moving from exclusion to inclusion
Respectful & Constructive Dialogue
We affirm
Our intention to respect equally the founders of all spiritual paths, understand their messages, and enrich our lives accordingly. Each founder we have studied together so far also had something complementary and unique to offer. For example, from Zoroaster, we learn of the Spiritual Light; from Hinduism’s unnamed founder, the Eternal Being’s multiple manifestations; from Abraham, the Being’s unity; from Mahavira, pathway for purification of the soul; from Moses, the Ten Commandments; from Shakyamuni Buddha, meditation; from Confucius, living with piety; from Lao Zi, living in harmony with nature; from Jesus, love and forgiveness; from Muhammad, universality of the Being’s Message; from Guru Nanak, caste and gender equality; and from Baha’u’llah, equity and justice.
Our intention to seek out the founders of other spiritual paths not currently represented by our participants.
We aim
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To discover the common thread which runs through the teachings of all spiritual paths, including of indigenous cultures
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To respect religious reformers who came in more recent times to help guide humanity back onto the Path from which we got derailed by our own arrogance, ignorance, or closed-mindedness
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To understand the differing rituals various religions follow and marvel at this human ingenuity to try to reach the Being
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To rise above narrow-mindedness which divides us and embrace the principles which unite us. We cannot undo past injustices in the name of religion but can help prevent new ones
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To keep an open mind, visit houses of worship of various religions and try to feel the Divine Presence everywhere
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To enhance the experience of our respective path through this common exploration
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To spread the message of unity of religious ideals with love and understanding.