On December 19, 2023, the Interfaith Center of New York co-sponsored the “Hate to Hope” event with the Interfaith Center of USA, United Nations Associations USA of the Queens Chapter of, the Interfaith Center of New York, the Flushing Interfaith Council, and the Micah Table. Community members, representatives from hate crime organizations, and school leaders shared testimonies, offering perspectives on the challenges faced by diverse communities. As the attendees acknowledged the growing increase of hate crimes across the city and worldwide, all reiterated the importance of religious education and tolerance.
Specifically, the Interfaith Center of New York and Micah Table, represented by Rev. Chloe Breyer and Rev. Joel Gibson, respectively, shared a collaborative statement, “A Season and Time for Every Matter Under Heaven: A Multi-Faith Call to Healing and Consolation,” repasted below. The statement addresses the rising rates of Islamophobia and Anti-Semitism, a direct result of the escalating violence in the Middle East.
“The conflict that has raged in the Holy Land over the past several months, leaving thousands of people dead – most of them women and children, burdens our hearts. Battered by horror, anger, fear, despair, and grief, our souls as persons of faith – like those of our brothers and sisters in Israel and Palestine alike – cry out for healing, relief, and comfort. In the midst of this grave trial for all of humanity, sadly bigotry against Jews and Muslims has once again raised its ugly head across our city as well as in the nation.
“Struggling to fulfill the great commandment to love our neighbors as ourselves, and drawing inspiration from the Sacred Words of our diverse faith traditions, we New York City faith leaders, along with the Micah Interfaith Coalition, choose spiritual light over darkness, love over hate, and unity within the human family over division.”
“As religious leaders who are seasoned veterans in the cause of waging peace and pursuing justice, we open our hearts and hands to all people. For every human being is created in the image of The Almighty God. Therefore, we commit ourselves to new opportunities of multi-faith prayer, worship, somber reflection on the sanctity of all life and to stand in support of those who are oppressed by religious hatred and bigotry. With respect to this evil we say not here, not now, not ever!
During this season of sacred observances, as we move from darkness to a new light, we call upon The Creator of Life to empower us with empathy, compassion, and love for each other, and the courage to walk the middle path between extremes.
Please share and sign onto our statement to promote a renewed commitment for healing and consolation in these critical times.
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