Chance to socialize as well as to explore what it means to be merciful
By Josh Tng
The B.C. Catholic
Three speakers from faiths derived from the patriarch Abraham will gather to explain what it means to be merciful.
“His Mercy Endures Forever” is an interfaith event with speakers from Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, said Marjeta Bobnar, coordinator of Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations for the Archdiocese of Vancouver. “The speakers will be presenting how mercy is understood and practised in these three religious traditions.”
Speakers will include Sister John Mary Sullivan, FSE, a program specialist for the Archdiocesan Life, Marriage, and Family Office; Rabbi Jonathan Infeld of Beth Israel; and Imam Mohammad Shujaath Ali Nadwi of Masjidul Hagg in Vancouver.
“This event will provide an opportunity to learn about religious practices concerning mercy that might not be so familiar to Catholics,” Bobnar said.
She noted the event would provide an opportunity to socialize with individuals from other faiths, and hoped the event would promote interfaith relationships. “There will be live music provided by a Jewish group named Sulam and an Arabic group named Rayhan.”
Maureen Donegan, the Catholic Charities Justice Services coordinator, will give a testimony regarding mercy in her ministry. “The purpose of the event is therefore to learn about mercy in the Abrahamic religions, and get to know members from these faith communities,” said Bobnar.
The event will be on Nov. 8, 5-8 p.m., at the John Paul II Pastoral Centre, 4818 Willow St., Vancouver, and dinner will be provided. Tickets: adults $20, students $10. Info: Bobnar, 604-683-0281, ecumenism@rcav.org.
