14. November 2024
Three Religions in Dialogue
The Global Ethic Foundation hosted an interfaith dialogue bringing together Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Moderated by Büşra Çebi, this event created a space for dialogue and mutual understanding, where representatives from three faith communities shared their perspectives and reflected together on the role and power of faith in today’s society.
PLACES OF FAITH
Ravinder Salooja, a Protestant university chaplain, finds enrichment in encounters with other religions. He shared his experiences with “multiple belonging”—a sense of feeling at home in various spiritual settings. For him, contemplation on his faith itself serves as a sacred space that can lead to profound spiritual experiences.
Islamic theologian Tuncay Dinçkal expressed that religious spaces are not static; they can evolve throughout one’s life. For him, this transformation was seen in the shift from the grandeur of a mosque in Ankara to the local mosque just around the corner, which became his personal place of worship over time.
Claudia Marx-Rosenstein, director of the Abraham House and educator, shared her view that faith is often fostered in communal spaces—like a kitchen, where shared celebrations and the warmth of Jewish community come alive.
PERSONAL RELIGIOUS PRACTICE
Whether it’s Friday prayers, the Jewish Shabbat, or table blessings, consistently practicing religious rituals can sometimes be challenging. Both Tuncay Dinçkal and Ravinder Salooja acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining regular rituals and agreed that ritual prayers have the most value when recited mindfully, not merely repeated out of habit.
The panelists also discussed their individual approaches to nurturing a relationship with God. Claudia Marx-Rosenstein described her connection to God, which deepens through language and music, helping to “open the heart.” Tuncay Dinçkal quoted the Quran: “God is closer to me than my jugular vein,” a verse he finds comforting, symbolizing God’s intimate proximity. Claudia Marx-Rosenstein added that there are times in life when people seek God more urgently—and that, in turn, God also seeks people.
MEETING CHALLENGES
The conversation then expanded to discuss the challenges facing religions today. Tuncay Dinçkal shared his concern about radical acts that can undermine hard-won dialogue efforts. Despite these setbacks, he emphasized his unwavering belief in dialogue, which continually renews his hope.
The evening highlighted how enriching it is to view the world through others’ eyes while also reflecting on one’s own faith. Interfaith dialogue is more than an exchange of opinions—it is an invitation to self-reflection and a deeper understanding of each other.
Interfaith and society