The Kaufman Institute, in cooperation with the Fetzer Institute (Kalamazoo), is hosting a series of small gatherings of leaders representing interfaith initiatives and organizations from across the State of Michigan in 2024. Our hope is that these convenings will serve as an opportunity to learn about and identify best practices as well as offer mutual support to one another as we engage in the challenging work of building bridges across division.  

Pursuing Anti-Racism and Communities of Belonging

This first convening will delve into the justice and equity dimensions of interfaith by focusing on how different traditions talk about human connection and belonging (theologies, teaching, practices, etc.) and subsequently how advancing those narratives (or a shared narrative) of connection might re-frame and re-energize the Interfaith Movement. Additionally, we plan to discuss the historical and contemporary barriers that have alienated and excluded predominately BIPOC spiritualities from Interfaith spaces. 

February 20-21

Exploring Language for Pluralism and Human Flourishing

Building on the theme of human belonging, this convening will be a deep dive into our language and vernacular for engaging in the work of interfaith and pluralism. The terms we use carry with them distinct connotations, denotations, and biases that all play a part in enhancing or inhibiting spaces of belonging. During this convening, we will work together to identify the barriers and opportunities of language as we work towards a shared and effective vernacular for the future of the movement. We recognize that we all come to the table with different levels of experience and engagement, and as such, we want to be clear that our April conversation will be intentionally foundational, a step back to explore the words and phrases we use to create hospitable interfaith space and upon which relationships are formed.

April 16-17

Critical Hope: Envisioning the Future of Interfaith

As a capstone, this final convening will draw upon the collective wisdom gathered and the self-reflection encouraged during this series to identify emerging characteristics and best practices for interfaith initiatives. Through a lens of belonging, aware of both our past and present, we’ll explore interfaith spaces that move people towards a pluralistic future.

June 20-21

If you're currently leading an interfaith initiative and are interested in joining us, please contact [email protected] for more information.