St. Joseph’s University, New York took center stage during UN Interfaith Harmony Week earlier this month, playing a pivotal role in hosting a panel dialogue aimed at exploring the significance of interfaith collaboration.
Partnering with the Tzu Chi Foundation, along with Chan Space New York and Global Family for Love and Peace, the University facilitated an engaging discussion on the intersection of various spiritual traditions.
Psychology professor Peter Lin, Ph.D., served as host of the panel, while Tom Petriano, Ph.D., professor and chair of the University’s religious studies department participated on the panel, which brought together a diverse range of speakers to delve into the virtues of religious practices and the potential for collaboration among different faiths.
Several St. Joseph’s students were also invited to participate in the discussion.
The event had about 40 attendees, many of whom actively engaged in the panel discussion. Dr. Petriano’s insights resonated strongly with the audience, highlighting the importance of understanding and appreciating different religious beliefs.
Click below to watch the event.
“Engaging with the welcoming individuals at Tzu Chi and gaining insights from the diverse panel, where representatives from Buddhism, Christianity and Judaism shared the common thread acts of service, was profoundly meaningful for me,” SJNY student Caroline Cartagena said. “Having been raised with Catholic/Lutheran school values in a Pentecostal home/church, my journey also involved falling in love with Buddhism while deepening my connection through yoga.
“Discovering the concept of interfaith was eye-opening, and I appreciate your role in this realization,” she added.
Following the panel discussion, attendees transitioned to a serene setting for tea and sitting meditation. The gathering concluded with light vegetarian meals, music performances, and closing prayers, underscoring the spirit of unity and collaboration that defined the event.
