47 Dr. Angela Patterson of the Springtide Research Institute briefs us on their latest findings about how Gen Z is navigating a world of social media and artificial intelligence. Dr. Angela Patterson of the Springtide Research Institute briefs us on their latest findings about how Gen Z is navigating a world of social media and artificial intelligence. social media, religion, gen z, inclusion, lgbtq, ai, artificial intelligence no full 1 7 268d4a8c-4711-4326-a45d-70f97c65d0a3 Gen Z - Four Muslim Women and Reality Sarah Suleman, Afia Ansari, Mediha Siddique and Aisha Ahmend came into the Interfaith Encounters studio for a frank discussion of the issue most on their minds as young Muslim women. Their discussion ranges from the meaning of hijab, to religious identity, exclusion and inclusion, and how being in a Christian nation affects their human rights. It is an often surprising conversation that takes us from going to Muslim high school to a college lab to the way the streets of Iran affect Muslim women on the streets of America. 

]]> Tue, 15 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Sarah Suleman, Afia Ansari, Media Siddique, Aisha Ahmed) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-four-muslim-women-and-reality-SE2yK3rU Sarah Suleman, Afia Ansari, Mediha Siddique and Aisha Ahmend came into the Interfaith Encounters studio for a frank discussion of the issue most on their minds as young Muslim women. Their discussion ranges from the meaning of hijab, to religious identity, exclusion and inclusion, and how being in a Christian nation affects their human rights. It is an often surprising conversation that takes us from going to Muslim high school to a college lab to the way the streets of Iran affect Muslim women on the streets of America. 

]]> Gen Z - Four Muslim Women and Reality Robert Hunt, Sarah Suleman, Afia Ansari, Media Siddique, Aisha Ahmed 00:23:51 Sarah Suleman, Afia Ansari, Mediha Siddique, and Aisha Ahmed, four American Muslim women of Gen Z talk about hijab, religious freedom, prejudice, and feminism in their world of high school and university. Sarah Suleman, Afia Ansari, Mediha Siddique, and Aisha Ahmed, four American Muslim women of Gen Z talk about hijab, religious freedom, prejudice, and feminism in their world of high school and university. feminism, muslim, religious freedom, gen z, hijab no full 9 6 1b423773-b579-4945-bb67-5d429b5b5a99 Gen Z - Chaplain Lisa Garvin The Rev. Lisa Garvin joined SMU on Oct. 19,  2020 as chaplain and minister to the University, the first woman to serve in the role.

SMU’s chaplain and minister to the University serves the entire SMU community, working with diverse campus religious organizations that support and nurture students in the development of faith and ethics. Building on SMU’s deep roots in the United Methodist tradition, Rev. Garvin is expanding the table of religious life at SMU and engaging the community’s rich diversity to foster spiritual life on The Hilltop.   
  
Garvin holds a bachelor degree in European Studies from Millsaps College.  She also holds a Master of Divinity degree from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and a Juris Master in Human Rights from Emory University School of Law. In 2015-2016, Garvin was participated in the HERS:  Leadership Institute, a selective leadership program for women in higher education administration.  In 2018, Garvin was selected as a KAICIID International Interfaith Fellow where, with 20 religious leaders from 13 countries and eight different religious traditions, she honed her skills for facilitating interreligious dialogue and developing leaders who advocate for peace in their communities.  

Garvin has a lifelong commitment to church-related higher education. A native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Garvin previously served Emory University as associate dean of the chapel and religious life (2012-2020) and her alma mater, Millsaps College, as college chaplain (2005-2008). She also served the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church as director of ministerial Services (2008-2012).  Garvin is an ordained deacon in the United Methodist Church and currently serves as a director of its General Board of Church and Society chairing the board’s Advocacy Work Area.  As a Trustee at Millsaps College (2010-2018), Garvin chaired the Student Affairs Committee.

Garvin has a special interest in human rights and racial justice, and has led travel seminars to South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the U.S.-Mexico border and Cuba

]]> Tue, 8 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Lisa Garvin, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-chaplain-lisa-garvin-Y0RiC9NS The Rev. Lisa Garvin joined SMU on Oct. 19,  2020 as chaplain and minister to the University, the first woman to serve in the role.

SMU’s chaplain and minister to the University serves the entire SMU community, working with diverse campus religious organizations that support and nurture students in the development of faith and ethics. Building on SMU’s deep roots in the United Methodist tradition, Rev. Garvin is expanding the table of religious life at SMU and engaging the community’s rich diversity to foster spiritual life on The Hilltop.   
  
Garvin holds a bachelor degree in European Studies from Millsaps College.  She also holds a Master of Divinity degree from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and a Juris Master in Human Rights from Emory University School of Law. In 2015-2016, Garvin was participated in the HERS:  Leadership Institute, a selective leadership program for women in higher education administration.  In 2018, Garvin was selected as a KAICIID International Interfaith Fellow where, with 20 religious leaders from 13 countries and eight different religious traditions, she honed her skills for facilitating interreligious dialogue and developing leaders who advocate for peace in their communities.  

Garvin has a lifelong commitment to church-related higher education. A native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Garvin previously served Emory University as associate dean of the chapel and religious life (2012-2020) and her alma mater, Millsaps College, as college chaplain (2005-2008). She also served the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church as director of ministerial Services (2008-2012).  Garvin is an ordained deacon in the United Methodist Church and currently serves as a director of its General Board of Church and Society chairing the board’s Advocacy Work Area.  As a Trustee at Millsaps College (2010-2018), Garvin chaired the Student Affairs Committee.

Garvin has a special interest in human rights and racial justice, and has led travel seminars to South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the U.S.-Mexico border and Cuba

]]> Gen Z - Chaplain Lisa Garvin Lisa Garvin, Robert Hunt 00:25:55 Looking for integrity? So is Gen Z. Chaplain Lisa Garvin shares her insights after more than two decades of ministry with Millennials and Gen Z. They don't dismiss religion, but they don't necessarily trust it either. Looking for integrity? So is Gen Z. Chaplain Lisa Garvin shares her insights after more than two decades of ministry with Millennials and Gen Z. They don't dismiss religion, but they don't necessarily trust it either. millenial, gen z, interfaith, smu, genz, interreligious no full 8 6 6e3904b9-ddc1-40f6-bc50-fb08c3bc2dcb Gen Z - Nathan Pupko Ginsberg Nathan Pupko Ginsberg is a Junior at Southern Methodist University double Majoring in Finance and Political Science. Being born in San Diego, California, but having lived in Mexico, Canada, Israel, and the United States of America have given him the opportunity to be fully embraced in many different cultures which have led to him having an incredibly unique background and perspective on the Jewish, minority, and immigrant experiences.

]]> Tue, 1 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Nathan Pupko Ginzberg, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-nathan-pupko-ginzberg-6UYwWu0q Nathan Pupko Ginsberg is a Junior at Southern Methodist University double Majoring in Finance and Political Science. Being born in San Diego, California, but having lived in Mexico, Canada, Israel, and the United States of America have given him the opportunity to be fully embraced in many different cultures which have led to him having an incredibly unique background and perspective on the Jewish, minority, and immigrant experiences.

]]> Gen Z - Nathan Pupko Ginsberg Nathan Pupko Ginzberg, Robert Hunt 00:20:11 In this episode we visit with Nathan Pupko-Ginsberg, an SMU student with an international background and a strong interest in what it means to be Jewish, Gen Z, and religiously engaged. In this episode we visit with Nathan Pupko-Ginsberg, an SMU student with an international background and a strong interest in what it means to be Jewish, Gen Z, and religiously engaged. smu, genz, jewish no full 7 6 0f3ddcec-68f8-498a-990b-f7e4956489ff Gen Z - Azeez Akande on Gen Z Reaching Gen Z Azeez Akande is a student at Perkins School of Theology of Southern Methodist University. He is also an active pastor. 

]]> Tue, 25 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Azeez Akande, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-azeez-akande-on-gen-z-reaching-gen-z-kL_vAVaE Azeez Akande is a student at Perkins School of Theology of Southern Methodist University. He is also an active pastor. 

]]> Gen Z - Azeez Akande on Gen Z Reaching Gen Z Azeez Akande, Robert Hunt 00:19:26 Azeez Akande is a theology student and pastor actively seeking ways to reach out to members of his own generation. He tells us about the mistrust in organized religion that he faces among his peers, and how the ways a contemporary church can overcome it. Azeez Akande is a theology student and pastor actively seeking ways to reach out to members of his own generation. He tells us about the mistrust in organized religion that he faces among his peers, and how the ways a contemporary church can overcome it. gen z, rethink church, genz no full 6 6 f5f1a5ef-2969-4e54-86d9-68808cf53f76 Gen Z Navigates Uncertainty Most young people don't even know about religious institutions. Yet:

61% of young people agree "The adults in my life don't truly know how much I am struggling with my mental health."

47% of young people say they are moderately or extremely depressed.

73% of religious young people agree that their religious and spiritual practices positively impact their mental health.

66% of religious young people agree that their religious or spiritual life matters for their mental health.

]]> Tue, 18 Oct 2022 17:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Josh Packard) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-navigates-uncertainty-OwangGbu Most young people don't even know about religious institutions. Yet:

61% of young people agree "The adults in my life don't truly know how much I am struggling with my mental health."

47% of young people say they are moderately or extremely depressed.

73% of religious young people agree that their religious and spiritual practices positively impact their mental health.

66% of religious young people agree that their religious or spiritual life matters for their mental health.

]]> Gen Z Navigates Uncertainty Robert Hunt, Josh Packard 00:19:43 Dr. Josh Packard shares the latest research on Gen Z navigating an uncertain future. We learn that they don't know, and largely don't trust, that religious people and groups understand or can help them. What can be done? Dr. Packard offers us strategies and opportunities for better conversations. Dr. Josh Packard shares the latest research on Gen Z navigating an uncertain future. We learn that they don't know, and largely don't trust, that religious people and groups understand or can help them. What can be done? Dr. Packard offers us strategies and opportunities for better conversations. religion, covid, gen z, mental health, uncertainty no full 5 6 86826fe6-5dd8-4cd6-9cef-79ffefa9438e Gen Z - Hannah Siegel and Being Jewish and Gen Z in this episode Hannah Siegel tells us how she became more religious in college, and how she has found community among Jews even though she is far from home.

]]> Tue, 11 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-hannah-siegle-and-being-jewish-and-gen-z-UFyUUpiU in this episode Hannah Siegel tells us how she became more religious in college, and how she has found community among Jews even though she is far from home.

]]> Gen Z - Hannah Siegel and Being Jewish and Gen Z Robert Hunt 00:11:29 Hannah Siegel is a junior studying Mechanical Engineering and Physics and serve as Co-President of SMU Hillel. In her free time, she does a lot of work within the Jewish community, including working as Senior Manager of the Jewish on Campus Ambassador Program. She is also a fellow with the World Jewish Congress. Hannah Siegel is a junior studying Mechanical Engineering and Physics and serve as Co-President of SMU Hillel. In her free time, she does a lot of work within the Jewish community, including working as Senior Manager of the Jewish on Campus Ambassador Program. She is also a fellow with the World Jewish Congress. no full 4 6 dd0e64b9-7f18-4aca-b438-b50eddbb0b14 Gen Z - Josh Packard on Post Covid Trauma Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute, is an accomplished researcher with an expertise in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. A talented speaker and writer,with over 10 years of teaching experience,Josh has been a guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts, and has been an invited speaker at many conferences, events, and workshops. He has been published widely in both academic and popular outlets, including Christianity Today, The Aspen Institute, The Huffington Post, Desert News, and Christian Science Monitor, among others. Josh earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Vanderbilt University and did his undergraduate work in English at Texas Lutheran University.  

]]> Tue, 4 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-josh-packard-on-post-covid-trauma-T_8XYmRF Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute, is an accomplished researcher with an expertise in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. A talented speaker and writer,with over 10 years of teaching experience,Josh has been a guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts, and has been an invited speaker at many conferences, events, and workshops. He has been published widely in both academic and popular outlets, including Christianity Today, The Aspen Institute, The Huffington Post, Desert News, and Christian Science Monitor, among others. Josh earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Vanderbilt University and did his undergraduate work in English at Texas Lutheran University.  

]]> Gen Z - Josh Packard on Post Covid Trauma Robert Hunt 00:29:28 We revisit an episode with Dr. Josh Packard of the Springtide Research Institute on how Gen Z experienced Covid, and what that means to those who want to connect with their spiritual and religious needs. https://www.springtideresearch.org We revisit an episode with Dr. Josh Packard of the Springtide Research Institute on how Gen Z experienced Covid, and what that means to those who want to connect with their spiritual and religious needs. https://www.springtideresearch.org no full 3 6 ab6f0b17-b680-40ce-b3b4-0b1c34f1805f Gen Z - Razan Bayan and Being Muslim and Gen Z In this episode Razan Bayan, a Muslim student at Southern Methodist University tell us how she discovered her religion and what it has come to mean to her. She explores the importance of having a moral code and purpose in life, as well as her aspiration that her generation be proudly themselves. 

]]> Tue, 27 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Razan Bayan, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-razan-bayan-and-being-muslim-and-gen-z-2hp_HAJC In this episode Razan Bayan, a Muslim student at Southern Methodist University tell us how she discovered her religion and what it has come to mean to her. She explores the importance of having a moral code and purpose in life, as well as her aspiration that her generation be proudly themselves. 

]]> Gen Z - Razan Bayan and Being Muslim and Gen Z Razan Bayan, Robert Hunt 00:21:50 Razan Bayan is a junior at Southern Methodist University studying Human Rights and History. She is the Education Chair of SMU's Muslim Student Association and a Student Office Coordinator at the SMU Office of the Chaplain and Religious Life. Through these positions, Razan works to create a more inclusive environment for religious minorities on campus. Razan Bayan is a junior at Southern Methodist University studying Human Rights and History. She is the Education Chair of SMU's Muslim Student Association and a Student Office Coordinator at the SMU Office of the Chaplain and Religious Life. Through these positions, Razan works to create a more inclusive environment for religious minorities on campus. islam, gen z, smu no full 2 6 3e9364cd-08c5-41cb-9d7a-dd32106b8944 Gen Z - Josh Packard on Making Religious Connections Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute, is an accomplished researcher with an expertise in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. A talented speaker and writer,with over 10 years of teaching experience,Josh has been a guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts, and has been an invited speaker at many conferences, events, and workshops. He has been published widely in both academic and popular outlets, including Christianity Today, The Aspen Institute, The Huffington Post, Desert News, and Christian Science Monitor, among others. Josh earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Vanderbilt University and did his undergraduate work in English at Texas Lutheran University.  

]]> Tue, 20 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Josh Packard) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/gen-z-josh-packard-on-making-religious-connections-_hYTcwgU Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute, is an accomplished researcher with an expertise in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. A talented speaker and writer,with over 10 years of teaching experience,Josh has been a guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts, and has been an invited speaker at many conferences, events, and workshops. He has been published widely in both academic and popular outlets, including Christianity Today, The Aspen Institute, The Huffington Post, Desert News, and Christian Science Monitor, among others. Josh earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Vanderbilt University and did his undergraduate work in English at Texas Lutheran University.  

]]> Gen Z - Josh Packard on Making Religious Connections Robert Hunt, Josh Packard 00:33:56 We revisit an episode with Dr. Josh Packard of the Springtide Research Institute on how Gen Z connects (or fails to connect) with religion and religious institutions. https://www.springtideresearch.org We revisit an episode with Dr. Josh Packard of the Springtide Research Institute on how Gen Z connects (or fails to connect) with religion and religious institutions. https://www.springtideresearch.org religion, spirituality, gen z no full 1 6 8f427384-085a-4746-be36-6e6511e33bb1 Religious Conflict: Dr. Muhamed Elsanousi - Director of the Network for Traditional and Religious Peacemakers In this riveting discussion Muhammed Elsanousi helps us understand how colonialism has built a legacy of mistrust between Muslims and Christians, and how through persistent dialogue and mutual understanding this can be overcome. 

 

Their latest research is found here: https://www.peacemakersnetwork.org/research/

]]> Tue, 30 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Muhamed Elsanousi) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-muhamed-elsanousi-peacemaker-gcvNAWKu In this riveting discussion Muhammed Elsanousi helps us understand how colonialism has built a legacy of mistrust between Muslims and Christians, and how through persistent dialogue and mutual understanding this can be overcome. 

 

Their latest research is found here: https://www.peacemakersnetwork.org/research/

]]> Religious Conflict: Dr. Muhamed Elsanousi - Director of the Network for Traditional and Religious Peacemakers Robert Hunt, Muhamed Elsanousi 00:29:48 Dr. Muhamed Elsanousi, Director of the Network for Traditional and Religious Peacemakers, shares the deep roots of grievance and conflict, and how these can be overcome through inter religious and intra-religious dialogue. His mission is to enhance the effectiveness of efforts toward peaceful and inclusive societies by increasing the active collaboration between religious and traditional actors and other key stakeholders in conflict transformation. Dr. Muhamed Elsanousi, Director of the Network for Traditional and Religious Peacemakers, shares the deep roots of grievance and conflict, and how these can be overcome through inter religious and intra-religious dialogue. His mission is to enhance the effectiveness of efforts toward peaceful and inclusive societies by increasing the active collaboration between religious and traditional actors and other key stakeholders in conflict transformation. dialogue, network for traditional and religious peacemakers, interfaith, religious conflict, muhamed elsanousi, interreligious, peacemakers no full 9 5 1844eb55-450d-4e09-b048-c517ab2a65e2 Religious Conflict: Jill Temple on Classroom Conflicts Dr. Jill DeTemple is Chair of Religious Studies, Professor of Religious Studies, and, by courtesy, Professor of Anthropology. Her research focuses on religiously sponsored development in Latin America and on the uses of dialogue for teaching in higher education.  She is currently working on two projects.  The first is a book that examines the risks of social capital approaches to development, especially when they are based in religious and gendered identities, due to release with the University of Notre Dame Press in March, 2020.  The second is an edited volume that introduces Reflective Structured Dialogue and attendant approaches to dialogic classrooms in postsecondary contexts.

]]> Tue, 23 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Jill DeTemple) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/jill-temple-on-classroom-conflicts-PeJi6KH9 Dr. Jill DeTemple is Chair of Religious Studies, Professor of Religious Studies, and, by courtesy, Professor of Anthropology. Her research focuses on religiously sponsored development in Latin America and on the uses of dialogue for teaching in higher education.  She is currently working on two projects.  The first is a book that examines the risks of social capital approaches to development, especially when they are based in religious and gendered identities, due to release with the University of Notre Dame Press in March, 2020.  The second is an edited volume that introduces Reflective Structured Dialogue and attendant approaches to dialogic classrooms in postsecondary contexts.

]]> Religious Conflict: Jill Temple on Classroom Conflicts Robert Hunt, Jill DeTemple 00:19:32 Dr. Jill DeTemple shares insights from her experience helping students learn to have hard discussions while keeping their curiosity and respect for one another. She draws on the work of Essential Partners, https://whatisessential.org/about-us, to create positive conversations about religion. She has discovered that students can both more easily learn, and learn about each other. Dr. Jill DeTemple shares insights from her experience helping students learn to have hard discussions while keeping their curiosity and respect for one another. She draws on the work of Essential Partners, https://whatisessential.org/about-us, to create positive conversations about religion. She has discovered that students can both more easily learn, and learn about each other. religious dialogue, religion, religious controversy, conflict, religious conflict, religious studies, peacemaking no full 8 5 977d436c-e324-4186-b2e6-4afbd036019a Religious Conflict: Interfaith Encounters w/ Scott Shay Scott A. Shay is a leading businessman, thought leader, and author of several widely read books on profound issues facing the Jewish community. Scott is the co-founder and Chairman ofSignature Bank, well known as one of the best banks in New York for private business owners.

Scott earned a BA in Economics and a Masters in Management from Northwestern University, a valuable experience due to the commitment of his professors to high academic standards and the ideals of the university’s motto.

Scott is a distinguished leader in the Jewish community and an avid student of religion and its application to the world outside of the synagogue, church, or mosque. These interests are reflected in Conspiracy U, as well as his previous two books, In Good Faith: Questioning Religion and Atheism and Getting Our Groove Back: How to Energize American Jewry. https://www.scottshay.com/ingoodfaith. 

]]> Tue, 16 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Scott Shay, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/interfaith-encounters-w-scott-shay-kcJyMgkh Scott A. Shay is a leading businessman, thought leader, and author of several widely read books on profound issues facing the Jewish community. Scott is the co-founder and Chairman ofSignature Bank, well known as one of the best banks in New York for private business owners.

Scott earned a BA in Economics and a Masters in Management from Northwestern University, a valuable experience due to the commitment of his professors to high academic standards and the ideals of the university’s motto.

Scott is a distinguished leader in the Jewish community and an avid student of religion and its application to the world outside of the synagogue, church, or mosque. These interests are reflected in Conspiracy U, as well as his previous two books, In Good Faith: Questioning Religion and Atheism and Getting Our Groove Back: How to Energize American Jewry. https://www.scottshay.com/ingoodfaith. 

]]> Religious Conflict: Interfaith Encounters w/ Scott Shay Scott Shay, Robert Hunt 00:22:49 Scott Shay joins us to speak about how conflict plays out in business, and his own take on how basic ethics and honesty provide a path to peace. For all our episodes go to https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com. Scott Shay joins us to speak about how conflict plays out in business, and his own take on how basic ethics and honesty provide a path to peace. For all our episodes go to https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com. interfaith, religious conflict, business ethics, interreligious, religion and business no full 7 5 af6a043b-f2b0-40d3-82d9-9559ed707341 Religious Conflict: Dr. Ruben Habito, Professor of World Religions and Spirituality Ruben Habito is the founding teacher of MKZC

Ruben began Zen practice under Yamada Koun in Kamakura, Japan in 1971 when he was a Jesuit seminarian in Japan. He came to Dallas in 1989, and is now married with two grown sons. He is a faculty member at SMU's Perkins School of Theology where he teaches World Religions and Spirituality, and directs the Spiritual Formation Program. https://www.smu.edu/PERKINS.

Ruben Habito speaks four languages, travels widely and dialogues comfortably with people of many different faiths. But one simple, short Bible passage serves as his “home base.” It’s Mark 1:11, “You are my beloved, in whom I am well pleased.”

In Mark 1:11, Habito said, he finds a message that runs much deeper than a “warm fuzzy feeling” of being loved.

“It’s a way to look at the suffering and agony of all the people in the world throughout history and even now, including our own, and to understand, that in the midst of our travails, there is something or Someone that whispers into our ear, in and through all of this, that we are not forsaken, that ‘I AM with you,’ that ‘You are my beloved,’” he said. 

Grounded in that verse, Habito has become a low-key but influential voice on the Perkins campus and beyond, as a faculty member, author, spiritual director and Zen Roshi (teacher).  

At Perkins, Habito heads the spiritual formation program, as well as a certification program for spiritual directors, with the goal of giving students a spiritual grounding for their ministry. He also teaches courses in world religions, with an eye toward “unpacking what we can learn from the world’s religions and enhancing and enriching our ways of doing Christian theology, ministry, and spirituality.”

Beyond campus, Habito is founding teacher of Maria Kannon Zen Center, housed at White Rock United Methodist Church in east Dallas.  He began Zen practice under Yamada Koun in Kamakura, Japan in 1971 when he was a Jesuit seminarian in Japan. 

“The Zen Center is a central aspect of my life,” he said. “It is nourishing for me to be able to sit in silence with people from all backgrounds and traditions, or none at all, who are seeking something genuine and authentic in life.”  

Mark 1:11 also informs Habito’s personal practice of daily meditation, which he describes as “basically just sitting in silence, and basking in Love.”  

Habito recently returned from gatherings of the Parliament of World Religions and the American Academy of Religion; he is often called on to speak at international interfaith gatherings and to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue.  He’s also the author of several books – his most recent is Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible – that explore connections between Buddhism and Christian faith. Habito hopes his books and his work help make Zen accessible to people of all faiths as well as those with no religious beliefs. 

“Zen practice leads to an experience of our connectedness with one another,” he said. “That’s an underlying and recurring theme in my own work and in my own life.  Going deep into the core of our being enables us to open our hearts to that transcendent mystery, and at the same time, see our intimate connectedness with all beings, with all the earth.” 

Habito’s current research is aimed at crystalizing an understanding of the Trinity from an experiential perspective.  With the developments in systematic theology over the last few centuries, he said, a disconnect has arisen between spirituality and theology, with spirituality becoming a subdivision of practical matters that does not inform systematic theology, which attempts to explain ultimate reality in the light of Christian faith. Habito believes reconnecting the two areas can be mutually enriching. 

“More and more theologians are seeing that those two areas need to be reunited in order to do theology in a viable way that would address the crucial issues of our contemporary world,” he said.  

 

]]> Tue, 9 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-ruben-habito-professor-of-world-religions-and-spirituality-t1Aso_Pd Ruben Habito is the founding teacher of MKZC

Ruben began Zen practice under Yamada Koun in Kamakura, Japan in 1971 when he was a Jesuit seminarian in Japan. He came to Dallas in 1989, and is now married with two grown sons. He is a faculty member at SMU's Perkins School of Theology where he teaches World Religions and Spirituality, and directs the Spiritual Formation Program. https://www.smu.edu/PERKINS.

Ruben Habito speaks four languages, travels widely and dialogues comfortably with people of many different faiths. But one simple, short Bible passage serves as his “home base.” It’s Mark 1:11, “You are my beloved, in whom I am well pleased.”

In Mark 1:11, Habito said, he finds a message that runs much deeper than a “warm fuzzy feeling” of being loved.

“It’s a way to look at the suffering and agony of all the people in the world throughout history and even now, including our own, and to understand, that in the midst of our travails, there is something or Someone that whispers into our ear, in and through all of this, that we are not forsaken, that ‘I AM with you,’ that ‘You are my beloved,’” he said. 

Grounded in that verse, Habito has become a low-key but influential voice on the Perkins campus and beyond, as a faculty member, author, spiritual director and Zen Roshi (teacher).  

At Perkins, Habito heads the spiritual formation program, as well as a certification program for spiritual directors, with the goal of giving students a spiritual grounding for their ministry. He also teaches courses in world religions, with an eye toward “unpacking what we can learn from the world’s religions and enhancing and enriching our ways of doing Christian theology, ministry, and spirituality.”

Beyond campus, Habito is founding teacher of Maria Kannon Zen Center, housed at White Rock United Methodist Church in east Dallas.  He began Zen practice under Yamada Koun in Kamakura, Japan in 1971 when he was a Jesuit seminarian in Japan. 

“The Zen Center is a central aspect of my life,” he said. “It is nourishing for me to be able to sit in silence with people from all backgrounds and traditions, or none at all, who are seeking something genuine and authentic in life.”  

Mark 1:11 also informs Habito’s personal practice of daily meditation, which he describes as “basically just sitting in silence, and basking in Love.”  

Habito recently returned from gatherings of the Parliament of World Religions and the American Academy of Religion; he is often called on to speak at international interfaith gatherings and to participate in Buddhist-Christian dialogue.  He’s also the author of several books – his most recent is Be Still and Know: Zen and the Bible – that explore connections between Buddhism and Christian faith. Habito hopes his books and his work help make Zen accessible to people of all faiths as well as those with no religious beliefs. 

“Zen practice leads to an experience of our connectedness with one another,” he said. “That’s an underlying and recurring theme in my own work and in my own life.  Going deep into the core of our being enables us to open our hearts to that transcendent mystery, and at the same time, see our intimate connectedness with all beings, with all the earth.” 

Habito’s current research is aimed at crystalizing an understanding of the Trinity from an experiential perspective.  With the developments in systematic theology over the last few centuries, he said, a disconnect has arisen between spirituality and theology, with spirituality becoming a subdivision of practical matters that does not inform systematic theology, which attempts to explain ultimate reality in the light of Christian faith. Habito believes reconnecting the two areas can be mutually enriching. 

“More and more theologians are seeing that those two areas need to be reunited in order to do theology in a viable way that would address the crucial issues of our contemporary world,” he said.  

 

]]> Religious Conflict: Dr. Ruben Habito, Professor of World Religions and Spirituality Robert Hunt 00:20:08 Dr Ruben Habito, Professor of Southern Methodist University and Guiding Teacher of the Maria Kannon Zen Center looks at conflict and peace through the lens of how the absolutizing of religion brings conflict, while finding our common breath can lead us into peace with others. https://www.mkzc.org/our-teachers Dr Ruben Habito, Professor of Southern Methodist University and Guiding Teacher of the Maria Kannon Zen Center looks at conflict and peace through the lens of how the absolutizing of religion brings conflict, while finding our common breath can lead us into peace with others. https://www.mkzc.org/our-teachers no full 6 5 135bf450-4720-4d01-b58c-386122e2f747 Religious Conflict: Jerry Zehr Interfaith Devotions “THERE IS A NEW CONSCIOUSNESS THAT IS DRAWING US INTO A WORLDWIDE SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY. MY DESIRE IS THAT MY WRITINGS WILL BRING ENCOURAGEMENT, THOUGHTFUL REFLECTION, AND HOPE. LET US BECOME PEACEMAKERS AND
CREATE SHALOM FOR OUR WORLD.”

This episode builds on peacemaking in the work place by our previous guest, Dr. Robyn Short. https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/robyn-short-religious-conflict-in-the-workplace. Rev. Zehr tells us about his book of 40 interfaith devotions that will expand the spiritual life of all those seeking peace. https://jerryzehr.com/resources-books/

Jerry Zehr is an ordained minister and has served as a pastor and leader in Interfaith ministries for over 30 years. He has helped to create four interfaith organizations, including the Carmel Interfaith Alliance and the Indiana Multifaith Network. Jerry and his wife Diane have been married for over 37 years with two daughters and two grandchildren.

Jerry leads workshops, retreats, and speaks at events on different aspects of  Walking the Enlightened Path, Developing Inner Peace, Learning to Forgive, and  Building Understandings of  Different Faith Traditions.

Before Jerry went into the ministry, he was an professional actor performing in over 50 musicals and dramas. His novel “Blurring the Lines ” tells of his experience in the entertainment business in Los Angeles, California. The theme running through the book is “What Are You Willing to Sell Your Soul For?”

]]> Tue, 2 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Jerry Zehr) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/jerry-zehr-interfaith-devotions-ioGV3SpZ “THERE IS A NEW CONSCIOUSNESS THAT IS DRAWING US INTO A WORLDWIDE SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY. MY DESIRE IS THAT MY WRITINGS WILL BRING ENCOURAGEMENT, THOUGHTFUL REFLECTION, AND HOPE. LET US BECOME PEACEMAKERS AND
CREATE SHALOM FOR OUR WORLD.”

This episode builds on peacemaking in the work place by our previous guest, Dr. Robyn Short. https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/robyn-short-religious-conflict-in-the-workplace. Rev. Zehr tells us about his book of 40 interfaith devotions that will expand the spiritual life of all those seeking peace. https://jerryzehr.com/resources-books/

Jerry Zehr is an ordained minister and has served as a pastor and leader in Interfaith ministries for over 30 years. He has helped to create four interfaith organizations, including the Carmel Interfaith Alliance and the Indiana Multifaith Network. Jerry and his wife Diane have been married for over 37 years with two daughters and two grandchildren.

Jerry leads workshops, retreats, and speaks at events on different aspects of  Walking the Enlightened Path, Developing Inner Peace, Learning to Forgive, and  Building Understandings of  Different Faith Traditions.

Before Jerry went into the ministry, he was an professional actor performing in over 50 musicals and dramas. His novel “Blurring the Lines ” tells of his experience in the entertainment business in Los Angeles, California. The theme running through the book is “What Are You Willing to Sell Your Soul For?”

]]> Religious Conflict: Jerry Zehr Interfaith Devotions Robert Hunt, Jerry Zehr 00:17:58 Jerry Zehr shares his personal experiences of peacemaking, and his book on interfaith spirituality for peace. Jerry Zehr shares his personal experiences of peacemaking, and his book on interfaith spirituality for peace. interfaith devotions, interfaith, religious conflict, peacemaking no full 5 5 2ff36f98-27a9-41b6-9b9b-ac4346bf6155 Religious Conflict: Robyn Short - Religious Conflict in the Workplace If you enjoyed last weeks episode https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/suhag-shukla-on-religious-conflict-and-peace you'll love our interview this week with Dr. Robyn Short of the Workplace Peace Institute https://www.workplacepeaceinstitute.com/mission-vision-alignment

Dr. Robyn Short is the founder and CEO of Workplace Peace Institute, a consulting and research firm that brings peace and dignity to the workplace. She works as an organization development consultant, peace-building trainer, mediator, racial equity coach, and restorative justice facilitator. She is the founder and publisher of GoodMedia Press, an independent book publisher that’s mission is to promote peace and social justice through books and other media. Dr. Short is the founder and board chair of the Peace & Conciliation Project, a 501(c)(3) antiracism organization that brings communities together to address and repair the harm of racial injustice. She is an adjunct professor at Southern Methodist University in the Master of Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution program, Master of Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution at Lipscomb University, and Master of Leadership and Negotiation at Bay Path University. She has authored four books on peace building.

]]> Tue, 26 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robyn Short) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/robyn-short-religious-conflict-in-the-workplace-vFUHCLpe If you enjoyed last weeks episode https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/suhag-shukla-on-religious-conflict-and-peace you'll love our interview this week with Dr. Robyn Short of the Workplace Peace Institute https://www.workplacepeaceinstitute.com/mission-vision-alignment

Dr. Robyn Short is the founder and CEO of Workplace Peace Institute, a consulting and research firm that brings peace and dignity to the workplace. She works as an organization development consultant, peace-building trainer, mediator, racial equity coach, and restorative justice facilitator. She is the founder and publisher of GoodMedia Press, an independent book publisher that’s mission is to promote peace and social justice through books and other media. Dr. Short is the founder and board chair of the Peace & Conciliation Project, a 501(c)(3) antiracism organization that brings communities together to address and repair the harm of racial injustice. She is an adjunct professor at Southern Methodist University in the Master of Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution program, Master of Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution at Lipscomb University, and Master of Leadership and Negotiation at Bay Path University. She has authored four books on peace building.

]]> Religious Conflict: Robyn Short - Religious Conflict in the Workplace Robyn Short 00:19:12 Dr Robyn Short discusses Religious Conflict in the Workplace and show us how preserving human dignity is the way to succeed in business Dr Robyn Short discusses Religious Conflict in the Workplace and show us how preserving human dignity is the way to succeed in business religious conflict, business success, dignity, peacemaking, multi-cultural, multi-religious no full 4 5 398d9a19-7aa8-4dde-bc31-1437430aa685 Religious Conflict: Suhag Shukla on Religious Conflict and Peace Following on our interview with Rabbi Jack Bemporad, https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/rabbi-jack-bemporad, Ms. Shukla offers a distinctly different, and Hindu understanding of the sources of religious conflict and how personal transformation is in many ways the key to resolving them. For more of Ms Shukla's work go to: https://www.hinduamerican.org/thats-so-hindu-podcast.

This is a statement from the HAF about their work:
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) is an educational and advocacy organization established in 2003.
HAF focuses on educating the public about Hindus and Hinduism and advocating for policies and practices that ensure the well-being of all people and the planet. We work directly with educators and journalists to ensure accurate understanding of Hindus and Hinduism. We also work with policymakers and key stakeholders to champion issues of concern to Hindu Americans, including defending civil and human rights and protecting all living beings. Inspired by our guiding principles and Hindu teachings, HAF promotes dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism. HAF is a non-partisan, non-profit tax-exempt public charity pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)3.

Our Mission

Promoting dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism in order to ensure the well-being of Hindus and for all people and the planet to thrive.

Our Guiding Principles
HAF is politically agnostic and non-partisan, meaning we are informed, but do not favor and cannot endorse any one political party or any candidates. We will work with all individuals and institutions committed to and constructively engaged in promoting dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism. HAF is not affiliated with any religious or political organizations or entities. HAF seeks to serve Hindu Americans across all sampradaya (Hindu religious traditions) regardless of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship, gender, sexual orientation, age and/or disability. Our positions are based on a relentless pursuit of facts; deep consideration of Hindu principles and American values, such as freedom, equality, and justice; and the input of subject matter experts. If we like a policy, we’ll say so, and rigorously substantiate our position. HAF positions will always be based on our guiding principles. And we will always advocate for what we believe is rooted in Hindu Dharma, and serves the well-being of Hindus and the greater good of all. Satya. Be truthful. We pride ourselves in offering programming and information with accuracy, integrity, and honesty. Ahimsa. Be non-harming. We aspire to work and communicate fairly and respectfully.

]]> Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Suhag Shukla, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/suhag-shukla-on-religious-conflict-and-peace-eEz_keS1 Following on our interview with Rabbi Jack Bemporad, https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/rabbi-jack-bemporad, Ms. Shukla offers a distinctly different, and Hindu understanding of the sources of religious conflict and how personal transformation is in many ways the key to resolving them. For more of Ms Shukla's work go to: https://www.hinduamerican.org/thats-so-hindu-podcast.

This is a statement from the HAF about their work:
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) is an educational and advocacy organization established in 2003.
HAF focuses on educating the public about Hindus and Hinduism and advocating for policies and practices that ensure the well-being of all people and the planet. We work directly with educators and journalists to ensure accurate understanding of Hindus and Hinduism. We also work with policymakers and key stakeholders to champion issues of concern to Hindu Americans, including defending civil and human rights and protecting all living beings. Inspired by our guiding principles and Hindu teachings, HAF promotes dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism. HAF is a non-partisan, non-profit tax-exempt public charity pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)3.

Our Mission

Promoting dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism in order to ensure the well-being of Hindus and for all people and the planet to thrive.

Our Guiding Principles
HAF is politically agnostic and non-partisan, meaning we are informed, but do not favor and cannot endorse any one political party or any candidates. We will work with all individuals and institutions committed to and constructively engaged in promoting dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism. HAF is not affiliated with any religious or political organizations or entities. HAF seeks to serve Hindu Americans across all sampradaya (Hindu religious traditions) regardless of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship, gender, sexual orientation, age and/or disability. Our positions are based on a relentless pursuit of facts; deep consideration of Hindu principles and American values, such as freedom, equality, and justice; and the input of subject matter experts. If we like a policy, we’ll say so, and rigorously substantiate our position. HAF positions will always be based on our guiding principles. And we will always advocate for what we believe is rooted in Hindu Dharma, and serves the well-being of Hindus and the greater good of all. Satya. Be truthful. We pride ourselves in offering programming and information with accuracy, integrity, and honesty. Ahimsa. Be non-harming. We aspire to work and communicate fairly and respectfully.

]]> Religious Conflict: Suhag Shukla on Religious Conflict and Peace Suhag Shukla, Robert Hunt 00:17:34 Suhag Shukla - Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Hindu American Foundation speaks about how the causes of religious conflict come from a fundamental misunderstanding of who we are as human, and how we can find the commonalities that lead us to peace and cooperation. Suhag Shukla - Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Hindu American Foundation speaks about how the causes of religious conflict come from a fundamental misunderstanding of who we are as human, and how we can find the commonalities that lead us to peace and cooperation. hinduism, religious conflict, peacemaking, interfaith dialogue no full 3 5 13eb4173-87d4-4e41-a309-0b827044e655 Religious Conflict: Rabbi Jack Bemporad on Scripture and Conflict Rabbi Bemporad is the director of the nonprofit Center for Interreligious Understanding (CIU), which he founded in 1992. Its aim is to bring people of all religious faiths together to promote open dialogue, mutual respect, and theological understanding of the common foundations shared by the world’s religions. Rabbi Jack Bemporad began teaching at Vatican universities in 1998 and has been Director of the John Paul II Center and Professor of Interreligious Studies, both at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum), in Rome since 2009. Concurrently, he also serves as Rabbi of Congregation Micah of New Jersey, in Cresskill.

Fleeing the fascist takeover in Italy prior to WWII, Bemporad and his family traveled to the U.S. when he was five years old. Thus, having personally suffered as the result of persecution and prejudice, he has dedicated his career to improving relations among Christians, Muslims, and Jews worldwide. The Rabbi is recognized internationally for his diplomatic skill and leadership in matters of religious understanding and reconciliation. He is one of the rare Jewish leaders to have had a personal audience with Pope John XXIII, numerous personal audiences with Pope John Paul II, and was one of three rabbis to have blessed him shortly before his death. Most recently, he met with Pope Francis at the conclusion of the “Refugees and Migrants” conference, co-sponsored by the CIU in Rome this past November.

Rabbi Bemporad is the author of numerous books and articles, including Our Age: The Historic New Era of Christian-Jewish Understanding, published by New City Press. He also edited The Inner Journey: Views from the Jewish Tradition by Morning Light Press, and contributed the chapter on “Norms of War in Judaism” for World Religions and Norms of War, published by the United Nations University Press. Most recently, he contributed a memoir of the philosopher Hans Jonas in Giacobbe E L’Angelo (Jacob and the Angel), published in Rome in 2012.

]]> Tue, 12 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Jack Bemporad) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/rabbi-jack-bemporad-TbPspFH1 Rabbi Bemporad is the director of the nonprofit Center for Interreligious Understanding (CIU), which he founded in 1992. Its aim is to bring people of all religious faiths together to promote open dialogue, mutual respect, and theological understanding of the common foundations shared by the world’s religions. Rabbi Jack Bemporad began teaching at Vatican universities in 1998 and has been Director of the John Paul II Center and Professor of Interreligious Studies, both at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum), in Rome since 2009. Concurrently, he also serves as Rabbi of Congregation Micah of New Jersey, in Cresskill.

Fleeing the fascist takeover in Italy prior to WWII, Bemporad and his family traveled to the U.S. when he was five years old. Thus, having personally suffered as the result of persecution and prejudice, he has dedicated his career to improving relations among Christians, Muslims, and Jews worldwide. The Rabbi is recognized internationally for his diplomatic skill and leadership in matters of religious understanding and reconciliation. He is one of the rare Jewish leaders to have had a personal audience with Pope John XXIII, numerous personal audiences with Pope John Paul II, and was one of three rabbis to have blessed him shortly before his death. Most recently, he met with Pope Francis at the conclusion of the “Refugees and Migrants” conference, co-sponsored by the CIU in Rome this past November.

Rabbi Bemporad is the author of numerous books and articles, including Our Age: The Historic New Era of Christian-Jewish Understanding, published by New City Press. He also edited The Inner Journey: Views from the Jewish Tradition by Morning Light Press, and contributed the chapter on “Norms of War in Judaism” for World Religions and Norms of War, published by the United Nations University Press. Most recently, he contributed a memoir of the philosopher Hans Jonas in Giacobbe E L’Angelo (Jacob and the Angel), published in Rome in 2012.

]]> Religious Conflict: Rabbi Jack Bemporad on Scripture and Conflict Jack Bemporad 00:24:49 Rabbi Jack Bemporad - Director of the Center for Interreligious Understanding and Director of the John Paul II Center for Interreligious Studies. Rabbi Bemporad shows us how religious conflict has evolved over time, and how inter religious understanding must likewise take new forms in our current era. Rabbi Jack Bemporad - Director of the Center for Interreligious Understanding and Director of the John Paul II Center for Interreligious Studies. Rabbi Bemporad shows us how religious conflict has evolved over time, and how inter religious understanding must likewise take new forms in our current era. religious conflict, center for interreligious understanding, peacemaking, interfaith dialogue no full 2 5 8c04987d-53c9-4793-aff1-42369da0cb0d Religious Conflict: Dr Jim Walters of the London School of Economics Tue, 5 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Jim Walters) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-jim-walters-of-the-london-school-of-economics-pL_Zqqcn Religious Conflict: Dr Jim Walters of the London School of Economics Robert Hunt, Jim Walters 00:19:37 Jim Walters - is the founding director of the London School of Economics Faith Centre and leads its work in promoting religious literacy and interfaith leadership among the LSE’s global student body, in government and to the wider public. He is the author of Loving Your Neighbor in an Age of Religious Conflict Jim Walters - is the founding director of the London School of Economics Faith Centre and leads its work in promoting religious literacy and interfaith leadership among the LSE’s global student body, in government and to the wider public. He is the author of Loving Your Neighbor in an Age of Religious Conflict religious conflict, london school of economics, peacemaking, interfaith dialogue, perkins school of theology, middle east no full 1 5 52078974-4db1-402d-89de-98a396af2644 The Future of Religion: Ambassador Suzan Cook Johnson Ambassador Johnson explains the challenges the future brings and then challenges us to "kick the h, e, l, and l out of challenge and turn it into change."

]]> Tue, 20 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Ambassador Suzan Cook Johnson) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-religion-ambassador-suzan-cook-johnson-X9KrzedJ Ambassador Johnson explains the challenges the future brings and then challenges us to "kick the h, e, l, and l out of challenge and turn it into change."

]]> The Future of Religion: Ambassador Suzan Cook Johnson Robert Hunt, Ambassador Suzan Cook Johnson 00:13:36 Suzan Denise Johnson Cook (born January 28, 1957) is a U.S. presidential advisor, pastor, theologian, author, activist, and academic who served as the United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom from April 2011 to October 2013. She has served as a policy advisor to President Bill Clinton and later to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Henry Cisneros, a dean and professor of communications at Harvard University, a professor of theology at New York Theological Seminary, a pastor at a number of churches, a television producer, and the author of nearly a dozen books. She was the first female senior pastor in the 200-year history of the American Baptist Churches USA and a close friend of Coretta Scott King. She is an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority Suzan Denise Johnson Cook (born January 28, 1957) is a U.S. presidential advisor, pastor, theologian, author, activist, and academic who served as the United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom from April 2011 to October 2013. She has served as a policy advisor to President Bill Clinton and later to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Henry Cisneros, a dean and professor of communications at Harvard University, a professor of theology at New York Theological Seminary, a pastor at a number of churches, a television producer, and the author of nearly a dozen books. She was the first female senior pastor in the 200-year history of the American Baptist Churches USA and a close friend of Coretta Scott King. She is an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority women in religion, religious freedom, future of religion no full 6 4 01253a16-fb4b-4493-8507-f6f7afb09535 The Future of Religion: Linda Wertheimer and Faith Ed Tue, 13 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Linda K Wertheimer, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-religion-linda-wertheimer-and-faith-ed-_Slnt4_v The Future of Religion: Linda Wertheimer and Faith Ed Linda K Wertheimer, Robert Hunt 00:26:48 Linda K. Wertheimer, a veteran journalist and former education editor of The Boston Globe, is the author of the award-winning book, Faith Ed, Teaching about Religion in an Age of Intolerance. Faith Ed as well as excerpts from the book have won awards from the Religion News Association and the Education Writers Association. Linda currently is a Spencer Fellow in Education Journalism at Columbia University. She has given hundreds of talks about schools' efforts to teach about the world religions and the experiences of religious minorities in the nation's schools. In summer 2021, she gave an interfaith lecture for Chautauqua Institution. Her more than 30-year print journalism career includes reporting on education at The Dallas Morning News. More recently, her work has been published in The Washington Post and the Boston Globe Magazine. Linda K. Wertheimer, a veteran journalist and former education editor of The Boston Globe, is the author of the award-winning book, Faith Ed, Teaching about Religion in an Age of Intolerance. Faith Ed as well as excerpts from the book have won awards from the Religion News Association and the Education Writers Association. Linda currently is a Spencer Fellow in Education Journalism at Columbia University. She has given hundreds of talks about schools' efforts to teach about the world religions and the experiences of religious minorities in the nation's schools. In summer 2021, she gave an interfaith lecture for Chautauqua Institution. Her more than 30-year print journalism career includes reporting on education at The Dallas Morning News. More recently, her work has been published in The Washington Post and the Boston Globe Magazine. future of religion, religious education, faith education, world religions no full 5 4 72919aeb-3363-4246-bc11-49964bd80a6f The Future of Religion: Roland Faber and the Transreligious Future of Religion Roland Faber was born in Austria. He received his M.A., Ph.D., and Habilitation at the University of Vienna. He occupies the Kilsby Family/John B. Cobb, Jr., Professor of Process Studies at Claremont School of Theology, and serves as Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Claremont Graduate University. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Whitehead Research Project, and Co-Director of the Center for Process Studies. Research and publications encompass the fields of Whitehead's philosophy, Process Philosophy and Process Theology; (De)Constructive Theology; Poststructuralism (Gilles Deleuze); Transreligious Discourse (epistemology of Religious Relativity and Unity) and interreligious applications (e.g., Christianity, Buddhism, Baha'i Faith); Comparative Philosophy and Mysticism (Meister Eckhart, Nicolas of Cusa, Ibn 'Arabi), and Theopoetics (an approach to post-structuralist and process theology, which addresses the liberating necessity of multiplicity). More information on his work can be found on his webpage:http://faber.whiteheadresearch.org.

]]> Tue, 6 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Roland Faber, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-religion-roland-faber-and-the-transreligious-future-of-religion-VpKefpNx Roland Faber was born in Austria. He received his M.A., Ph.D., and Habilitation at the University of Vienna. He occupies the Kilsby Family/John B. Cobb, Jr., Professor of Process Studies at Claremont School of Theology, and serves as Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Claremont Graduate University. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Whitehead Research Project, and Co-Director of the Center for Process Studies. Research and publications encompass the fields of Whitehead's philosophy, Process Philosophy and Process Theology; (De)Constructive Theology; Poststructuralism (Gilles Deleuze); Transreligious Discourse (epistemology of Religious Relativity and Unity) and interreligious applications (e.g., Christianity, Buddhism, Baha'i Faith); Comparative Philosophy and Mysticism (Meister Eckhart, Nicolas of Cusa, Ibn 'Arabi), and Theopoetics (an approach to post-structuralist and process theology, which addresses the liberating necessity of multiplicity). More information on his work can be found on his webpage:http://faber.whiteheadresearch.org.

]]> The Future of Religion: Roland Faber and the Transreligious Future of Religion Roland Faber, Robert Hunt 00:40:15 The future of religions, if they will not want to contribute to the destruction of humanity, will become transreligious. Based on the assumption that the spiritual impulse of humanity cannot simply be eradicated, religiosity will persist in transreligious forms, as secularizations, naturalizations and transhumanist dreams only envision such transformations, but fall short in their ability to replace the force of spirituality to further civilized peace of human existence on Earth and its future in evolutionary, ecological and cosmological dimensions. In relating the contributions of religious pluralism to the concept of the unity of religions, which have arisen in this “new axial age” for overcoming the checkered history of religions in furthering peace, the program of a polyphilic pluralism with its transreligious discourse, based on the insight of the fundamental relativity of (religious) truth and the special contributions of process philosophy and theology as well as the Bahá'í universe of thought, analyses and projects a new religiosity or spirit enabling religions to overcome their deepest motives of strife and warfare. The future of religions, if they will not want to contribute to the destruction of humanity, will become transreligious. Based on the assumption that the spiritual impulse of humanity cannot simply be eradicated, religiosity will persist in transreligious forms, as secularizations, naturalizations and transhumanist dreams only envision such transformations, but fall short in their ability to replace the force of spirituality to further civilized peace of human existence on Earth and its future in evolutionary, ecological and cosmological dimensions. In relating the contributions of religious pluralism to the concept of the unity of religions, which have arisen in this “new axial age” for overcoming the checkered history of religions in furthering peace, the program of a polyphilic pluralism with its transreligious discourse, based on the insight of the fundamental relativity of (religious) truth and the special contributions of process philosophy and theology as well as the Bahá'í universe of thought, analyses and projects a new religiosity or spirit enabling religions to overcome their deepest motives of strife and warfare. religion, interfaith, future, interreligious no full 4 4 833e6217-9462-487e-ac01-d74fcce2461e The Future of Religion: Dr. Bob Roberts of GlobalNet and the Challenge to Love Growing up as a Baptist pastor’s kid in a small town in East Texas, Bob got the chance to learn the Bible at a young age. He developed strong theological opinions, but didn’t know how to live it outside the church. He knew how to debate his faith, but didn’t know how to love.

After marrying his high school sweetheart Niki, Bob, who initially felt that he was going to be a global missionary, felt a calling to plant Northwood Church in Keller (Dallas/Fort Worth), Texas. During the early days in his church ministry, two questions radically impacted his life: ‘When will Jesus be enough?’ & ‘What if the church were the missionary?’.

Drawing inspiration from early church history and the emerging church in the developing world, Bob envisioned a new way of engaging the local church to achieve common goals. He calls for building a church culture rather than a church program. Glocal (Local + Global) churches that make disciples who, transformed by the Holy Spirit, are infiltrating today’s culture on a global and local scale. He believes that instead of just paying a few people to do the mission work for your church, your entire church needs to be mobilized to use their job and skills to live on mission both in your city and around the world.

As he began to build friendships around the world, he realized he had so much to learn! He is conservative in theology but realized the problem is not what he believed or what Jesus said; it is how we live that out. His theology didn’t change; his methodology did. Faith in the public square is where theological conviction doesn’t put you in opposition with other people.

Ever since, Bob has been a trailblazer in the peacemaking and international religious freedom arenas. He is frequently called upon by the U.S. Department of State, United Nations, U.S. Islamic World Forum, World Economic Forum, ambassadors, international royal families, diplomats, policy leaders, and others for his groundbreaking work in this field. He seeks to build and execute a model whereby multi-faith and church planting combine to create flourishing cities. Bob has had the honor of engaging in bridge-building efforts in Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Israel, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Egypt, West Bank, Iraq, Kuwait, Iran, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, and others.

Dr. Bob Roberts, Jr. is the founder of GlocalNet, a non-profit dedicated to mobilizing the church for transformation in the public square, founder and chairman of Glocal Ventures Inc (GVI) and co-founder of Multi-Faith Neighbors Network (MFNN), a multifaith organization committed to creating international religious freedom through intentional cross-cultural relationships. He is also currently the Senior Global Pastor at Northwood Church and host of the Bold Love podcast.

Bob has contributed or been featured on the World Economic Forum, Fox Business Channel, Washington Post, New York Times, Huckabee Show, Religious News Service, C-Span, Templeton Religions Trust, El-Hibri, Christianity Today, Outreach Magazine and more.

Bob is a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary (Doctorate of Ministry), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Masters of Divinity), and Baylor University (BA). He and his wife Niki have two children and three grandchildren.

]]> Tue, 29 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Bob Roberts, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-religion-dr-bob-roberts-of-globalnet-and-the-challenge-to-love-1QagN5x_ Growing up as a Baptist pastor’s kid in a small town in East Texas, Bob got the chance to learn the Bible at a young age. He developed strong theological opinions, but didn’t know how to live it outside the church. He knew how to debate his faith, but didn’t know how to love.

After marrying his high school sweetheart Niki, Bob, who initially felt that he was going to be a global missionary, felt a calling to plant Northwood Church in Keller (Dallas/Fort Worth), Texas. During the early days in his church ministry, two questions radically impacted his life: ‘When will Jesus be enough?’ & ‘What if the church were the missionary?’.

Drawing inspiration from early church history and the emerging church in the developing world, Bob envisioned a new way of engaging the local church to achieve common goals. He calls for building a church culture rather than a church program. Glocal (Local + Global) churches that make disciples who, transformed by the Holy Spirit, are infiltrating today’s culture on a global and local scale. He believes that instead of just paying a few people to do the mission work for your church, your entire church needs to be mobilized to use their job and skills to live on mission both in your city and around the world.

As he began to build friendships around the world, he realized he had so much to learn! He is conservative in theology but realized the problem is not what he believed or what Jesus said; it is how we live that out. His theology didn’t change; his methodology did. Faith in the public square is where theological conviction doesn’t put you in opposition with other people.

Ever since, Bob has been a trailblazer in the peacemaking and international religious freedom arenas. He is frequently called upon by the U.S. Department of State, United Nations, U.S. Islamic World Forum, World Economic Forum, ambassadors, international royal families, diplomats, policy leaders, and others for his groundbreaking work in this field. He seeks to build and execute a model whereby multi-faith and church planting combine to create flourishing cities. Bob has had the honor of engaging in bridge-building efforts in Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Israel, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Egypt, West Bank, Iraq, Kuwait, Iran, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, and others.

Dr. Bob Roberts, Jr. is the founder of GlocalNet, a non-profit dedicated to mobilizing the church for transformation in the public square, founder and chairman of Glocal Ventures Inc (GVI) and co-founder of Multi-Faith Neighbors Network (MFNN), a multifaith organization committed to creating international religious freedom through intentional cross-cultural relationships. He is also currently the Senior Global Pastor at Northwood Church and host of the Bold Love podcast.

Bob has contributed or been featured on the World Economic Forum, Fox Business Channel, Washington Post, New York Times, Huckabee Show, Religious News Service, C-Span, Templeton Religions Trust, El-Hibri, Christianity Today, Outreach Magazine and more.

Bob is a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary (Doctorate of Ministry), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Masters of Divinity), and Baylor University (BA). He and his wife Niki have two children and three grandchildren.

]]> The Future of Religion: Dr. Bob Roberts of GlobalNet and the Challenge to Love Bob Roberts, Robert Hunt 00:26:24 Dr. Bob Roberts is the pastor of Northlake Church and a pioneer of evangelical engagement in Multifaith conversation and cooperation. In this episode he shares his fears of an increasingly polarized society, and his practical experience of forming partnerships with Muslims, Jews, and persons of all faiths. Dr. Bob Roberts is the pastor of Northlake Church and a pioneer of evangelical engagement in Multifaith conversation and cooperation. In this episode he shares his fears of an increasingly polarized society, and his practical experience of forming partnerships with Muslims, Jews, and persons of all faiths. islam, glocal, evangelical, muslims, multifaith no full 3 4 c470ca81-18fc-405f-a099-cacbed18225a The Future of Religion: Nadiez Bahi and Rethinking God. https://www.amazon.com/Rethink-God-Nadiez-Bahi-ebook/dp/B08ZDGMPG4

 

]]> Tue, 22 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Nadiez Bahi, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-religion-nadiez-bahi-and-rethinking-god-0xYzsIiS https://www.amazon.com/Rethink-God-Nadiez-Bahi-ebook/dp/B08ZDGMPG4

 

]]> The Future of Religion: Nadiez Bahi and Rethinking God. Nadiez Bahi, Robert Hunt 00:25:30 Nadiez Bahi is the pseudonym of the author whose life's work is “Rethink God,” a novel released on April 27, 2021. For years, he researched science, philosophy, consciousness and religion seeking wisdom and answers on the topic of God. Bahi chooses to keep his identity private as the book's content is not acceptable in the part of the world that he lives in. In his book "Rethink God" he shows that people must make their own choices if they are to enjoy God's presence, and be respected if they do not. Nadiez Bahi is the pseudonym of the author whose life's work is “Rethink God,” a novel released on April 27, 2021. For years, he researched science, philosophy, consciousness and religion seeking wisdom and answers on the topic of God. Bahi chooses to keep his identity private as the book's content is not acceptable in the part of the world that he lives in. In his book "Rethink God" he shows that people must make their own choices if they are to enjoy God's presence, and be respected if they do not. god, future, freedom of religion, atheism no full 2 4 67ac899d-a6f6-489a-856c-9bb9ed46e7e4 The Future of Religion: Josh Packard on Gen Z Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute, is an accomplished researcher with an expertise in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. A talented speaker and writer, with over 10 years of teaching experience, Josh has been a guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts, and has been an invited speaker at many conferences, events, and workshops. He has been published widely in both academic and popular outlets, including Christianity Today, The Aspen Institute, The Huffington Post, Desert News, and Christian Science Monitor, among others. Josh earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Vanderbilt University and did his undergraduate work in English at Texas Lutheran University

]]> Tue, 15 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Josh Packard, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-religion-josh-packard-on-gen-z-Vvc31rq5 Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute, is an accomplished researcher with an expertise in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. A talented speaker and writer, with over 10 years of teaching experience, Josh has been a guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts, and has been an invited speaker at many conferences, events, and workshops. He has been published widely in both academic and popular outlets, including Christianity Today, The Aspen Institute, The Huffington Post, Desert News, and Christian Science Monitor, among others. Josh earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Vanderbilt University and did his undergraduate work in English at Texas Lutheran University

]]> The Future of Religion: Josh Packard on Gen Z Josh Packard, Robert Hunt 00:29:39 Dr. Josh Packard of the Springtide Institute gives us the latest on Gen Z, and how the future of religion looks to the people of the future. Can the those with good will and resources partner with a mistrustful generation? https://www.springtideresearch.org/the-state-of-religion-young-people Dr. Josh Packard of the Springtide Institute gives us the latest on Gen Z, and how the future of religion looks to the people of the future. Can the those with good will and resources partner with a mistrustful generation? https://www.springtideresearch.org/the-state-of-religion-young-people gen z, future of the church no full 1 4 d1b54646-ce77-405a-88ba-a17a38ce92ea Migration: The Bible, Christians, and Migrants with Dr. Danny Carroll R. Dr. Carroll is half-Guatemalan and was raised bilingual and bicultural. In his youth, he spent many summers in Guatemala and later taught at El Seminario Teológico Centroamericano in Guatemala City for thirteen years. The realities of Central America sparked Dr. Carroll's fascination with the Old Testament. The relevance of the biblical text for the challenges of poverty, war, and politics in those developing countries led him to a passionate focus on Old Testament social ethics and the social sciences.

In addition, his studies in English literature and literary theory have generated an ongoing engagement with literary approaches to the Old Testament and critical studies. Experiences in this country and abroad have led him to a deep appreciation for the unique contributions that ethnic minorities, women, and the global church make to the interpretation of the Old Testament. Before coming to Wheaton, Dr. Carroll taught Old Testament at Denver Seminary for many years and founded a Spanish-language lay training program there. At Wheaton, he hopes to model a commitment to connecting careful biblical scholarship with the mission of the church as it engages today’s complex realities. Dr. Carroll has been involved in Hispanic churches and teaching on the Bible and immigration for many years. His research focuses on the prophetic literature and Old Testament social ethics. He has just completed a major commentary on the book of Amos.

]]> Tue, 1 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Danny Carroll R.) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-bible-christians-and-migrants-with-dr-danny-carroll-r-_PxIRoA_ Dr. Carroll is half-Guatemalan and was raised bilingual and bicultural. In his youth, he spent many summers in Guatemala and later taught at El Seminario Teológico Centroamericano in Guatemala City for thirteen years. The realities of Central America sparked Dr. Carroll's fascination with the Old Testament. The relevance of the biblical text for the challenges of poverty, war, and politics in those developing countries led him to a passionate focus on Old Testament social ethics and the social sciences.

In addition, his studies in English literature and literary theory have generated an ongoing engagement with literary approaches to the Old Testament and critical studies. Experiences in this country and abroad have led him to a deep appreciation for the unique contributions that ethnic minorities, women, and the global church make to the interpretation of the Old Testament. Before coming to Wheaton, Dr. Carroll taught Old Testament at Denver Seminary for many years and founded a Spanish-language lay training program there. At Wheaton, he hopes to model a commitment to connecting careful biblical scholarship with the mission of the church as it engages today’s complex realities. Dr. Carroll has been involved in Hispanic churches and teaching on the Bible and immigration for many years. His research focuses on the prophetic literature and Old Testament social ethics. He has just completed a major commentary on the book of Amos.

]]> Migration: The Bible, Christians, and Migrants with Dr. Danny Carroll R. Robert Hunt, Danny Carroll R. 00:16:29 Dr. Danny Carroll R., author of "Christians on the Border: Immigration, the Church, and the Bible" and "The Bible and Borders: Hearing God’s Word on Immigration" gives us a Biblical understanding of migrants, immigrants, and immigration but also explains that many Christians don't seem to read their Bibles. Dr. Danny Carroll R., author of "Christians on the Border: Immigration, the Church, and the Bible" and "The Bible and Borders: Hearing God’s Word on Immigration" gives us a Biblical understanding of migrants, immigrants, and immigration but also explains that many Christians don't seem to read their Bibles. immigration, immigrants, christian, migrants, migration, bible no full 10 3 60d911f0-9947-41b4-8c3a-1ddf4a126667 Migration: Vedanta, Greeting the God with an Immigrant Face with Subrateem Ghosh Suprateem Ghosh is an IT Auditor by profession and a musician by heart along with a spiritual seeker who has been involved in few interfaith conversations in Dallas. He was raised in India where he completed his education and was exposed to multiple faiths and believes. His introduction to Advaita (non-dual) Vedanta was at an early age due to his parents. He also got his spiritual initiation at Ramakrishna Math Belur during his high school. 

]]> Tue, 25 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Suprateem Ghosh, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/vedanta-greeting-the-god-with-an-immigrant-face-with-subrateem-ghosh-QN0_fO9x Suprateem Ghosh is an IT Auditor by profession and a musician by heart along with a spiritual seeker who has been involved in few interfaith conversations in Dallas. He was raised in India where he completed his education and was exposed to multiple faiths and believes. His introduction to Advaita (non-dual) Vedanta was at an early age due to his parents. He also got his spiritual initiation at Ramakrishna Math Belur during his high school. 

]]> Migration: Vedanta, Greeting the God with an Immigrant Face with Subrateem Ghosh Suprateem Ghosh, Robert Hunt 00:12:48 Subprateem Ghosh of the Vedanta Movement speaks to us of both what his religion teaches about migrants, and what it is like to be one. Subprateem Ghosh of the Vedanta Movement speaks to us of both what his religion teaches about migrants, and what it is like to be one. hindu, vedanta, migrant, immigration, immigrant no full 9 3 b13db3fc-3e91-4f76-8394-adc044ece6a9 Migration: Islamic Views of Migration, an Ismaili Perspective with Dr. Zahra Jamal Zahra N. Jamal is Associate Director at Rice University's Boniuk Institute for Religious Tolerance, and a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Consultant. An award-winning former faculty member at Harvard and MIT, Dr. Jamal was founding director of the Civil Islam Initiative at University of Chicago, founding director of the Central Asia and International Development Initiative at Michigan State, and Associate Director at The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding’s Center for the Study of American Muslims. Her fieldwork covers voluntarism, migrant labor, gender-equity, and food security in Muslim societies. Dr. Jamal consults on gender, race, and religion for the UN, State Department, Department of Justice, Aspen Institute, Aga Khan Development Network, and private corporations. She has published with Duke University Press, The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and The Hill, and appeared on BBC World News. She received her M.A. and Ph.D. in cultural anthropology and Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard, double B.A. in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies and in Slavic Studies from Rice, and is a Certified Diversity Professional.

]]> Tue, 18 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Zahra Jamal) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/islamic-views-of-migration-an-ismaili-perspective-with-dr-zahra-jamal-TwyidqJn Zahra N. Jamal is Associate Director at Rice University's Boniuk Institute for Religious Tolerance, and a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Consultant. An award-winning former faculty member at Harvard and MIT, Dr. Jamal was founding director of the Civil Islam Initiative at University of Chicago, founding director of the Central Asia and International Development Initiative at Michigan State, and Associate Director at The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding’s Center for the Study of American Muslims. Her fieldwork covers voluntarism, migrant labor, gender-equity, and food security in Muslim societies. Dr. Jamal consults on gender, race, and religion for the UN, State Department, Department of Justice, Aspen Institute, Aga Khan Development Network, and private corporations. She has published with Duke University Press, The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and The Hill, and appeared on BBC World News. She received her M.A. and Ph.D. in cultural anthropology and Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard, double B.A. in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies and in Slavic Studies from Rice, and is a Certified Diversity Professional.

]]> Migration: Islamic Views of Migration, an Ismaili Perspective with Dr. Zahra Jamal Zahra Jamal 00:28:45 Dr. Zahra Jamal leads us into a deeper understanding of how Islamic views of humanity, and God, are reflected in Muslim engagements with Migrants. We learn how Ismaili spiritual leaders in the 20th and 21st century have played international role in addressing support for migrants and immigrants. Dr. Zahra Jamal leads us into a deeper understanding of how Islamic views of humanity, and God, are reflected in Muslim engagements with Migrants. We learn how Ismaili spiritual leaders in the 20th and 21st century have played international role in addressing support for migrants and immigrants. muslim, migrant, ismaili, migration, immigrant no full 8 3 ec5f09e3-1001-4626-8e08-50516d260f25 Migration: UMCOR and Immigrants and Migration with Rev. Jack Amick Rev. Jack Amick, Director of Global Migration, United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).  He directs UMCOR’s Global Migration portfolio and represents the global migration work of the General Board of Global Ministries.  In his coordination of Global Migration work, Amick serves on the United Methodist Immigration Task Force, on advisory committees for Church World Service, the board of NJFON, the ACT Alliance Migration and Displacement Reference Group, and maintains relations with several migration/refugee organizations. He has been serving at UMCOR for over seven years, 4 years of which involved the direction of disaster response programs. Amick served as pastor at local United Methodist Churches for seven years. Prior to being ordained as a United Methodist elder, Amick served two years with the Refugee Admissions Office of the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration at the U.S. Department of State and two years as Vice-Consul for Economic Affairs at the US Consulate in Mumbai, India.  As Desk Officer for Eastern Europe at the Peace Corps, Amick designed crisis responses to flooding in Central Europe and post-war recovery in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  In 1985, he volunteered for one year as director of Christian education for the seven Methodist Churches in the Caribbean nation of Grenada.  He has led the response to disasters in different contexts, including managing disaster damage assessments and family services with the American Red Cross.  Amick spent one year working with homeless individuals in the suburbs of Washington, DC.  He has been part of UMVIM teams that responded to needs in Grenada and Liberia as well as in the United States.  Amick has a Bachelor of Arts in International Service and Economics from The American University in Washington, DC, a Master of International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Arizona, and a Master of Divinity from the Boston University School of Theology.  Amick enjoys the outdoors, playing bagpipes, and writing liturgical prayers and poetry.  He is the father of two young adults and the husband of Rev. Susan Amick, United Methodist Deacon, who serves as Chaplain with Wesley Woods Senior Living in Atlanta.

]]> Tue, 11 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Jack Amick) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/umcor-and-immigrants-and-migration-with-rev-jack-amick-DtbCJAkE Rev. Jack Amick, Director of Global Migration, United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).  He directs UMCOR’s Global Migration portfolio and represents the global migration work of the General Board of Global Ministries.  In his coordination of Global Migration work, Amick serves on the United Methodist Immigration Task Force, on advisory committees for Church World Service, the board of NJFON, the ACT Alliance Migration and Displacement Reference Group, and maintains relations with several migration/refugee organizations. He has been serving at UMCOR for over seven years, 4 years of which involved the direction of disaster response programs. Amick served as pastor at local United Methodist Churches for seven years. Prior to being ordained as a United Methodist elder, Amick served two years with the Refugee Admissions Office of the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration at the U.S. Department of State and two years as Vice-Consul for Economic Affairs at the US Consulate in Mumbai, India.  As Desk Officer for Eastern Europe at the Peace Corps, Amick designed crisis responses to flooding in Central Europe and post-war recovery in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  In 1985, he volunteered for one year as director of Christian education for the seven Methodist Churches in the Caribbean nation of Grenada.  He has led the response to disasters in different contexts, including managing disaster damage assessments and family services with the American Red Cross.  Amick spent one year working with homeless individuals in the suburbs of Washington, DC.  He has been part of UMVIM teams that responded to needs in Grenada and Liberia as well as in the United States.  Amick has a Bachelor of Arts in International Service and Economics from The American University in Washington, DC, a Master of International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Arizona, and a Master of Divinity from the Boston University School of Theology.  Amick enjoys the outdoors, playing bagpipes, and writing liturgical prayers and poetry.  He is the father of two young adults and the husband of Rev. Susan Amick, United Methodist Deacon, who serves as Chaplain with Wesley Woods Senior Living in Atlanta.

]]> Migration: UMCOR and Immigrants and Migration with Rev. Jack Amick Robert Hunt, Jack Amick 00:18:41 The United Methodist Committee on Relief has become one of the world's largest relief agencies. It began serving people on the move during times of war. Dr. Jack Amick helps us understand how that work continues today. The United Methodist Committee on Relief has become one of the world's largest relief agencies. It began serving people on the move during times of war. Dr. Jack Amick helps us understand how that work continues today. immigration, migration, united methodist no full 7 3 59289a9f-959b-4ac4-a863-736f02781bfd Migration: The Sikh Response to Migrants and Migration with Manpreet Kaur Singh A Houston native dedicated to the causes of diversity and women’s empowerment, Manpreet K. Singh is a supervising attorney that has tried over 50 cases.  Currently a Chapter representative for the American Board of Trial Attorneys, she also is serving as a director and trustee with the Sikh Coalition. Recognized in 2018 & 2013 as a recipient for the Diversity First Award.  And in 2011 by the Houston Young Lawyers Association, Manpreet has also been a very active member of a variety of Houston and South Asian community organizations.  She has completed the Harvard Leadership Program and the American Bar Association Leadership Academy.

In 2009, Manpreet testified in front of the Texas Board of Education to include Sikhism (the world’s fifth largest religion) in school textbooks, which was then implemented by the Board for 6th and 10th grade levels. Manpreet continues to support this achievement by teaching many of these classes throughout Houston schools. She also conducts outreach sessions for Interfaith Ministries, for law enforcement, and for the Boniuk Center, where she is also served on the Board.  Manpreet also completed the FBI citizen’s diversity academy.

 

Nationally, Manpreet travels to Washington, DC annually to lobby for passage of the Safe Schools Act to ensure the safety and inclusion of all children in their schools, to advocate for increased diversity and inclusiveness in the US Army, and to have the FBI track hate crimes against the Sikh community, which was accomplished in 2013.  Locally Manpreet testified before Houston City Counsel in support of the Equal Rights Ordinance and was able to bring the Sikh Project displaying portraits of Sikhs across America, in the City Hall Rotunda for six weeks.

Manpreet has also frequently appeared in media to educate about diversity, including being interviewed by several news affiliates and writing op/ed pieces in print media about the effects of the 2012 shooting at the Wisconsin Sikh Gurdwara (place of worship).

In her free time, Manpreet enjoys traveling with her husband, reading, shopping and dancing in public to embarrass her two soccer stars.

]]> Tue, 4 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Manpreet Kaur Singh, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-sikh-response-to-migrants-and-migration-with-manpreet-kaur-singh-ZeLIkAWM A Houston native dedicated to the causes of diversity and women’s empowerment, Manpreet K. Singh is a supervising attorney that has tried over 50 cases.  Currently a Chapter representative for the American Board of Trial Attorneys, she also is serving as a director and trustee with the Sikh Coalition. Recognized in 2018 & 2013 as a recipient for the Diversity First Award.  And in 2011 by the Houston Young Lawyers Association, Manpreet has also been a very active member of a variety of Houston and South Asian community organizations.  She has completed the Harvard Leadership Program and the American Bar Association Leadership Academy.

In 2009, Manpreet testified in front of the Texas Board of Education to include Sikhism (the world’s fifth largest religion) in school textbooks, which was then implemented by the Board for 6th and 10th grade levels. Manpreet continues to support this achievement by teaching many of these classes throughout Houston schools. She also conducts outreach sessions for Interfaith Ministries, for law enforcement, and for the Boniuk Center, where she is also served on the Board.  Manpreet also completed the FBI citizen’s diversity academy.

 

Nationally, Manpreet travels to Washington, DC annually to lobby for passage of the Safe Schools Act to ensure the safety and inclusion of all children in their schools, to advocate for increased diversity and inclusiveness in the US Army, and to have the FBI track hate crimes against the Sikh community, which was accomplished in 2013.  Locally Manpreet testified before Houston City Counsel in support of the Equal Rights Ordinance and was able to bring the Sikh Project displaying portraits of Sikhs across America, in the City Hall Rotunda for six weeks.

Manpreet has also frequently appeared in media to educate about diversity, including being interviewed by several news affiliates and writing op/ed pieces in print media about the effects of the 2012 shooting at the Wisconsin Sikh Gurdwara (place of worship).

In her free time, Manpreet enjoys traveling with her husband, reading, shopping and dancing in public to embarrass her two soccer stars.

]]> Migration: The Sikh Response to Migrants and Migration with Manpreet Kaur Singh Manpreet Kaur Singh, Robert Hunt 00:18:24 Manpreet Kaur Singh tells us how the Sikh community supports - and deeply empathizes with immigrants and migrants. Manpreet Kaur Singh tells us how the Sikh community supports - and deeply empathizes with immigrants and migrants. sikh, immigrants, migrants, migration no full 6 3 1f1b93c0-c5e8-41d2-897b-81a043bae10e Migration: Bishop Greg Kelly on Migrants and Immigrants from a Catholic Perspective Bishop Kelly is a native of Iowa and grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He studied for the priesthood in Holy Trinity Seminary at the University of Dallas here in Irving and was ordained to the priesthood in 1982. He served in several parishes in the Dallas area since then and has served as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas since 2016. He has lived in Irving since 2008.

 

Bishop Kelly has been involved with:

  • Dallas Area Interfaith
  • Catholic Charities of Dallas
  • The Diocesan Immigration Taskforce
  • and is on the Board of Trustees at University of Dallas
]]> Tue, 27 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Bishop Greg Kelly, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/bishop-greg-kelly-on-migrants-and-immigrants-from-a-catholic-perspective-zb_mQWrz Bishop Kelly is a native of Iowa and grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He studied for the priesthood in Holy Trinity Seminary at the University of Dallas here in Irving and was ordained to the priesthood in 1982. He served in several parishes in the Dallas area since then and has served as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas since 2016. He has lived in Irving since 2008.

 

Bishop Kelly has been involved with:

  • Dallas Area Interfaith
  • Catholic Charities of Dallas
  • The Diocesan Immigration Taskforce
  • and is on the Board of Trustees at University of Dallas
]]> Migration: Bishop Greg Kelly on Migrants and Immigrants from a Catholic Perspective Bishop Greg Kelly, Robert Hunt 00:14:33 Bishop Greg Kelly, Auxiliary Bishop of the Dallas Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church, helps us understand the Catholic theology of immigration, and the practical and political ways in which the church is responsible for the immigrants. Bishop Greg Kelly, Auxiliary Bishop of the Dallas Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church, helps us understand the Catholic theology of immigration, and the practical and political ways in which the church is responsible for the immigrants. immigrants, catholic relief, migrants, catholic no full 5 3 a1809238-7b06-48d6-8bff-7327b5fd7f90 Migration: Rev. Marv Knox of Fellowship Southwest on Immigration and Immigrants Marv Knox is the coordinator of Fellowship Southwest, an ecumenical network affiliated with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Fellowship Southwest covers Arizona, New Mexico, Northern Mexico, Oklahoma, Southern California and Texas. It expands racial, ethnic and ecumenical relationships, and it builds partnerships to serve the most vulnerable people in the region.

Previously, Marv was editor of the Baptist Standard, Texas Baptists’ news organization, almost two decades, and a journalist almost four decades. 

Marv was born in Fort Worth and grew up in the Texas Panhandle. He’s a graduate of Hardin-Simmons University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

He and his wife, Joanna, have two daughters, two sons-in-law and five grandchildren. Marv and Joanna are active members of Valley Ranch Baptist Church in Coppell, Texas. 

]]> Tue, 20 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Marv Knox) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/rev-mark-knox-of-fellowship-southwest-on-immigration-and-immigrants-fTYGcXXz Marv Knox is the coordinator of Fellowship Southwest, an ecumenical network affiliated with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Fellowship Southwest covers Arizona, New Mexico, Northern Mexico, Oklahoma, Southern California and Texas. It expands racial, ethnic and ecumenical relationships, and it builds partnerships to serve the most vulnerable people in the region.

Previously, Marv was editor of the Baptist Standard, Texas Baptists’ news organization, almost two decades, and a journalist almost four decades. 

Marv was born in Fort Worth and grew up in the Texas Panhandle. He’s a graduate of Hardin-Simmons University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

He and his wife, Joanna, have two daughters, two sons-in-law and five grandchildren. Marv and Joanna are active members of Valley Ranch Baptist Church in Coppell, Texas. 

]]> Migration: Rev. Marv Knox of Fellowship Southwest on Immigration and Immigrants Robert Hunt, Marv Knox 00:24:59 Rev. Marv Knox, Executive Director of Fellowship Southwest, a regional ecumenical network founded by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship helps us understand an Christian perspective on Immigration. Rev. Marv Knox, Executive Director of Fellowship Southwest, a regional ecumenical network founded by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship helps us understand an Christian perspective on Immigration. immigrants, migration no full 4 3 ddb29e76-2720-4869-b7dc-76528858c20a Migration: Debra Boudreaux Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Debra Boudreaux is a senior volunteer with the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation. She has more than 31 years of experience working on major projects related to charity, medical care, education, and humanitarian aid. Debra was previously the CEO of Tzu Chi Medical Foundation. She leads Buddhist and Catholic interfaith dialogues and serves as a member of the UN Multi-Faith Advisory Council. She serves as the Board Secretary for Global NGO Executive Committee within the UN DGC NGO venue. She also serves as Board of Trustees of Parliament of the World's Religions.

Debra has visited Thailand Refugee Center, Turkey Refugee School, Malaysia Refugee Health Clinic and TJ Refugee Shelter. She has engaged with Climate Urgency and Climate Refugees, Internal Displacement Population crisis both domestic and International.

Debra graduated from University of Columbia Missouri. She engages in COVID-19 PPE distribution and Vaccination as well experiencing the medical racism at this pandemic crisis.

Debra Boudreaux patterns her daily life under the teaching of Venerable Master Shih Cheng Yen, Respect, gratitude and love to all sentient beings whenever and wherever we can.

]]> Tue, 13 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Debra Boudreaux) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/debra-boudreaux-buddhist-tzu-chi-foundation-5D9j4_BD Debra Boudreaux is a senior volunteer with the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation. She has more than 31 years of experience working on major projects related to charity, medical care, education, and humanitarian aid. Debra was previously the CEO of Tzu Chi Medical Foundation. She leads Buddhist and Catholic interfaith dialogues and serves as a member of the UN Multi-Faith Advisory Council. She serves as the Board Secretary for Global NGO Executive Committee within the UN DGC NGO venue. She also serves as Board of Trustees of Parliament of the World's Religions.

Debra has visited Thailand Refugee Center, Turkey Refugee School, Malaysia Refugee Health Clinic and TJ Refugee Shelter. She has engaged with Climate Urgency and Climate Refugees, Internal Displacement Population crisis both domestic and International.

Debra graduated from University of Columbia Missouri. She engages in COVID-19 PPE distribution and Vaccination as well experiencing the medical racism at this pandemic crisis.

Debra Boudreaux patterns her daily life under the teaching of Venerable Master Shih Cheng Yen, Respect, gratitude and love to all sentient beings whenever and wherever we can.

]]> Migration: Debra Boudreaux Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Debra Boudreaux 00:27:37 The Tzu Chi Foundation is an international organization of volunteers doing relief work among migrants, immigrants, and others in need across many nations. The Tzu Chi Foundation is an international organization of volunteers doing relief work among migrants, immigrants, and others in need across many nations. buddhism, immigrants, migrants no full 3 3 3b8e8aba-cf20-431b-b971-b6dab2b691af Migration: Anwar Khan and Islamic Relief USA on Migrants and Immigration Anwar Khan President of Islamic Relief USA.  He has more than twenty five years of experience working in the field of humanitarian and development assistance. Mr. Khan has extensive experience in the field: he has traveled to five continents visiting more than 20 countries that have been affected by human conflict or natural disaster zones. 

Before becoming President, Anwar held a variety of leadership roles at Islamic Relief USA, directing Islamic Relief USA’s program efforts; managing its fundraising offices and operations; overseeing its fund development work; and leading the organization as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Khan is the longest serving staff members in the organization.

Mr. Khan has also served on several boards such as Interaction, and was an advisor for U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid (ACVFA), and the U.S. State Department’s Religion and Foreign Policy Working Group. 

Currently, he serves on the board of World Food Program USA, Joint Learning Initiative and the Alliance to End Hunger. He is also on the advisory Council with the City of Alexandria Police and the Advisory Council for Muslim Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University. 

]]> Tue, 6 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Anwar Khan) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/anwar-khan-and-islamic-relief-usa-on-migrants-and-immigration-J8MqeAh4 Anwar Khan President of Islamic Relief USA.  He has more than twenty five years of experience working in the field of humanitarian and development assistance. Mr. Khan has extensive experience in the field: he has traveled to five continents visiting more than 20 countries that have been affected by human conflict or natural disaster zones. 

Before becoming President, Anwar held a variety of leadership roles at Islamic Relief USA, directing Islamic Relief USA’s program efforts; managing its fundraising offices and operations; overseeing its fund development work; and leading the organization as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Khan is the longest serving staff members in the organization.

Mr. Khan has also served on several boards such as Interaction, and was an advisor for U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid (ACVFA), and the U.S. State Department’s Religion and Foreign Policy Working Group. 

Currently, he serves on the board of World Food Program USA, Joint Learning Initiative and the Alliance to End Hunger. He is also on the advisory Council with the City of Alexandria Police and the Advisory Council for Muslim Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University. 

]]> Migration: Anwar Khan and Islamic Relief USA on Migrants and Immigration Robert Hunt, Anwar Khan 00:25:09 Anwar Khan speaks about Islamic understandings of responsibility toward Migrants, and the ways in which Islamic Relief fulfills those obligations. Anwar Khan speaks about Islamic understandings of responsibility toward Migrants, and the ways in which Islamic Relief fulfills those obligations. islam, immigrants, refugees, migrants no full 2 3 90581de5-db42-457f-8a30-64da5eb32b60 Migration: Julie Raymon of the AJC, Jewish Understandings of Migrants and Migration Tue, 30 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/jewish-understandings-of-migrants-and-migration-p46NFevZ Migration: Julie Raymon of the AJC, Jewish Understandings of Migrants and Migration Robert Hunt 00:19:58 Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs of the American Jewish Committee helps us understand how Jews relate through their history to migrants and immigrants, and what this means today. Since January 2012, Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs, has served as the lead legislative advocate for AJC’s policy priorities. On behalf of AJC, she has supported the launch of congressional caucuses such as the Bipartisan Taskforce for Antisemitism, the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, and the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance. Regularly on Capitol Hill to advocate for AJC priority legislation, she has helped position AJC as a thought and policy leader in combating global antisemitism and hate, promoting Israel’s place in the world, promoting pluralism, and advocating for strong, principled American global leadership. In addition to spearheading AJC’s outreach on Capitol Hill, Rayman also fulfills a variety of senior political liaison responsibilities for AJC, engaging with candidates and elected officials, crafting and promulgating policy position papers and Party platform suggestions, and spearheading AJC’s events on the sidelines of the Republican and Democratic National Conventions. Before coming to AJC, she was senior advisor to Congressman Heath Shuler, covering foreign policy, human rights, defense, and homeland security. Rayman holds a B.A. from American University as well as a Master’s from the National Defense University in Strategic Security Studies, with a concentration in counterterrorism. She also holds an M.A. from Georgetown University in Religious Studies. Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs of the American Jewish Committee helps us understand how Jews relate through their history to migrants and immigrants, and what this means today. Since January 2012, Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs, has served as the lead legislative advocate for AJC’s policy priorities. On behalf of AJC, she has supported the launch of congressional caucuses such as the Bipartisan Taskforce for Antisemitism, the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, and the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance. Regularly on Capitol Hill to advocate for AJC priority legislation, she has helped position AJC as a thought and policy leader in combating global antisemitism and hate, promoting Israel’s place in the world, promoting pluralism, and advocating for strong, principled American global leadership. In addition to spearheading AJC’s outreach on Capitol Hill, Rayman also fulfills a variety of senior political liaison responsibilities for AJC, engaging with candidates and elected officials, crafting and promulgating policy position papers and Party platform suggestions, and spearheading AJC’s events on the sidelines of the Republican and Democratic National Conventions. Before coming to AJC, she was senior advisor to Congressman Heath Shuler, covering foreign policy, human rights, defense, and homeland security. Rayman holds a B.A. from American University as well as a Master’s from the National Defense University in Strategic Security Studies, with a concentration in counterterrorism. She also holds an M.A. from Georgetown University in Religious Studies. no full 1 3 013feacf-5dd3-4970-b3aa-89d818869281 Religious Freedom Wrap-up Part 2 with Dr. Hunt Tue, 9 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/religious-freedom-wrap-up-part-2-with-dr-hunt-n8dZkCYi Religious Freedom Wrap-up Part 2 with Dr. Hunt Robert Hunt 00:13:05 Dr Hunt explores how religious freedom must be understood in the context of the US Constitution and it lofty goals for American society. Dr Hunt explores how religious freedom must be understood in the context of the US Constitution and it lofty goals for American society. first amendment, religious freedom, first liberty no full 14 2 0de6f6d4-900c-4a2f-bfb5-ec8ed1e6c9ec Religious Freedom Wrap Up Part 1 with Dr. Robert Hunt Tue, 2 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/religious-freedom-wrap-up-part-1-with-dr-robert-hunt-iRw97DM7 Religious Freedom Wrap Up Part 1 with Dr. Robert Hunt Robert Hunt 00:18:03 Dr. Hunt addresses the way in which the realm of religious freedom has expanded while the separation of religion and the state has diminished. What that means is increased tension and politicization that may serve neither religion nor society. Dr. Hunt addresses the way in which the realm of religious freedom has expanded while the separation of religion and the state has diminished. What that means is increased tension and politicization that may serve neither religion nor society. first amendment, religious freedom, religious liberty no full 13 2 201a9a3c-3923-44a7-b4a5-baf55608b7ca Religious Freedom: Dr. Sabrina Dent, Religious Freedom and the African American Experience “For nearly 75 years, Americans United has consistently shown up in the public square ready to protect America’s constitutional guarantee of church-state separation that ensures religious freedom for all of us,” said Dr. Dent. “For me, this is especially important when we recall the dark and complicated history of a nation that has often overlooked the human rights of racial and religious minorities. I am excited to build relationships with AU’s longtime friends and to develop new interfaith partnerships in support of advocating for social justice, human dignity and freedom for all.”

]]> Wed, 24 Feb 2021 11:40:50 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Sabrina Dent) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-sabrina-dent-religious-freedom-and-the-african-american-experience-v5_8_czi “For nearly 75 years, Americans United has consistently shown up in the public square ready to protect America’s constitutional guarantee of church-state separation that ensures religious freedom for all of us,” said Dr. Dent. “For me, this is especially important when we recall the dark and complicated history of a nation that has often overlooked the human rights of racial and religious minorities. I am excited to build relationships with AU’s longtime friends and to develop new interfaith partnerships in support of advocating for social justice, human dignity and freedom for all.”

]]> Religious Freedom: Dr. Sabrina Dent, Religious Freedom and the African American Experience Robert Hunt, Sabrina Dent 00:29:25 Dr. Sabrina Dent, editor and contributor to Religious Freedom: African American Perspectives is currently a Sr. Faith Advisor for Americans United For Separation of Church and State. Dr. Sabrina Dent, editor and contributor to Religious Freedom: African American Perspectives is currently a Sr. Faith Advisor for Americans United For Separation of Church and State. human rights, religious freedom, african american, black church no full 12 2 828e3412-d8db-46f2-87f7-627767ca3947 Religious Freedom: Dr. Marci Hamilton, author of God and the Gavel Tue, 15 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Dr. Marci Hamilton, Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-marci-hamilton-author-of-god-and-the-gavel-_pv71Buc Religious Freedom: Dr. Marci Hamilton, author of God and the Gavel Dr. Marci Hamilton, Dr. Robert Hunt 00:23:34 Dr. Marci Hamilton, author, professor, and lawyer, has argued key religious freedom cases before the Supreme Court. In this interview she explains both why religious liberty is critical, and how a culture of religious liberty unconcerned with the public good and individual harm undermines our society. Dr. Marci Hamilton, author, professor, and lawyer, has argued key religious freedom cases before the Supreme Court. In this interview she explains both why religious liberty is critical, and how a culture of religious liberty unconcerned with the public good and individual harm undermines our society. first amendment, marci hamilton, religious freedom, 1st amendment, religious liberty no full 11 2 adf844f7-1702-4313-b6a3-951f17fcd1e4 Religious Freedom: Joel Schwitzer, of the American Jewish Committee on Freedom of Religion Tue, 8 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/joel-schwitzer-of-the-american-jewish-committee-on-freedom-of-religion-jfHJgVt8 Religious Freedom: Joel Schwitzer, of the American Jewish Committee on Freedom of Religion Robert Hunt 00:17:29 Joel Schwitzer, regional director of the North Texas American Jewish Committee draws on his long experience with Jewish organizations to deepen our understanding of how religious freedom for one depends on religious freedom for all. And how dialogue is crucial. Joel Schwitzer, regional director of the North Texas American Jewish Committee draws on his long experience with Jewish organizations to deepen our understanding of how religious freedom for one depends on religious freedom for all. And how dialogue is crucial. no full 10 2 f6274f33-4000-4096-8cb6-6551ce017f83 Religious Freedom: Dr. D. Stephen Long, University Professor of Ethics at Southern Methodist University Tue, 1 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, D. Stephen Long) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-d-stephen-long-university-professor-of-ethics-at-southern-methodist-university-EnjbH8k9 Religious Freedom: Dr. D. Stephen Long, University Professor of Ethics at Southern Methodist University Robert Hunt, D. Stephen Long 00:16:00 Dr. Long examines the right to religious freedom as a right that originates with God and should be acknowledged by the state as a fundamental human right. Dr. Long examines the right to religious freedom as a right that originates with God and should be acknowledged by the state as a fundamental human right. human rights, religious freedom no full 9 2 891ce620-53fc-40e4-bfdc-a073e86ea26c Religious Freedom: Professor Qudsia Mirza at Birkbeck University on Religious Freedom in International Law Tue, 24 Nov 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Qudsia Mirza) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/professor-qudsia-mirza-at-birkbeck-university-on-religious-freedom-in-international-law-ckT1jf9D Religious Freedom: Professor Qudsia Mirza at Birkbeck University on Religious Freedom in International Law Robert Hunt, Qudsia Mirza 00:31:38 Dr. Mirza discusses human rights in the international framework of laws, with special attention to more specific regional laws such as Islamic Shari'a in dominantly Muslim countries. Dr. Mirza discusses human rights in the international framework of laws, with special attention to more specific regional laws such as Islamic Shari'a in dominantly Muslim countries. human rights, religious freedom, islamic law no full 8 2 a8621dcb-5c11-4a4c-a670-a6619360107c Religious Freedom: Rick Halperin, Director of the SMU Human Rights Program Tue, 17 Nov 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/rick-halperin-director-of-the-smu-human-rights-program-4er6t2pq Religious Freedom: Rick Halperin, Director of the SMU Human Rights Program Robert Hunt 00:16:21 Dr. Rick Halperin, head of the SMU Human Rights program talks about how education in the fundamental right of religious freedom is necessary if we are to protect the rights of all. Dr. Rick Halperin, head of the SMU Human Rights program talks about how education in the fundamental right of religious freedom is necessary if we are to protect the rights of all. no full 7 2 e54005c5-6fa7-40c7-abcc-df75e48cedcf Religious Freedom: Sharon Grant, Hood Theological Seminary and Faculty of the Religious Freedom Center, Freedom Forum Institute Tue, 10 Nov 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Sharon Grant) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/sharon-grant-hood-theological-seminary-and-faculty-of-the-religious-freedom-center-freedom-forum-institute-vS7Kxgit Religious Freedom: Sharon Grant, Hood Theological Seminary and Faculty of the Religious Freedom Center, Freedom Forum Institute Robert Hunt, Sharon Grant 00:14:35 Dr. Grant helps us understand religious freedom in light of the experience of African Americans, who have found their religious identity, and freedom of expression, suppressed and under assault. Dr. Grant helps us understand religious freedom in light of the experience of African Americans, who have found their religious identity, and freedom of expression, suppressed and under assault. no full 6 2 e7002c09-3b7e-4c37-abd1-0d90ed4ed721 Religious Freedom: Dr. Eboo Patel of the Interfaith Youth Core Tue, 3 Nov 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Eboo Patel) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-eboo-patel-of-the-interfaith-youth-corps-Mv3VlY2n Religious Freedom: Dr. Eboo Patel of the Interfaith Youth Core Robert Hunt, Eboo Patel 00:17:37 Dr. Patel reminds us that religious freedom also requires granting different religious groups full dignity in the public sphere. Dr. Patel reminds us that religious freedom also requires granting different religious groups full dignity in the public sphere. no full 5 2 a14a30bf-d959-4b3f-be30-f9cd90a833eb Religious Freedom: Rachel Bresner of the Anti-Defamation League on religious freedom Tue, 27 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/rachel-bresner-of-the-anti-defamation-league-on-religious-freedom-X6VOXr67 Religious Freedom: Rachel Bresner of the Anti-Defamation League on religious freedom Robert Hunt 00:25:36 Rachel Bresner of the ADL guides us in understanding the constitutional law surrounding the first amendment, and the shield of religious freedom should never be used to justify the sword of discrimination. Rachel Bresner of the ADL guides us in understanding the constitutional law surrounding the first amendment, and the shield of religious freedom should never be used to justify the sword of discrimination. no full 4 2 b72e8854-2706-4638-8b73-59cda879ef61 Religious Freedom: Rev. Rachel Baughman of Oaklawn United Methodist Church Tue, 20 Oct 2020 06:05:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Rachel Bauchman, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/rev-rachel-baughman-of-oaklawn-united-methodist-church-7EidIN_q Religious Freedom: Rev. Rachel Baughman of Oaklawn United Methodist Church Rachel Bauchman, Robert Hunt 00:22:27 Rev. Rachel Baughman of Oaklawn UMC tells us how her congregation's freedom to minister according to the teaching of Jesus is hindered by city ordinances and a not-in-my-back-yard mentality among their neighbors. Rev. Rachel Baughman of Oaklawn UMC tells us how her congregation's freedom to minister according to the teaching of Jesus is hindered by city ordinances and a not-in-my-back-yard mentality among their neighbors. first amendment, homelessness, religious freedom, marginalized no full 3 2 167ddb5d-9f7c-4a56-936c-754b6928429b Religious Freedom: Kelly Shackleford of First Liberty Institute on Religious Freedom See https://firstliberty.org for more information on Mr. Shackleford's organization and its perspectives on religious freedom. 

]]> Tue, 13 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Kelly Shackleford, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/kelly-shackleford-of-first-liberty-institute-on-religious-freedom-WGfyMQjw See https://firstliberty.org for more information on Mr. Shackleford's organization and its perspectives on religious freedom. 

]]> Religious Freedom: Kelly Shackleford of First Liberty Institute on Religious Freedom Kelly Shackleford, Robert Hunt 00:20:50 Kelly Shackleford, President and Chief Counsel of First Liberty Institute briefs us on his understanding of what religious freedom means, why it is important, and how issues around religious freedom are playing out in court. Kelly Shackleford, President and Chief Counsel of First Liberty Institute briefs us on his understanding of what religious freedom means, why it is important, and how issues around religious freedom are playing out in court. no full 2 2 1d364abc-c299-4109-bed1-719d17462152 Religious Freedom: Brian Grim, Religious Freedom and Business Foundation See http://religiousfreedomandbusiness.org for more information.

]]> Tue, 6 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Dr. Brian Grim, Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/religious-freedom-with-brian-grim-religion-freedom-and-business-foundation-_XM09202 See http://religiousfreedomandbusiness.org for more information.

]]> Religious Freedom: Brian Grim, Religious Freedom and Business Foundation Dr. Brian Grim, Dr. Robert Hunt 00:21:03 Brian Grim of the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation discusses what it means for businesses around the world to allow and encourage the authenticity of religious belief and expression by their employees. Brian Grim of the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation discusses what it means for businesses around the world to allow and encourage the authenticity of religious belief and expression by their employees. business and religion, religious freedom no full 1 2 5cd5ad83-31e1-4da7-9044-7c23d94a9d07 Covid 19 and the United Methodists Bishop McKee is a native of Fort Worth, Texas. He was ordained as a United Methodist elder in 1979 and has served a variety of churches. He has also been a delegate to three Jurisdictional Conferences and two General Conferences.

In 2012, Rev. McKee was elected to the episcopacy by the South Central Jurisdictional Conference and assigned to serve as the resident bishop of the Dallas Area.

 

]]> Tue, 19 May 2020 05:10:31 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/united-methodists-and-the-covid-19-pandemic-nEpyV3Fx Bishop McKee is a native of Fort Worth, Texas. He was ordained as a United Methodist elder in 1979 and has served a variety of churches. He has also been a delegate to three Jurisdictional Conferences and two General Conferences.

In 2012, Rev. McKee was elected to the episcopacy by the South Central Jurisdictional Conference and assigned to serve as the resident bishop of the Dallas Area.

 

]]> Covid 19 and the United Methodists Robert Hunt 00:10:44 In this interview Bishop McKee gives us insight into the Methodist tradition of social holiness, and how attending to the needs of neighbors is central to the United Methodist ethos. In this interview Bishop McKee gives us insight into the Methodist tradition of social holiness, and how attending to the needs of neighbors is central to the United Methodist ethos. no full 9 1 4d20254a-9842-483e-891b-838937260b79 Covid 19 and The Hindu Community Mr. Krishnamurth is a past trustee of the The DFW Hindu Temple and has been involved in Temple related activities from before the formal founding of the temple.

The Hindu Temple Society was founded in Jun 1982. Ever since, Mr. Krishnamurthy has been associated with the Hindu Temple in Irving essentially in religious matters. He was the Chairman of the Religious committee when the temple installed the Deities in the temple during 1990-92 period. He served as a trustee of the Temple for ten years during the period 2004 to 2014 and in 2005 he was the Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

In 2002, he founded NAADHOPAASANAA which is a cultural arm of the religious services in the temple, much like the choir singing groups in the churches. It consists of performances of classical religious music and dances inside the Temple and is in its nineteenth year. The dances and music are for the enjoyment of God in our temple. This is considered one of the essential services in a Hindu Temple. Every year, over three hundred artists, mostly from the DFW area, are engaged in about fifteen to twenty, three-hour programs of Naadhopaasanaa.

 

]]> Fri, 15 May 2020 05:10:22 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, SP Krishnamurthy) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/the-hindu-community-and-the-covid-19-pandemic-IG0_keKW Mr. Krishnamurth is a past trustee of the The DFW Hindu Temple and has been involved in Temple related activities from before the formal founding of the temple.

The Hindu Temple Society was founded in Jun 1982. Ever since, Mr. Krishnamurthy has been associated with the Hindu Temple in Irving essentially in religious matters. He was the Chairman of the Religious committee when the temple installed the Deities in the temple during 1990-92 period. He served as a trustee of the Temple for ten years during the period 2004 to 2014 and in 2005 he was the Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

In 2002, he founded NAADHOPAASANAA which is a cultural arm of the religious services in the temple, much like the choir singing groups in the churches. It consists of performances of classical religious music and dances inside the Temple and is in its nineteenth year. The dances and music are for the enjoyment of God in our temple. This is considered one of the essential services in a Hindu Temple. Every year, over three hundred artists, mostly from the DFW area, are engaged in about fifteen to twenty, three-hour programs of Naadhopaasanaa.

 

]]> Covid 19 and The Hindu Community Robert Hunt, SP Krishnamurthy 00:17:41 In this episode Mr. S. P. Krishnamurthy of the DFW Hindu Temple Society will first introduce Hinduism and its key values and teachings before discussing how the COVID 19 pandemic is affecting his community. In this episode Mr. S. P. Krishnamurthy of the DFW Hindu Temple Society will first introduce Hinduism and its key values and teachings before discussing how the COVID 19 pandemic is affecting his community. hinduism, interfaith, covid19 no full 8 1 e0716a69-cd6d-40a2-bce1-5091195eca74 COVID 19 and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Mark Romney is currently serving as the Stake President of the Dallas Texas Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Prior to being called as Stake President in February 2016 he served from 2006 as the Second Counselor and then the First Counselor in the Dallas Stake Presidency. Among other Church positions held are Bishop, High Councilor, Ward Young Men’s President and Scoutmaster. As a youth he earned the Eagle Scout award and in 2017 was honored to receive Scouting’s Silver Beaver Award from the Circle 10 Council in Dallas. From 1972-74 he served a full-time mission for the Church in Brazil South Mission, later the Brazil Porto Alegre Mission which then comprised the states of Rio Grande do Sul and the southern half of Santa Catarina, Brazil. He is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish although his Portugues is very rusty and most likely will sound like Portañol.

Mr Romney is the owner of the Texas law firm, Romney Law Firm, where he is actively engaged in international transactions law with an emphasis on Latin American issues an representation of Latin American clients in the United States

]]> Tue, 12 May 2020 05:10:08 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Mark Romney) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/covid-19-and-the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints-8KF55cAL Mark Romney is currently serving as the Stake President of the Dallas Texas Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Prior to being called as Stake President in February 2016 he served from 2006 as the Second Counselor and then the First Counselor in the Dallas Stake Presidency. Among other Church positions held are Bishop, High Councilor, Ward Young Men’s President and Scoutmaster. As a youth he earned the Eagle Scout award and in 2017 was honored to receive Scouting’s Silver Beaver Award from the Circle 10 Council in Dallas. From 1972-74 he served a full-time mission for the Church in Brazil South Mission, later the Brazil Porto Alegre Mission which then comprised the states of Rio Grande do Sul and the southern half of Santa Catarina, Brazil. He is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish although his Portugues is very rusty and most likely will sound like Portañol.

Mr Romney is the owner of the Texas law firm, Romney Law Firm, where he is actively engaged in international transactions law with an emphasis on Latin American issues an representation of Latin American clients in the United States

]]> COVID 19 and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Robert Hunt, Mark Romney 00:15:41 Mark Romney, Stake President of the Dallas Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, shares how his community is responding to the COVID 19 crisis and how their faith shapes that response. Mark Romney, Stake President of the Dallas Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, shares how his community is responding to the COVID 19 crisis and how their faith shapes that response. interfaith, pandemic, latter-day saints, covid19 no full 7 1 3b3db581-9d56-47dd-8d67-ebcfc0ede1e0 COVID 19 and the Buddhist Community Dr. Reid is a professor at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and coordinator of the clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. He is a long time member of the International Buddhist Progress society in Richardson, where he teaches dharma. 
He offers the following recommendations for online guidance in Buddhist Meditation.

Lama Surya Das http://www.surya.org/

Sharon Salzburg https://www.sharonsalzberg.com/

Roshi Joan Halifax https://www.upaya.org/

]]> Fri, 8 May 2020 05:05:17 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/covid-19-and-the-buddhist-community-l5jBXhAy Dr. Reid is a professor at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and coordinator of the clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. He is a long time member of the International Buddhist Progress society in Richardson, where he teaches dharma. 
He offers the following recommendations for online guidance in Buddhist Meditation.

Lama Surya Das http://www.surya.org/

Sharon Salzburg https://www.sharonsalzberg.com/

Roshi Joan Halifax https://www.upaya.org/

]]> COVID 19 and the Buddhist Community Robert Hunt 00:17:48 Dr. John Reid shares his insights as a long time Buddhist, dharma teacher, and community member about how his community is responding to the COVID 19 Pandemic Dr. John Reid shares his insights as a long time Buddhist, dharma teacher, and community member about how his community is responding to the COVID 19 Pandemic no full 6 1 b60b2b82-6311-4d45-a2dc-fda28fd25d87 COVID 19 and the African American Christian Community Rev. Dr. Michael Waters is the founding pastor of the Abundant Life African Methodist Episcopal Church in Dallas, Texas. Known as a pastor, professor, award-winning author, activist, and social commentator, his words of hope and empowerment inspire national and international audiences.

He earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees with honors from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.

He is also the author of the national award-winning books Freestyle: Reflections on Faith, Family, Justice, and Pop Culture and Stakes Is High: Race, Faith, and Hope for America, winner of the prestigious National Wilbur Award in Non-fiction. His forthcoming books include For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World and Liberty’s Civil Rights Road Trip, the former in partnership with the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

]]> Tue, 5 May 2020 05:00:07 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Michael Waters, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/covid-19-and-the-african-american-christian-community-koQXUTuY Rev. Dr. Michael Waters is the founding pastor of the Abundant Life African Methodist Episcopal Church in Dallas, Texas. Known as a pastor, professor, award-winning author, activist, and social commentator, his words of hope and empowerment inspire national and international audiences.

He earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees with honors from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.

He is also the author of the national award-winning books Freestyle: Reflections on Faith, Family, Justice, and Pop Culture and Stakes Is High: Race, Faith, and Hope for America, winner of the prestigious National Wilbur Award in Non-fiction. His forthcoming books include For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World and Liberty’s Civil Rights Road Trip, the former in partnership with the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

]]> COVID 19 and the African American Christian Community Michael Waters, Robert Hunt 00:20:13 Rev. Dr. Michael Waters shares with us how the African American Christian community is affected by and addresses the COVID 19 Pandemic. Rev. Dr. Michael Waters shares with us how the African American Christian community is affected by and addresses the COVID 19 Pandemic. covid 19, ame church, michael waters no full 5 1 62bafeed-6f39-4811-ae4a-a8f17afc4b66 COVID 19 and the Jewish Community Fri, 1 May 2020 05:00:05 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/covid-19-and-the-jewish-community-V3iV3wHI COVID 19 and the Jewish Community Robert Hunt 00:20:00 In this episode Rabbi Bentzi Epstein of the Dallas Area Torah Association discusses the response to, and effect of COVID 19 in the Jewish, and particularly the Orthodox Jewish Community. In this episode Rabbi Bentzi Epstein of the Dallas Area Torah Association discusses the response to, and effect of COVID 19 in the Jewish, and particularly the Orthodox Jewish Community. interreligious dialogue, inter religious understandings, jewish no full 4 1 3227d405-92b9-4cb0-a137-68d280e2e928 COVID 19 and the Sikh Community Our guest today is Harbhajan Singh Virdee. He is a member of the Sikh Community and has been residing in the North Texas area for over 30 years. He is a founding member and President of Gurdwara Nishkam Seva (Sikh Temple) in Irving. He has been representing the community on various interfaith groups such as Faith Forward Dallas and the Interfaith Council of the Thanks-Giving Foundation. Harbhajan has organized many charitable projects such as supporting food banks and activities to raise funds for cancer research.

]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2020 06:00:10 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Harbhajan Singh Virdee, Dr. Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/covid-19-and-the-sikh-community-zLKvvpfl Our guest today is Harbhajan Singh Virdee. He is a member of the Sikh Community and has been residing in the North Texas area for over 30 years. He is a founding member and President of Gurdwara Nishkam Seva (Sikh Temple) in Irving. He has been representing the community on various interfaith groups such as Faith Forward Dallas and the Interfaith Council of the Thanks-Giving Foundation. Harbhajan has organized many charitable projects such as supporting food banks and activities to raise funds for cancer research.

]]> COVID 19 and the Sikh Community Harbhajan Singh Virdee, Dr. Robert Hunt 00:14:48 In this episode Harbhajan Singh Virdee discusses how COVID 19 affects the Sikh community, of particular note is the communities close ties with its origins in the Indian subcontinent. In this episode Harbhajan Singh Virdee discusses how COVID 19 affects the Sikh community, of particular note is the communities close ties with its origins in the Indian subcontinent. covid 19, sikh, interfaith, interreligious no full 3 1 26ce1aea-dca2-42de-843e-889b582f8a0c COVID 19 and Vedanta Community Pravrajika Brahmaprana joined the Sarada Convent at the Vedanta Society of Southern California, in 1973 and has been an ordained sannyasini since 1984. She has been a Vedanta representative on several interfaith councils in America, including the Hindu-Catholic Dialogue sponsored by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Snowmass InterSpiritual Dialogue, founded by Thomas Keating, O.C.S.O.; a guest lecturer at schools, colleges, and universities in America and India; and has participated in interfaith and scholastic seminars in America and abroad.

Brahmaprana has compiled and edited several books on Vedanta, including The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda, Volume 9; Vivekacudamani of Sri Sankaracarya, translated by Swami Turiyananda; With the Swamis in America and India, and A Light to the West: the Life and Teachings of Swami Prabhavananda. She has also written numerous articles on the philosophy and practice of Vedanta for journals and anthologies in America and abroad. Brahmaprana is currently the resident minister of the Ramakrishna Vedanta Society of North Texas, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

]]> Fri, 24 Apr 2020 06:00:03 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Pravrijika Brahmaprana, Robert Hunt) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/covid-19-and-vedanta-community-sHCyg4Iq Pravrajika Brahmaprana joined the Sarada Convent at the Vedanta Society of Southern California, in 1973 and has been an ordained sannyasini since 1984. She has been a Vedanta representative on several interfaith councils in America, including the Hindu-Catholic Dialogue sponsored by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Snowmass InterSpiritual Dialogue, founded by Thomas Keating, O.C.S.O.; a guest lecturer at schools, colleges, and universities in America and India; and has participated in interfaith and scholastic seminars in America and abroad.

Brahmaprana has compiled and edited several books on Vedanta, including The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda, Volume 9; Vivekacudamani of Sri Sankaracarya, translated by Swami Turiyananda; With the Swamis in America and India, and A Light to the West: the Life and Teachings of Swami Prabhavananda. She has also written numerous articles on the philosophy and practice of Vedanta for journals and anthologies in America and abroad. Brahmaprana is currently the resident minister of the Ramakrishna Vedanta Society of North Texas, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

]]> COVID 19 and Vedanta Community Pravrijika Brahmaprana, Robert Hunt 00:14:56 In this episode Pravrajika Brahmaprana discusses how the COVID 19 epidemic is affecting the Vedanta community in Dallas Texas, which is part of the larger Hindu community. In this episode Pravrajika Brahmaprana discusses how the COVID 19 epidemic is affecting the Vedanta community in Dallas Texas, which is part of the larger Hindu community. dialogue, covid 19, vedanta, interfaith no full 2 1 aab643ad-1e1b-41a2-8648-1ff5478c2737 COVID 19 and the Muslim Community In addition to his work in Islamic Relief Mr Azeez offers us the following as a follow up of his interview:

Interfaith Solidarity in the midst of Global Pandemic. With the Passover, Easter and Ramadan around the corner  The leaders of the Union for Reform Judaism, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, & the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) come together at the outset of their respective holy days in solidarity and in hope.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=QDcoth4I9kA

]]> Tue, 21 Apr 2020 11:45:25 +0000 roberth@smu.edu (Robert Hunt, Azhar Azeez) https://interfaith-encounters.simplecast.com/episodes/covid-19-and-the-muslim-community-nl_2C_ck In addition to his work in Islamic Relief Mr Azeez offers us the following as a follow up of his interview:

Interfaith Solidarity in the midst of Global Pandemic. With the Passover, Easter and Ramadan around the corner  The leaders of the Union for Reform Judaism, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, & the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) come together at the outset of their respective holy days in solidarity and in hope.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=QDcoth4I9kA

]]> COVID 19 and the Muslim Community Robert Hunt, Azhar Azeez 00:20:41 In this episode Azhar Azeez, past president of the Islamic Society of North America and Vice President of Islamic Relief USA discusses how the Muslim community is responding to and is affected by COVID 19. In this episode Azhar Azeez, past president of the Islamic Society of North America and Vice President of Islamic Relief USA discusses how the Muslim community is responding to and is affected by COVID 19. covid 19, muslim, islam no full 1 1