International Council of Christians and Jews Conference in Sydney: Fostering Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding

The International Council of Christians and Jews (ICCJ) recently held its annual conference in Sydney, Australia, bringing together religious leaders, scholars, and activists from around the world to discuss issues related to interfaith dialogue and cooperation. The conference, which took place from June 20-22, 2021, provided a platform for ccjaustralia.org participants to explore the challenges and opportunities facing religious communities in today’s increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

One of the key themes of the conference was the importance of fostering understanding and mutual respect between Christians and Jews in order to promote peace and reconciliation. The participants engaged in a series of workshops, panel discussions, and keynote addresses that highlighted the shared values and common goals of both faith traditions. They also reflected on the historical and theological foundations of Christian-Jewish relations and explored ways to overcome the legacy of mistrust and misunderstanding that has often characterized these interactions.

Another focus of the conference was the role of religious communities in addressing social justice issues and promoting human rights. Participants discussed the moral imperatives of advocating for the marginalized and oppressed, as well as the ethical responsibilities of religious leaders to speak out against injustice and discrimination. They also explored the ways in which faith-based organizations can collaborate to promote interfaith understanding and social cohesion in a world marked by conflict and division.

The conference also featured sessions on the impact of globalization and technology on religious communities, as well as the challenges posed by extremism and fundamentalism. Participants discussed the need for dialogue and cooperation among people of different faiths to counter the forces of intolerance and violence that threaten the fabric of society. They also explored the ways in which religious traditions can provide a framework for addressing contemporary issues such as climate change, migration, and economic inequality.

One of the highlights of the conference was a special session on the role of women in interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding. Participants heard from female religious leaders and activists who are working to promote gender equality and empower women in their communities. They also discussed the importance of including women’s voices in discussions about religion and social justice, and the ways in which women can contribute to building bridges of understanding and cooperation between different faith traditions.

Overall, the ICCJ conference in Sydney was a testament to the power of interfaith dialogue and collaboration in promoting peace, understanding, and solidarity among people of different faiths. By bringing together Christians and Jews from around the world to share their perspectives and experiences, the conference demonstrated the potential of religious communities to work together to address some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity today. As the participants returned to their homes and communities, they were inspired to continue their efforts to build a more just and harmonious world based on the values of compassion, respect, and reconciliation.