Interfaith Space

Interfaith Space Calendar for December 2011

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 01:12:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-12.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>December 2011 </h1> <blockquote> <img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/wihw-logo.gif" width="330" height="89"> World Interfaith Harmony Week is the first week of February. The World Interfaith Harmony Week arose out of the work of the <a href="http://www.acommonword.com/">Common Word initiative</a>. On October 20, 2010, after being proposed by King Abdullah II of Jordan, it was unanimously adopted by the UN and henceforth the first week of February will be observed as a World Interfaith Harmony Week. Plans are already underway for the second celebration February , and sponsors are now inviting groups and individuals who are planning events to observe the week to post them at <a href="http://worldinterfaithharmony.com" target="_blank">worldinterfaithharmony.com</a>. You can also find resources and background materials on the site. - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>December Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>5 Ashura (Muslim) </li> <li>6 Maunajiyaras (Jain) </li> <li>6 St. Nicholas Day (Christian) </li> <li>8 Bodhi Day (Rohatsu) (Buddhist) </li> <li>8 Immaculate Conception (Roman Catholic) </li> <li>9 Maternity of St. Anne (Eastern Christian) </li> <li>10 Birthday of John Murray (Unitarian Universalist) </li> <li>12 Feast day - Our Lady of Guadalupe (Roman Catholic) </li> <li>16 Posadas (through 25th) (Roman Catholic- Latino)</li> <li>17 Birthday of Thomas Starr King (Unitarian Universalist) </li> <li>21 Hanukkah begins (8 days) (Jewish) </li> <li>22 Winter Solstice (Unitarian Universalist) </li> <li>22 Yule, Alban Arthuan, Jol (Winter Solstice) (Wiccan/ Pagan) </li> <li>22 Tohji-taisai (Solstice) (Shinto</li> <li>25 Christmas (Christian, Latter Day Saints, Unitarian Universalist) </li> <li>25 Feast of the Nativity (Eastern Christian) </li> <li>26 Kwanzaa (through January 1) (Interfaith) </li> <li>26 St Stephen's Day (Roman Catholic, some Protestant) </li> <li>26 Zarathosht Diso (Death of Prophet Zarathushtra) (Zoroastrian) </li> <li>27 St Stephen's Day (Eastern Christian) </li> <li>28 Holy Innocents (Roman Catholic, some Protestant) </li> <li>31 Ghambar Maidyarem (through Jan 4) (Zoroastrian) </li> <li>31 Watch Night (Christian) </li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2011 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2><a name="events"></a>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3>   <a name="if1201"></a>December 1-4, 2011, Santa Clara <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1201">6th Annual International Conference Engaging the Other: The Power of Compassion</a> At a time when polarization is the culprit, a multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary conference addressing the roots of fear-based belief systems, negative stereotypes, prejudice, polarization, scapegoating, enemy images, and artificial barriers of misunderstanding and distrust that divide us. <a name="if1211"></a>Sunday, December 11, 2011, 4:00 - 9:00 pm, Newark <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1211">American Muslim Voice 2011 Peace Convention: Awakening the American Spirit: Turning the Tide of Hate into Love </a> Featured speakers: Imam Zaid Shakir, Rais Bhuiyan, and Rev. Ellen Grace O'Brian. Also including a Conversation with Muslim Scholars and a Civil Rights Panel Discussion. <a name="if0115"></a>Sunday January 15, 2012, 1:45 to 4:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0115">Women's Interfaith Dialogue: Women as Spiritual leaders across our traditions</a> The intention of this group for women is to learn deeply from each other's practices and cultures in personal and meaningful ways.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>Meet Your Neighbors </h3> Public events sponsored by specific religious groups that may help others understand their tradition and concerns more fully. <a name="meet1011"></a>Beginning October 11, 2011, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet1011"> Islamic Science Rediscovered</a> Designed to unearth the scientific know-how of an Islamic Golden Age that is all too strange and unfamiliar to Western culture, Islamic Science Rediscovered demystifies this grand civilization and introduces visitors to the vast influence of its discoveries and inventions on contemporary society.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="action"></a>Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions. Saturday, December 10, 2011, 1:00 to 3:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act1210b">Walk for Human Rights</a> The “Youth for Human Rights” group that is newly formed for Silicon Valley will be holding its 2nd annual “Walk for Human Rights.” The purpose of “Youth for Human Rights” is to teach youth about human rights, specifically the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights Saturday, December 10, 2011 4:00 - 6:00 pm, Campbell <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act1210"> Amanda Network Anti-Bullying: 3rd Annual Candlelight Vigil </a> We represent a growing network of concerned people of faith and citizens. We intend to stop bullying, cyber bullying and other forms of violence against our kids and teens. <a name="act0118"></a>January 18, 2012, 8:30 - 10:00 am, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0118">SAVE THE DATE: Faith Collaborative Kick-Off Meeting </a> A follow-up on the November meeting of religious communities interested in helping with re-entry of former prisoners. == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.

Interfaith Space Calendar for November 2011

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:29:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-11.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>November 2011 </h1> <blockquote> Another New Year's Day- on the 26th of this month Muslims will celebrate the first of Muharram, the beginning of the Muslim year 1433. It commemorates the migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 ce, and the founding of the first Islamic community. Each year San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed's Faith Leaders Recognition breakfast displays even more of the religious diversity of our community. I was delighted to see people at the gathering on October 27 from Buddhist, Jain, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, and other communities, as well as a wide spectrum of Christian pastors and leaders. Each year, the program focuses on some aspect of community involvement by faith communities, and this year Pastor Tony Williams issued a stirring call for religious communities to become involved in helping ex-offenders to reintegrate into society. He will be hosting a meeting on <a href="#act1117">November 17</a> for religious leaders who would like to help out. November is the month for Thanksgiving, and two long-standing interfaith gatherings are scheduled, one in <a href="#if1122">Los Gatos</a>, and one in <a href="#if1124">Saratoga</a>. If you are aware of other interfaith celebrations, please <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">drop me a note</a> so we can add them to the calendar. If you do not already receive mailings from SiVIC, the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council, I hope that you will go to their website and <a href="http://www.sivicouncil.org/newsletter.htm">sign up</a>. You and/or your congregation or community might also want to consider becoming and Affiliate of SiVIC. More information is available <a href="http://www.sivicouncil.org/affiliate.htm">from the website</a>, or contact SiVIC at <a href="mailto:info@sivicouncil.org">info@sivicouncil.org</a> - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>November Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>1 All Saints' Day (Western Christian) </li> <li>2 All Souls' Day (Roman Catholic, some Protestant) </li> <li>5 Day of Hajj/Waqf al Arafa (Muslim) </li> <li>6 Eid al Adha (Muslim) </li> <li>6 Kathina (Theravada) (Buddhist) </li> <li>10 Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (Sikh) </li> <li>10 Lokashah Jayanti (Birth of Lonka Saha) (Jain) </li> <li>11 Veterans Day (civil)</li> <li>12 Birth of Baha'u'llah (Baha'i) </li> <li>15 Death of Francis David (Unitarian Universalist) </li> <li>15 Nativity Fast begins (Eastern Christian- new calendar)</li> <li>20 Christ the King Sunday (Roman Catholic, some Protestant) </li> <li>24 Martyrdom Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (Sikh) </li> <li>24 Thanksgiving Day (Interfaith) </li> <li>26 Day of the Covenant (Baha'i) </li> <li>26 Muharram (Islamic New Year) (Muslim) </li> <li>27 Advent Sundays (Nov 27, Dec 4, 11, 18) (Western Christian) </li> <li>28 Nativity Fast begins (Eastern Christian- old calendar)</li> <li>30 St. Andrew's Day (Western Christian) </li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2010 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2><a name="events"></a>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3>   <a name="if1110"></a>Thursday, November 10, 2011, 1:30 - 3:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1110">Religious Leaders Forum: You & Thanksgiving: Promises & Perils</a> Thanksgiving Day has long been a time for interreligious gatherings of many kinds. What is lost and what is gained when we come together for shared (religious?) observances? <a name="if1110b"></a>Thursday, November 10, 2011, 6:45 - 8:30 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1110b">ING Interfaith Speakers Bureau Training</a> Intercultural understanding is vital to our world today – and you can help build it. We're looking for people involved in a faith community who want to learn how to speak for and about their faith on interfaith panels at schools, colleges, healthcare facilities, law enforcement agencies, and other venues. <a name="if1113"></a>Sunday, November 13, 2011, 1:45 to 4:00 pm, Milpitas <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1113">Women's Interfaith Dialogue: Compassion and Loving Kindness across traditions </a> We welcome all women for an interfaith discussion on Compassion and Loving Kindness across Traditions. <a name="if1122"></a>Tuesday, November 22, 2011, 7:30 pm, Los Gatos <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1122">Interfaith Thanksgiving Service </a> Join us for the annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service in Los Gatos. Rev. Jennifer Murdock of Los Gatos United Methodist Church will be preaching. <a name="if1124"></a>Thursday, November 24, 2011, 10:00 am, Saratoga <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1124">Interfaith Thanksgiving Service</a> The annual Thanksgiving service in Saratoga. <a name="if1201"></a>December 1-4, 2011, Santa Clara <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1201">6th Annual International Conference Engaging the Other: The Power of Compassion</a> At a time when polarization is the culprit, a multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary conference addressing the roots of fear-based belief systems, negative stereotypes, prejudice, polarization, scapegoating, enemy images, and artificial barriers of misunderstanding and distrust that divide us. <a name="if1211"></a>Sunday, December 11, 2011, 4:00 - 9:00 pm, Newark <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1211">American Muslim Voice 2011 Peace Convention: Awakening the American Spirit: Turning the Tide of Hate into Love </a> Featured speakers: Imam Zaid Shakir, Rais Bhuiyan, and Rev. Ellen Grace O'Brian. Also including a Conversation with Muslim Scholars and a Civil Rights Panel Discussion.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>Meet Your Neighbors </h3> Public events sponsored by specific religious groups that may help others understand their tradition and concerns more fully. <a name="meet1011"></a>Beginning October 11, 2011, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet1011"> Islamic Science Rediscovered</a> Designed to unearth the scientific know-how of an Islamic Golden Age that is all too strange and unfamiliar to Western culture, Islamic Science Rediscovered demystifies this grand civilization and introduces visitors to the vast influence of its discoveries and inventions on contemporary society. <a name="meet1113"></a>Sunday, November 13, 2011, 2:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet1113">Stereotyping Muslims, Myths and the Media </a> Panel discussion, moderated by Angie Coiro, Wajahat Ali, local playwright, lawyer and humorist is joined by Aman Ali and Bassam Tariq, authors of 30 Mosques in 30 Days.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="action"></a>Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions. <a name="act1105"></a>Saturday, November 5, 2011, 10:00 am - 1:30 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act1105">Community Action Poverty Simulation</a> The Poverty Simulation is an awareness tool for participants to experience what it is like to live in poverty for a month (4 weeks, 15 minutes real-time each week), and has been facilitated with middle, high school and college students, faith communities, civic leaders, service organizations, and many others. <a name="act1109"></a>Wednesday, November 9, 2011, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act1109">Immigration Issues: Lunch Gathering for Religious Leaders and Pastoral Staff </a> Guests: San Jose Police Chief Chris Moore, District Attorney Jeff Rosen. <a name="act1113"></a>Sunday, November 13, 2011, 10 am - 2:00 pm, Sunnyvale <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act1113">Green Action Day </a> To protect our environment, reduce energy consumption, and promote a green, eco-friendly living, the Zen Center of Sunnyvale invites you to an educational and practical "Green Action Day." <a name="act1117"></a>Thursday, November 17, 2011, 8:00 - 10:00 am, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act1117">Faith Community Forum: Working with ex-offenders </a> Come listen to and share ideas on ways that Santa Clara County and the Faith Communities can work together to better serve ex-offenders reintegrating back into our community. == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.

Interfaith Space Calendar for October 2011

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 01:17:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-10.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>October 2011 </h1> <blockquote> L'shana tova! (Happy New Year) to our Jewish friends, who mark the new year with Rosh Hashana and enter the High Holy Days or Days of Awe in preparation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement on the evening of October 8th. And likewise to the Hindu, Jain, and Sikh communities who will mark the turning of the year with the Festival of Lights, Diwali. Jains also celebrate their founder Lord Mahavira's entry into enlightenment on that day. Two communities celebrate their sacred texts this month: Simchat Torah ("Rejoicing with the Torah"), marks in Jewish communities the end of the yearly cycle of readings from the Torah. Often the scrolls are processed around the synagogue with dancing and singing. For Sikhs, the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib commemorates how the sacred scruptures (Adi Granth) were named as the ongoing teacher (Guru) for the Sikh tradition. Congratulations to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for their successful blood drive. As part of their nationwide "Muslims for Life" campaign, they were able to collect over 11,000 units of blood, surpassing their goal of 10,000 units. Many people turned out for the various events marking the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 across the valley. On the web, you can find videos of the <a href="http://vimeopro.com/islamicnetworksgroup/commemoration-of-10th-anniversary-of-91101" target="_blank">Transforming Community</a> event in Saratoga, a story and pictures about the <a href="http://www.amuslimvoice.org/html/body_9-11-2011_report-1.html" target="_blank">Friendship Dinner and Candlelight Vigil</a> at the Muslim Community Association, and a description of the <a href="http://cnumc.org/news/detail/2874" target="_blank">Annual 9/11 Dinner</a> sponsored by the Campbell United Methodist Church and the Pacifica Institute. You can also find <a href="http://www.sivicouncil.org/events/cumc_2011.htm" target="_blank">pictures</a> of the event. As I remarked during the closing prayers and reflections in Campbell that evening, I am proud to be part of a community in which there is so much respect and willingness to reach out and build bridges of understanding and connection. - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>October Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>2 World Communion Sunday (some Protestant) </li> <li>4 St Francis Day (western Christian) </li> <li>5 Waqf al Arafa - Hajj Day (Muslim) </li> <li>6 Dasara/ Dussehra (Hindu) </li> <li>7 International Association of Scientologists Day (Scientologist) </li> <li>8 Yom Kippur (Jewish) </li> <li>12 Ghambar Ayathrem (through October 16) (Zoroastrian) </li> <li>13 Sukkot (through Oct 19) (Jewish) </li> <li>20 Birth of the Bab (Baha'i) </li> <li>20 Guru Granth Sahib installation (Sikh) </li> <li>20 Shemini Atzeret (Jewish) </li> <li>21 Simhat Torah (Jewish) </li> <li>24 United Nations Day (International)</li> <li>26 Diwali (Deepawali) (Hindu, Jain, Sikh) </li> <li>26 Mahavira Nirvana Celebration (Jain) </li> <li>27 Death of Michael Servetus (Miguel Serveto and Conesa) (Unitarian Universalist) </li> <li>27 Jain New Year (Vir Samvat 5) (Jain) </li> <li>28 Milvian Bridge Day (western Christian) </li> <li>31 All Hallows Eve (western Christian) </li> <li>31 Jnana Panchmi (Day of Knowledge) (Jain) </li> <li>31 Reformation Day (Protestant) </li> <li>31 Samhuinn (Samhain) , Vetrnaetr / Winter Nights (Wiccan/ Pagan) </li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2010 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2><a name="events"></a>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3>   <a name="if1002"></a>Sunday October 2, 2011, various locations <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1002">National Invite your Neighbors to Dinner Day</a> American Muslim Voice Foundation along with our peace partners will host our inaugural "National Invite your Neighbors to Dinner Day." Sunday, October 16, 2011, 1:00 - 4:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1016">Religion and Spirituality</a> Join us for a pot-luck lunch at 1:00 pm, followed by a brief talk from representatives of the Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu and Religious Science communities. Thursday, October 27, 2011, 8:00 - 9:30 am, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1027">Faith Leaders Appreciation Breakfast</a> An Interfaith Celebration of Community Service. Mayor Chuck Reed cordially invites religious leaders from San Jose to the fifth annual Faith Leaders Appreciation Breakfast. Thursday, November 10, 2011, 1:30 - 3:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1110">Religious Leaders Forum</a> Clergy or designated religious leaders of all traditions are welcome to participate in this ongoing series of dialogues. Our gatherings will include input on issues of concern across religious and neighborhood communities.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>Meet Your Neighbors </h3> Public events sponsored by specific religious groups that may help others understand their tradition and concerns more fully. Send your events to: <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="action"></a>Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions. Send your events to: <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>     == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.

Interfaith Space Calendar for September 2011

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 19:36:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-09.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>September 2011 </h1> <blockquote> In a couple of weeks, the nation will be marking the 10th anniversary of the attacks that took place on September 11, 2001. One of the things that has come out of that tragic experience has been a flowering of interfaith conversation and cooperation. It was for many a startling notice that their neighborhoods and communities had changed, and with increasing diversity came a larger need for finding ways not only to tolerate one another, but to discover how to work together for the good of all. Rev. Susan Strouse, the Interim Director of the Interfaith Center at the Presidio, has an <a href="http://www.patheos.com/Resources/Additional-Resources/Interfaith-Strides-Moving-Forward-Together-Since-9-11-Susan-Strouse-08-19-2011?offset=0&max=1" target="_blank">article on the website Patheos</a> about how the flourishing of interfaith work is in evidence around the Bay Area (She particularly notes the creation of the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council this past year.) We hope that you will attend one of the events planned to bring together people of different religious traditions not only to remember what can happen when we are divided from one another, but to dream of what we can accomplish together. Local events are listed <a href="#events">below</a>, and a larger list of gatherings throughout the Bay Area can be found on the calendar at the <a href="http://www.interspirit.net/icpnewsevents.cfm" target="_blank">Interfaith Center at the Presidio</a>. - - - The Interfaith Observer. How does one make sense of the 'interfaith culture' emerging in our midst? In this vast arena, how do we get a sense of the whole? <a href="http://theinterfaithobserver.org/" target="_blank">The Interfaith Observer</a>, a new e-journal, will focus each month's issue around a particular subject. The first issue, to be posted September 15, 2011, explores Deepening Interfaith Dialogue. The journal was developed by the Rev. Paul Chaffee, who retired as the Founding Director of the <a href="http://www.interfaith-presidio.org" target="_blank">Interfaith Center at the Presidio</a> this year. The Rev. D. Andrew Kille, Director of InterfaithSpace and Chair of the <a href="http://www.sivicouncil.org" target="_blank">Silicon Valley Interreligious Council </a>is one of the team of over sixty Advisor/Contributors for the Observer. To subscribe, go to <a href="http://www.interfaithobserver.org" target="_blank">www.interfaitho bserver.org</a> and fill out the subscription form. It's free! - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>September Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>1 Ganesha Chaturthi (Hindu) </li> <li>1 Installation of Guru Granth Sahib (First Parkash) (Sikh) </li> <li>1 Orthodox Church new year (eastern Christian) </li> <li>2 Paryushana Parva begins (to Sept 11) (Jain) </li> <li>8 Nativity of Mary (Western Christian) </li> <li>9 Auditors' Day (Scientologist) </li> <li>10 Paryushana Parva end (Samvatsari) (Jain) </li> <li>12 Ghambar Paitishahem (through Sep 16) (Zoroastrian) </li> <li>14 Exaltation of the Life Giving Cross (eastern Christian) </li> <li>14 Holy Cross Day (Western Christian) </li> <li>22 Death of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (Sikh) </li> <li>23 Fall Ohigon (Buddhist) </li> <li>23 Mabon, Alban Elued, Haustblot / Harvest (Autumnal Equinox) (Wiccan/ Pagan) </li> <li>23 Shuki-sorei-sai (Shinto) </li> <li>27 Meskel (Ethiopian Orthodox Christian) </li> <li>28 Navaratri (Nine Nights) (Hindu) </li> <li>28 Vijaya Dashami (Hindu) </li> <li>29 Rosh Hashana (through October 7) (Jewish) </li> <li>29 St. Michael and All Angels (Western Christian) </li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2010 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2><a name="events"></a>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3>   <a name="if0907"></a>Wednesday, September 7, 2011, 6:30 – 9:00 pm, Saratoga <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0907">9/11 Observance- Moving Forward: Transformation through Community Engagement</a> The event will both memorialize the victims and honor those who sacrificed their lives trying to save others on that tragic day, as well as discussing how community engagement can be a positive transformative force. It will include a screening of LoveHateLove (<a href="http://www.lovehatelovemovie.com" target="_blank">www.lovehatelovemovie.com</a>), a documentary that traces the difficult journeys of three families torn apart by terrorism, and the lasting legacies they created in an effort to ensure that love triumphs over hatred. <a name="if0908"></a>Thursday, September 8, 2011, 1:30 - 3:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0908">SiVIC Interreligious Leaders Forum</a> The interreligious gatherings for clergy and other religious leaders will resume with a session focusing on "Forgiveness." <a name="if0911rwc" id="if0911rwc"></a>Sunday, September 11, 2011, 5:46 am - 3:00 pm, Redwood City <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0911rwc">September 11 - A 10th Anniversary Day of Remembrance </a> This Day of Remembrance will begin at 5:46 am and conclude at 3:00 pm with a gathering, so individuals can mark the anniversary of this day personally and collectively. <a name="if0911sta"></a>Sunday, September 11, 2011, 1:30 pm, Stanford Memorial Church <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0911sta">A Musical Tribute on the Tenth Anniversary of 9/11 </a> The peninsula choral community, led by Schola Cantorum in partnership with the Stanford Office for Religious Life and Stanford Department of Music, will pay homage to those who lost their lives and those who gave aid in this national tragedy. <a name="if0911scl" id="if0911scl"></a>Sunday, September 11, 2011, 4:30 - 8:30 pm, Santa Clara <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0911scl">From Fear to Friendship: Light the Night for Peace and Friendship</a> Speakers include: Rev. James Lawson (called "the leading nonviolence theorist in the world" by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.), Imam Alaeddin Elbakri, Supervisor Dave Cortese, Imam Faheem Shuaibe, Assemblyman Jim Beall, Imam Tahir Anwar <a name="if0911pa" id="if0911pa"></a>Sunday September 11, 2001, 8:00 pm, Palo Alto <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0911pa">Pathways to Peace</a> Interfaith Community Gathering with music, prayers, and candlelight vigil. <a name="elevenways"></a>September 11- 21, 2011, worldwide <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#elevenways">11 Ways in 11 Days</a> Since 2004, the days between September 11th and the International Day of Peace on September 21 have been known as the 11 Days of Global Unity. This year, the 11 Days, 11 Wayscampaign invites groups around the world to create events that celebrate one or more of the key values: Unity, Interdependence, Environment, Economic Justice, Health, Children & Youth, Women, Human Rights, Freedom, Disarmament, and The International Day of Peace. Sponsors include <a href="http://we.net" target="_blank">We, The World</a>; <a href="http://www.uri.org" target="_blank">United Religions Initiative</a> in North America; <a href="http://pathwaystopeace.org/" target="_blank">Pathways To Peace</a>; and the <a href="http://www.worldpeace.org/" target="_blank">World Peace Prayer Society</a>. See <a href="http://we.net" target="_blank">we.net </a>for details. <a name="if1002"></a>Sunday October 2, 2011, various locations <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if1002">National Invite your Neighbors to Dinner Day</a> American Muslim Voice Foundation along with our peace partners will host our inaugural "National Invite your Neighbors to Dinner Day."   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>Meet Your Neighbors </h3> Public events sponsored by specific religious groups that may help others understand their tradition and concerns more fully. Send your events to: <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="action"></a>Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions. Send your events to: <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> <a name="act0904"></a>Sunday, September 4, 2011, Milpitas <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0904">Muslims for Life Blood Drive</a> On the ten year anniversary of 9/11, in remembrance of the lives lost on that day, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA has launched a nationwide "Muslims for Life" to collect 10,000 units of blood. <a name="act0912"></a>Monday, Sept. 12 3:00-7:00 pm, Saratoga <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0912">Blood Drive</a> Location: Congregation Beth David, 19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga <a name="act0917"></a>Saturday, September 17, 2011 9am-10:30am <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0917">Walk for Our Local Youth </a> Walk from Jubilee Community Center to the Alviso Marina - Alviso / North San Jose Why: Raise funds for your favorite non-profit, join with your community to support our local youth, build community by participating. <a name="act0928"></a>Wednesday, September 28, 2011, 6:00 - 8:30pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0928">Community Meeting and Free Screening of Bullied</a> A Community Forum on Bullying. Youth of ALL ages are welcome! Please bring your parents, family, and friends! The presenters will explore tools to manage bullying after they show a free screening of Bullied. Join them to view and discuss this insightful video. == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.

Interfaith Space- Ramadan Open Houses and 9/11 Events

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:12:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-08b.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>Mid-August 2011 </h1> <blockquote> This note comes your way to update two important sets of opportunities coming up in the next few weeks. As you know, we are currently in the month of Ramadan, and several local Muslim communities have opened their doors to friends and neighbors for iftar (breaking the fast) dinners. You'll find several listed below. Also, the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 is fast approaching, and several events are being planned to remember and to honor the interfaith connections that have been developed since that day, while discovering ways to strenghten those relationships into the future. Don't forget to check the <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm" target="_blank">Interfaith Space calendar</a> for more events. - - - </blockquote> <h2>Ramadan Open Houses</h2> For more information on Ramadan events, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#neighbors" target="_blank">here</a>. <a name="meet0813"></a>Saturday, August 13, 2011, 6:30 pm, Santa Clara Muslim Community Association Dinner is free, but reservations are required. Info: 408-986-9874. Free event, but reservations are required. RSVP to <a href="mailto:openhouse@mcabayarea.org">openhouse@mcabayarea.org</a>. Location: Muslim Community Association, 3003 Scott Blvd., Santa Clara. Islamic Society of the East Bay 33330 Peace Terrace, Fremont RSVP: <a href="mailto:ramadan2011@iseb.org">ramadan2011@iseb.org</a> Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California 1433 Madison Street, Oakland RSVP: <a href="mailto:rohani@iccnc.org">rohani@iccnc.org</a> Saturday, August 13, 2011, 7:15 pm, Burlingame     Saturday, August 20, 2011, 7:15 pm Pacifica Institute, Burlingame Admission & Parking is free. RSVP kindly requested via e-mail : <a href="mailto:pacificasf@pacificainstitute.org">pacificasf@pacificainstitute.org</a> Location: Burlingame Office, 1310 Bayshore Hyw, Suite 11&12 Burlingame. Sunday August 14th 2011, 6:00 - 9:00 pm, Palo Alto American Muslim Voice We would like the pleasure of your company for an Iftar dinner at Samina Sundas's home. Information and RSVP: Phone: 650-387-1994 <a href="mailto:saminasundas@yahoo.com">saminasundas@yahoo.com</a> Location: 120 Park Ave, Palo Alto <a name="meet0820"></a>Saturday, August 20, 2011, 8:00 pm, Milpitas Ahmadiyya Muslim Community We will open the fast with juice/water and dates, followed by evening prayers, and dinner. RSVP to <a href="mailto:sabuhi7@hotmail.com">Sabuhi Siddique</a> by August 18th. Location: Baetul Baseer Mosque, 926 Evans Road, Milpitas. <a name="meet0821"></a>Sunday, August 21, 2011, 8:00 pm, San Jose South Bay Islamic Association The SBIA Annual Ramadan Open House, which is open to the greater community, is an outreach effort designed to enhance understanding of Islam and to help Americans of all faiths meet their Muslim neighbors. Registration will begin at 7:15 pm, and the program will begin promptly at 8:00 pm. Please RSVP to CAIR-SFBA by calling 408.986.9874 or by E-mail to <a href="mailto:ncalv1@cair.com">ncalv1@cair.com</a>. Location: South Bay Islamic Association 325 North 3rd St. San Jose Islamic Society of San Francisco 20 Jones Street, San Francisco RSVP: <a href="mailto:issf@att.net">issf@att.net</a> Sunday, August 28, 2011, San Jose Shia Associaton of the Bay Area Location: Shia Association of the Bay Area, 4415 Fortran Court, San Jose. RSVP: <a href="mailto:saba@saba-igc.org">saba@saba-igc.org</a>   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>9/11 Observances</h3> Wednesday, September 7, 2011, 6:30 – 9:00 pm, Location TBA 9/11 Observance: Moving Forward: Transformation through Community Engagement This event will commemorate the security forces that sacrificed themselves during this national tragedy, as well as discussing how community engagement can be a positive transformative force. It will include a screening of LOVEHATELOVE (<a href="http://www.lovehatelovemovie.com" target="_blank">www.lovehatelovemovie.com</a>), a documentary that traces the difficult journeys of three families torn apart by terrorism, and the lasting legacies they created in an effort to ensure that love triumphs over hatred. Keynote speakers will include leader from the Abrahamic religions, as well as key city government officials. Co-sponsored by JCC Silicon Valley and the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Jose. Sunday, September 11, 2011, 5:46 am - 3:00 pm September 11 - A 10th Anniversary Day of Remembrance This Day of Remembrance will begin at 5:46 AM as a delegation representing fire fighters, law enforcement, EMS, Red Cross, and clergy will join with all who wish to share in lighting a candle to designate a place for those who would like to come during the day for a moment of reflection, to leave a flower or other token. Individuals are invited to visit this space for reflection, to share personal words on a mural, and may leave a flower or token. Personal reflections can be sent by email and will be posted at the space. Please send emails to <a href="mailto:pcn@blueconnect.org">pcn@blueconnect.org</a> This Remembrance will conclude at 3:00 pm with a gathering, so individuals can mark the anniversary of this day personally and collectively. Location: Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway Street, Redwood City. <a name="if0911a"></a>Sunday, September 11, 2011, 4:30 - 8:30 pm, Santa Clara Light the Night for Peace and Friendship This will be an intimate program of dinner and dialog where guests will enjoy each other's company. The evening will include multi-faith prayers for peace and prosperity in our world, spiritually diverse speakers to share reflections of the past decades and lessons learned, as well as an invitation to bring your printed stories to promote healing. This portion of the evening will be followed by a sunset Muslim prayer. In our ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between all communities we will showcase children of the world to highlight the richness and diversity of our nation. We will renew our commitment to work toward creating a world we will be proud to leave behind for our future generations! Info: contact <a href="mailto:saminasundas@gmail.com">Samina Sundas</a>. Location: Muslim Community Association, 3003 Scott Blvd., Santa Clara. Sponsored by American Muslim Voice and the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council. <a name="if0911b"></a>Sunday September 11, 2001, 8:00 pm, Palo Alto Pathways to Peace Interfaith Community Gathering with music, prayers, and candlelight vigil. Watch for details. Location: Jewish Community Center of Palo Alto 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>

Interfaith Space Calendar for August 2011

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 19:09:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-08.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>August 2011 </h1> <blockquote> Ramadan Mubarak! (a blessed Ramadan) to all our Muslim friends, who begin the Ramadan fast today. During the month, they will be fasting from dawn to dusk, reading the Qur'an, and engaging in particular acts of charity. The traditional meal for breaking the fast, the iftar, begins with eating a date and drinking water, and then proceeds to a festive meal. It's customary to share the iftar with family and friends, and several local communities take advantage of this time to hold open houses for non-Muslims to meet the community and learn more about it. Several are listed in the calendar below. One of the ways local communities are preparing to observe the 10th anniversary of 9/11 is by holding blood drives. Congregation Beth David in Saratoga plans a drive on Monday, September 12. The Ahmadiyya Muslim community is setting up blood drives across the country. The local community, Baetul Baseer Mosque in Milpitas, is holding their drive on Sunday, September 4, and would be happy to help other communities arrange for similar blood drives. Contact Imam Mubasher Ahmad at <a href="mailto:mubahmad@aol.com">mubahmad@aol.com</a>. You can find additional information on blood drives on the <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#blood" target="_blank">Interfaith Space calendar</a>. And on the subject of 10th anniversaries, this year the <a href="http://www.peninsulaclergynetwork.org" target="_blank">Peninsula Clergy Network</a>, which covers San Mateo County and parts of northern Santa Clara County, is celebrating their 10th year. Rabbi Jay Miller is the Executive Director of this unique coalition of community and religious leaders. Congratulations! - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>August Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>1 Fast of Repose of Virgin Mary (through August 14) (Eastern Christian) </li> <li>1 Lammas or Lugnasadh (Wiccan/Pagan) </li> <li>1 Ramadan begins (through August 30) (Muslim) </li> <li>3 Dharma Day (Buddhist) </li> <li>6 Transfiguration of our Lord (Christian) </li> <li>7 International Forgiveness Day </li> <li>9 Tisha B'av (Jewish) </li> <li>13 Rakshabandhan (Hindu) </li> <li>13-15 Obon (Shinto) </li> <li>15 Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary (Catholic Christian) </li> <li>15 Dormition of the Theotokos (Eastern Christian) </li> <li>21 Janma Ashtami (Krishna Janmashtami) (Hindu) </li> <li>25 Lailat al Qadr (Muslim) </li> <li>26 Paryushana-parva (Jain) </li> <li>29 Ullambana (Buddhist) </li> <li>30 Eid al Fitr - Culmination of Ramadan (Muslim) </li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2010 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3> <a name="if0803"></a>Wednesday, August 3, 2011, 7:00 pm, Los Gatos <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0803">Be the Change You Wish to See - Gandhi- A Special Event with Dr. S.N. Subba Rao</a> A Gandhian legend speaking about compassion, dialogue, interfaith understanding and community service <a name="if0909"></a>Friday, September 9, 2011, 3:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0909">Film and Community Conversation: LOVEHATELOVE </a> In honor and memory of the 10th anniversary of 9/11 The office of Supervisor Dave Cortese together with the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council will be hosting a screening of LOVEHATELOVE. <a name="if0911a"></a>Sunday, September 11, 2011, 5:00 pm, Santa Clara <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0911a">Light the Night for Peace and Friendship</a> Dinner, program, and candlelight vigil. Watch for details. <a name="if0911b"></a>Sunday September 11, 2001, 8:00 pm, Palo Alto <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0911b">Pathways to Peace</a> Interfaith Community Gathering with music, prayers, and candlelight vigil. Watch for details. <a name="elevenways"></a>September 11- 21, 2011, worldwide <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#elevenways" target="_blank">11 Ways in 11 Days</a> The days between September 11th and the International Day of Peace on September 21 have been known as the 11 Days of Global Unity. The 11 Days, 11 Ways campaign invites groups around the world to create events that celebrate one or more of eleven key values.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>Meet Your Neighbors </h3> Public events sponsored by specific religious groups that may help others understand their tradition and concerns more fully. <a name="meet0810"></a>Wednesday, August 10, 2011, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT, online <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0810">Parliament Webinar Series: Lessons from the Egyptian Revolution</a> Ahmed Rehab, who participated in the Tahrir Square movement, shares his first-hand account. Saturday, August 13, 2011, 6:30 pm <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0813">Ramadan Open House</a> MCA welcomes you for an open house and iftar dinner. Dinner is free, but reservations are required. <a name="meet0820"></a>Saturday, August 20, 2011, 8:00 pm, Milpitas <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0820">Ramadhan Dinner</a> Members of the community are cordially invited to a Ramadhan Dinner. We will open the fast with juice/water and dates, followed by evening prayers, and dinner. <a name="meet0821"></a>Sunday, August 21, 2011, 8:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0821">Annual Ramadan Open House </a> The SBIA Annual Ramadan Open House, which is open to the greater community, is an outreach effort designed to enhance understanding of Islam and to help Americans of all faiths meet their Muslim neighbors.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="action"></a>Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions. Send your events to: <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> <a name="act0807"></a>Sunday, August 7, 2011, 6:30 pm, Sunnyvale <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0807">BUDRUS: A Palestinian Village Unites in Nonviolent Resistance </a> BUDRUS is an award winning documentary about a Palestinian community organizer who unites local Fatah and Hamas members along with Israeli supporters in an unarmed movement to save his village from destruction. <a name="act0904"></a>Sunday, September 4, 2011 <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0904">Blood Drive </a> Location: Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Baetul Baseer Mosque, 926 Evans Road, Milpitas <a name="act0912"></a>Monday, Sept. 12 3:00-7:00 pm <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0912">Blood Drive</a> Location: Congregation Beth David, 19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga <a name="act0917"></a>Saturday, September 17, 2011 9am-10:30am <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0917">Walk for Our Local Youth </a> Walk from Jubilee Community Center to the Alviso Marina - Alviso / North San Jose Why: Raise funds for your favorite non-profit, join with your community to support our local youth, build community by participating. == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.

Interfaith SpaceCalendar for July 2011

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:09:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-07.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>July 2011 </h1> <blockquote> Lazy, hazy days of Summer! Maybe it's just that I haven't been hearing about upcoming events, but the inbox at <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> has been low on local events lately. Farewell to Rev. Rebecca Kuiken. Rebecca, the director of the Interfaith Council on Economics and Justice for the past three years is departing to pastor a church in France. She has been a familiar presence at interfaith gatherings in the Valley, and a strong advocate for workers' rights and economic justice. We're sorry to see her go, but know that she'll enjoy her ministry abroad! The interim director of the ICEJ program will be Elisa Koff-Ginsborg, associate director for community education of Working Partnerships USA, and a member of Congregation Shir Hadash. SAN JOSE OBON FESTIVAL. Each year I look forward to the Obon celebration at the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin. This year, the Japanese Buddhist observance to honor the ancestors, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, July 9-10. It features food, games, introductions to Buddhism, communal dancing and taiko drum performances from groups including Stanford and San Jose Taiko. An event calendar is available at the <a href="http://www.sjbetsuin.com/Events/Obon2011" target="_blank">Buddhist Temple </a>website. Location: San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, 640 North 5th Street San Jose (between Jackson and Taylor). A MORE PERFECT UNION. Prepare NY, the coalition of organizations preparing the community for the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, has produced a video titled "We the People" which traces the history of religious conflict and affirmation in the United States. It's well worth a look at the <a href="http://prepareny.ning.com/forum/topics/we-the-people" target="_blank">Prepare NY website</a>, and you're invited to share your comments in the ongoing forum discussion. - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>July Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>1 Sacred Heart of Jesus (Roman Catholic) </li> <li>4 Independence Day (Civil)</li> <li>6 Dalai Lama's Birthday (Buddhist) </li> <li>9 Martyrdom of the Bab (Baha'i) </li> <li>11 St Benedict Day (Roman Catholic) </li> <li>12 Birthday of Henry David Thoreau (Unitarian Universalist) </li> <li>13 Obon (Ullambana)(through July 16) (Buddhist, Shinto) </li> <li>15 Nisf Sha`ban/ Lailat al Bara'ah (Night of Repentance) (Muslim) </li> <li>15 Asalha Puja Day (Buddhist) </li> <li>15 Guru Purnima (Hindu) </li> <li>15 Wassana (beginning of Rains Retreat) (Buddhist) </li> <li>19 Fast of the Seventeenth of Tammuz (Jewish) </li> <li>24 Pioneer Day (Latter Day Saints) </li> <li>25 St. James the Great Day (Roman Catholic, some Protestant) </li> <li>30 O-harai-taisai (Shinto) </li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2010 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3>   <a name="elevenways"></a>September 11- 21, 2011, worldwide <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#elevenways" target="_blank">11 Ways in 11 Days</a> The days between September 11th and the International Day of Peace on September 21 have been known as the 11 Days of Global Unity. The 11 Days, 11 Ways campaign invites groups around the world to create events that celebrate one or more of eleven key values.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>Meet Your Neighbors </h3> Public events sponsored by specific religious groups that may help others understand their tradition and concerns more fully. Saturday and Sunday, July 9-10, 2011, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#elevenways">San Jose Buddhist Temple Obon Celebration</a> This annual celebration of Obon, the Japanese Buddhist observance to honor ancestors, has been a must for people in San Jose for many years. It features food, games, introductions to Buddhism, communal dancing and taiko drum performances from groups including Stanford and San Jose Taiko.   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="action"></a>Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions. Send your events to: <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>   == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.

Interfaith Space Interfaith Calendar for Late June 2011

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 17:44:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-06-25.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>Late June 2011 </h1> <blockquote> A couple of events of interest coming up before the end of June may be of interest to you and your community: Sunday, June 26, 2011, 1:30 pm, Saratoga Age Is Just a Number! Become Educated on Aging, Services and Caring for Ourselves & Others. Golda Meir: "Old age is like a plane flying through a storm. Once you're aboard, there's nothing you can do." …or is there? The community is cordially invited to a short film and stimulating panel discussion as experts talk about: <ul> <li>The science of aging in the 21st century </li> <li>Extending the quality of life through exercise, diet, mental stimulation & community involvement </li> <li>Community services during tough financial times </li> <li>Where do we start: The urgency of caring for each other Psalm 71:9 "Cast me not off in the time of old age; when my strength faileth, forsake me not." </li> </ul> This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served RSVP to <a href="mailto:notenyad@beth-david.org">notenyad@beth-david.org</a> or call 408-257-3333. Location: Congregation Beth David 19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga. If you need a ride to the event please let us know Sponsored by Noten Yad - Congregation Beth David and PACT - People Acting in Community Together. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/files/Aging_discussion_6-26-11.pdf">Download a flyer</a>. Thursday June 30, 2011 5:30 to 7:00 pm, San Jose Faith, Labor and Action: One Pastor's Story: A Good-bye Tribute to the Interfaith Council Rev. Rebecca Kuiken, director of the Interfaith Council on Economics and Justice, leaves WPUSA in July to become a pastor in the Reformed Church of France. For three years she has worked at the intersection of low-wage workers, communities of faith, labor unions, civic leaders and activists for economic and social justice. Rev. Kuiken will share reflections on how her failh supported this work and how her work impacted her faith. Please come to hear the stories , see some photos, enjoy bread and brie and say good-bye to Rev Rebecca Kulken. Location: First Unitarian Church 160, N. Third Street, San Jose. Parking a vailable at 94 N. Third; Space is limited . RSVP by June 28, 2011 to Elisa at 408-269-7872 or rsvp@wpuse.org. Event hosted by Working Partnerships USA Leadership Network, with the generous sponsorship of PG&E. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/files/rebecca_kuiken.pdf">Download a flyer</a>. Thursday, June 30, 2011, 5:30 pm, National National Conference Call: Public Perceptions on American Muslims The Muslim Public Affairs Council and Islamic Networks Group invite you to take part in a national conference call on "Public Perceptions of Muslim Americans: Opportunities and Challenges." The 90-minute teleconference will featured an overview of public opinion about Islam and Muslims in America today by the Public Religion Research Institute, followed by analysis by a trio of leading thinkers and practitioners in the Muslim American community. During the call, CEO and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute Robert Jones will present the findings of recent polling about public attitudes toward Islam and Muslims. New York Times best-selling author and media commentator Reza Aslan, ING President Maha Elgenaidi, and MPAC President Salam Al-Marayati will provide their reflections followed by a Q&A period with callers from around the country. The conference call marks the kick-off of MPAC's quarterly national conference calls on pressing public policy issues featuring subject experts, policy-makers and community leaders addressing community leaders and members around the country. Email <a href="mailto:rsvp@mpac.org?subject=Nat'l Conference Call"Nat'l Conference Call"">rsvp@mpac.org</a> with the subject line Nat'l Conference Call. Include: your full name, city and email address in the body of the email and you will receive a reply with the dial-in access information for the teleconference. - - - Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>     </blockquote>

Interfaith Space Interfaith Calendar for June 2011

Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-06.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>June 2011 </h1> <blockquote> Housing Needs and the Faith Community The need for housing in the South Bay is the focus of two events coming up early in June: <a href="http://www.housing1000sv.org/" target="_blank">Housing 1000</a> is the local manifestation of the national 100K Homes Campaign and is a partnership between <a href="http://www.destinationhomescc.org" target="_blank">Destination: Home</a> , the<a href="http://www.collabscc.org" target="_blank"> Santa Clara County Collaborative</a> on Affordable Housing and Homeless Issues and <a href="http://www.ctagroup.org" target="_blank">Community Technology Alliance</a>. Its goal is to permanently house 1,000 homeless individuals by 2013. Housing 1000 is dedicated to finding our most vulnerable and long-term homeless individuals and placing them in permanent housing with the services they need to stay housed. See below for details on an informational meeting on June 1st and a community survey the week of June 27. <a href="http://www.habitatsiliconvalley.org/" target="_blank">Habitat for Humanity Silicon Valley</a>, the local branch of the international organization that works with volunteers, the community, and families to build affordable homes, is sponsoring the building of an All Faiths House. This single-family home, to be built on land donated by the City of Cupertino is one of four new environmentally "green" homes to be built by Habitat volunteers. The project will involve volunteers from different faith groups, working side by side to improve the community. An informational dinner will be held June 4. - - - Local Religious Leader. Here and there at inter-religious events around the Valley, you may have had the opportunity to meet Imam Suhaib Webb. A convert to Islam, Imam Webb studied at Al-Azhar University in Egypt, and is now a respected teacher and scholar in our area, leading classes at the <a href="http://www.mcabayarea.org/" target="_blank">Muslim Community Association</a> in Santa Clara and on his own website, <a href="http://www.suhaibwebb.com/" target="_blank">www.suhaibwebb.com/</a>. Last week, Raja Abdulrahim of the Los Angeles Times did an article on Imam Webb and his work: <blockquote> Webb is at the forefront of a movement to create an American-style Islam, one that is true to the Koran and Islamic law but that reflects this country's customs and culture. Known for his laid-back style, he has helped promote the idea that Islam is open to a modern American interpretation. </blockquote> The full article, "<a href="http://www.latimes.com/news/local/religion/la-me-american-imam-20110527,0,437052,full.story" target="_blank">Imam teaches Islam with a distinct U.S. style</a>," is available online from the Los Angeles Times. Imam Webb was one of the speakers at this year's Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony; you can find his <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AOZFdYG1FI&feature=player_embedded" target="_blank">remarks on YouTube</a>. He will be giving the graduation address for the Abraham's Vision <a href="http://www.abrahamsvision.org/unity-program/unity-program/course-summary.html" target="_blank">Muslim and Jewish Unity Program</a> in June. - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>June Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>2 Ascension of Christ (Christian; Eastern Christian) </li> <li>6 Anniversary of Attack on Akal Takhat (Sikh) </li> <li>8 Shavuot (two days) (Jewish) </li> <li>9 Feast Day of St. Columba (Celtic Christian)</li> <li>12 Pentecost/Whitsunday (Christian; Eastern Christian) </li> <li>16 Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji (Sikh) </li> <li>19 All Saints (Eastern Christian) </li> <li>19 Juneteenth (Cultural- African American) </li> <li>19 New Church Day (Swedenborgian) </li> <li>19 Trinity Sunday (Western Christian) </li> <li>21 Litha, Alban Heruin, Midsumarsblot (Summer Solstice) (Wiccan/ Pagan) </li> <li>21 First Nations Day (Canada)</li> <li>23 Corpus Christi (Catholic Christian) </li> <li>24 Nativity of St. John the Baptist (Christian) </li> <li>28 Lailat al Miraj/ Isra Wa Miraj (Mohammed's Night Journey)(Muslim) </li> <li>29 Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul (Christian) </li> <li>29 Ghambar Maidyoshem (through July 3) (Zoroastrian) </li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2010 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3> <a name="faithshared"></a>Sunday, June 26, 2011, nationwide <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#faithshared" target="_blank">Faith Shared: Uniting in Prayer and Understanding</a> <a href="http://faithshared.org/" target="_blank">Faith Shared</a>, a project of the Interfaith Alliance and Human Rights First, asks houses of worship across the country to organize events involving clergy reading from each other's sacred texts. <a name="elevenways"></a>September 11- 21, 2011, worldwide <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#elevenways" target="_blank">11 Ways in 11 Days</a> The days between September 11th and the International Day of Peace on September 21 have been known as the 11 Days of Global Unity. The 11 Days, 11 Ways campaign invites groups around the world to create events that celebrate one or more of eleven key values. <a name="if0601"></a>Wednesday, June 1, 2011 7:00 pm, Stanford <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0601" target="_blank">Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori</a> Stanford's Office for Religious Life presents the Roger W. Heyns Lecture with Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori: "Beauty & Power, Truth & Good: A 21st Century Quest for the Real." <a name="if0605"></a>Sunday, June 5, 2011, 3:00 - 5:00 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0605" target="_blank">Lights on the Horizon: Music Event</a> The First Unitarian Church of San José cordially invites you to join us for an exquisite musical performance by the energizing Santa Cruz World Choir & Orchestra. <blockquote>  </blockquote> <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="neighbors"></a>Meet Your Neighbors </h3> Public events sponsored by specific religious groups that may help others understand their tradition and concerns more fully. Send your events to: <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>   <h3 class="verdanasectionlarge"><a name="action"></a>Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions. <a name="act0601"></a>Wednesday, June 1, 2011, 2:00 - 3:30 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0601" target="_blank">Housing 1000 Project: Informational Meeting</a> Housing 1000 is a local Campaign to house 1,000 of our chronically homeless neighbors by 2013. You are invited for a presentation and open dialogue to discuss the campaign, developing resources and why we see this as a critical community opportunity to focus together on ending chronic homelessness. <a name="act0604"></a>Saturday, June 4, 2011, 6:00 pm, Los Altos <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0604" target="_blank">All Faiths Alliance Dinner</a> A dinner for individuals and faith groups to find out how to get involved with the All Faiths House, a single-family home to be built by volunteers of different faith groups. <a name="act0627"></a>June 27, 28, and 29, 2011, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0627" target="_blank">HOUSING 1000: Registry Week</a> We ask for your help during Registry Week on June 27th, 28th, and 29th. Approximately 500 community members and civic leaders will go out before dawn on three consecutive days to survey & register homeless individuals, using a survey tool that is designed to identify and assess those chronically homeless persons who are the most vulnerable to an early death. == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.

Book Panel: I Speak for Myself

Tue, 17 May 2011 21:43:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-05-15.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>Mid-May 2011 </h1> <blockquote> <h3>Special Event:</h3> I Speak for Myself: American Women on Being Muslim Panel with Contributors Thursday, May 19, 2011 5:30 – 7:00 pm Nobili Hall Dining Room Santa Clara University I Speak for Myself is a collection of 40 personal essays written by American Muslim women under the age of 40, all of whom were born and raised in the US. It is a showcase of the true diversity found in American Islam. <blockquote> "This book is a window into how Islam is lived in America by some of its most dynamic, creative and inspiring leaders. The voices here are clear and compelling, compassionate and courageous. This is Big Tent Citizen Islam at its best – a community welcoming of its own internal diversity, and making important contributions to the broader society." Eboo Patel, Founder and President Interfaith Youth Core </blockquote> This panel features reflections from four of the contributors (see the <a href="http://www.ispeakformyself.com" target="_blank">book website</a> for further information): </blockquote> <ul> <li> Souheila Al-Jadda, a Peabody award-winning television producer and journalist on Link TV, who serves as a global expert with United Nations Alliance of Civilizations </li> <li> Jameelah Medina, included in Oprah Magazine's list of eighty women leaders of the future, she is the author of The Afro-Latin Diaspora: Awakening Ancestral Memory, Avoiding Cultural Amnesia (2004) </li> <li> Rabea Chaudhry, California-based artist (exhibits include the New Orleans Museum of African American Art), attorney, and associate editor for Altmuslimah </li> <li> May Alhassen, activist, research assistant for Columbia University's Malcom X Project, PhD student in American Studies and Ethnicity at USC </li> </ul> <blockquote> Followed by Q/A with the audience and a book signing. Sponsors include: Islamic Networks Group, the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council, the Religious Studies Department and Women's and Gender Studies Program at Santa Clara University, and the Silicon Valley Middle East Studies Consortium For information on the event, contact Duaa Elzeney, ING, at <a href="mailto:duaa@ing.org">duaa@ing.org</a>. For information on the venue, including requests for reasonable accommodations, contact Philip Boo Riley, Religious Studies, Santa Clara University, at <a href="mailto:priley@scu.edu">priley@scu.edu</a> or 408 554 2199. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/files/I_Speak_for_MyselfFlyer.pdf">Download a flyer</a>. - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>       </blockquote> <h2> </h2>

Interfaith Calendar for May 2011

Mon, 02 May 2011 04:33:00 GMT

If this message does not display correctly, click <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/mailings/11-05.htm">here</a>. <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/masthead.gif" alt="Interfaith Space: Interfaith Events" width="450" height="122" hspace="10" vspace="10" border="0"></a> <h1>May 2011 </h1> <blockquote> Thursday, May 5, 2011 is the National Day of Prayer, declared by the President, who is compelled by an act of Congress to do so. Over the years I've written several times about the Day, and my comments reflect my own ambivalence about the occasion and how it is observed. For many of us, prayer is a natural thing to do, and we often hold the nation and its people in our prayers. Many forms of worship for Christians include prayers for civil authorities and communities as a regular part of their worship. At the very least, a National Day of Prayer ought to reflect the diversity of religious commitments in this nation. Sadly, over the years its observance has been dominated not just by Christians, but by Christians of a conservative bent who use the day to advance their notion that we live in a "Christian" nation. I have suggested for many years that prayers that are offered by the community ought to include all who are part of that community. But what about those who do not pray, or who do not pray for governments or politicians? Are they not also part of our community? And do those of us who pray need to be reminded, encouraged, or enabled to pray by the President or Senators or Congresspeople? While I appreciate the need for prayer and the richness of our varied forms, I get troubled when political figures start setting dates and times. If you want to, take some time to pray on the National Day of Prayer. Or not. But I do hope that those prayers might include thanksgiving for the freedom we enjoy in this nation to pray or not to pray, appreciation for our neighbors and their own expressions of belief or non-belief, and a commitment to defend that religious liberty for all. - - - Meeting Space Available. Need a good space for a church on Sundays and Thursdays? (Meetings at other times can be arranged.) We should have a room for up to sixty people plus a small entry room in a nice school setting with an outdoor courtyard and easy parking. People can play on the fields or basketball courts after meetings. $500/month. Zoned legally for church use. Call Robert C. Arne, Headmaster, Valley International Academy <a href="http://www.valleyacademy.org" target="_blank">www.valleyacademy.org</a> 408-887-5108 - - - </blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/">News & Notes</a><a href="http://www.revdak.com/wordpress/"></a>, the occasional blog from Interfaith Space with information about events and commentary on interfaith/ multifaith/ interreligious issues, has received a face lift. Check out our new look at the Interfaith Space website: go to <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org">www.interfaithspace.org</a> and click on "News & Notes." We invite your comments or responses. </blockquote> <blockquote> <table width="500" border="1" align="left" cellpadding="7"> <tr> <td>Send your news! Let the community know about events that are open to the public and are either interfaith or offer an opportunity for others to learn about your faith community. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a>.</td> </tr> </table>         </blockquote> <h2>May Religious and Cultural Observances </h2> <ul> <li>1 Beltane or May Day   (Wiccan/ Pagan)</li> <li>1 Yom HaSho'ah (Holocaust Memorial Day)  (Jewish)</li> <li>2 Birth Guru Arjan Dev Ji  (Sikh)</li> <li>2 Twelfth Day of Ridvan  (Baha’i)</li> <li>4 Birthday of Horace Mann (Unitarian Universalist)</li> <li>5 Cinco de Mayo (Cultural)</li> <li>5 National Day of Prayer (Civil)</li> <li>6 Akshaya-tritiya (Holy Third) (Jain)</li> <li>9 Dianetics Day (Scientologist)</li> <li>17 Buddha Day - Visakha Puja   (Buddhist)</li> <li>17 Buddha's Birthday (Wesak in Theravada tradition) (Buddhist)</li> <li>22 Lag B'Omer (New Year for Trees) (Jewish)</li> <li>23 Birthday of Margaret Fuller (Unitarian Universalist)</li> <li>23 Birthday of Ralph Waldo Emerson (Unitarian Universalist)</li> <li>23 Declaration of the Bab  (Baha’i)</li> <li>29 Ascension of Baha'u'llah   (Baha’i)</li> <li>30 Memorial Day (Civil)</li> </ul> <blockquote> [Interreligious Calendar events are taken from the <a href="http://www.multifaithaction.org/" target="_blank">Multifaith Action Society</a> Multifath Calendar 2010 and other sources. See also the Online <a href="http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/" target="_blank">Interfaith Calendar </a>and the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/" target="_blank">BBC Interfaith Calendar</a>] NOTE: Jewish Holidays begin at sundown the day before. Buddhist holidays are observed on many different days, according to local tradition. </blockquote> <h2>Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities</h2> <blockquote> "Interfaith Opportunities" focuses on specifically interfaith events; "Take Action" offers opportunities to take action on issues of concern with people from other religious traditions, and "Meet Your Neighbors" includes events that are sponsored by a specific religious group but which are open to the wider community. Items for the calendar can be sent to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org">calendar@interfaithspace.org</a> </blockquote> Click on highlighted links below for more information- </h3> <a name="if0504"></a>Wednesday, May 4, 2011, 4:30 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0504" target="_blank">County of Santa Clara Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony</a> Helen Farkas will share stories of the moments of happenstance that led to her survival. Imam Suhaib Webb, a local Imam and one of eight Imams who visited Auschwitz last year, will speak about his experience bearing witness to the horror of the Holocaust. <a name="if0515"></a>Sunday May 15, 2011, 2:00 - 5:00 pm, Palo Alto <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#if0515" target="_blank">Beyond Tolerance Workshop</a> Explore how to recognize and moderate our own biases and prejudices about religious-based cultural uniqueness in a safe, facilitated environment. <h3>Meet Your Neighbors</h3> <a name="meet0505"></a>Thursday, May 5, 2011, 10 :00 am - 1 :00 pm, ONLINE <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0505" target="_blank">ING Webinar: Addressing Shariah Questions</a> This ING webinar will address Shariah questions in light of the "shariah creep" fears that are being propagated in the public arena across the country. <a name="meet0507"></a>Saturday, May 7, 2011, 12:00 noon - 5:30 pm, San Jose      Sunday, May 8, 2011, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, San Francisco <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0507" target="_blank">2011 Global Tzu Chi Celebration: Buddha Day, Mothers Day & Tzu Chi 45th Anniversary</a> Enjoy the profound Buddha Bathing ceremonies, along with special activities including an outdoor music festival, family activities, the veggie-and-green expo, and other exhibits presented by Tzu Chi volunteers. <a name="meet0508"></a>Sunday, May 8, 2011, 11:00 am, Sunnyvale <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0508" target="_blank">Buddha Birthday Celebration: Bathing the Buddha Ceremony</a> We cordially invite you, your family and friends to join our congregation in this blessed occasion and to dedicate the merits to peace and harmony in every part of the world. <a name="elias" id="elias"></a>Thursdays at 7:30 pm, San Jose <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#elias" target="_blank">Issues in Christian Unity</a> St. Elias Melkite church invites you to the 2010-2011 Faith Enrichment Series on Issues in Christian Unity. <ul> <li>May 19: Worship/Liturgy and the Morality of Daily Life Panel of Melkite Clergy</li> </ul> <a name="meet0521"></a>Saturday, May 21, 2011, 11:00 am, San Francisco <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#meet0521" target="_blank">6th International Dance and Food Festival</a> Children from different world cultures will present their dances. Turkish food will be on sale. Sponsored by <a href="http://www.pacificasv.org" target="_blank">Pacifica Institute</a>. <h3 class="style4">Take Action</h3> Events that address issues of public concern with an alliance of people from different religious traditions.   <a name="act0518"></a>Thursday, May 18, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Los Gatos <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0518" target="_blank">People of Faith: Our Unique Contribution in Justice Movements- ICEJ ANNUAL MEETING </a> The Rev. Alexia Salvatierra will be the featured speaker for the Annual Meeting of the Interfaith Council on Economics and Justice, speaking on: "People of Faith: Our Unique Contribution in Justice Movements." <a name="act0519"></a>Friday, May 19,2011, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, TBA <a href="http://www.interfaithspace.org/events.htm#act0519" target="_blank">Faith Rooted Organizing Workshop </a> Leaders: Rev. Alexia Salvatierra, Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice CLUE-CA and Rev. Rebecca Kuiken, Interfaith Council for Economics and Justice. == <h2>And more... </h2> Help us share your good news! If you know of interfaith opportunities that are coming up- please let us know so they can be included on the Interfaith Space Calendar. Send information to <a href="mailto:calendar@interfaithspace.org.">calendar@interfaithspace.org.</a>   <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.interfaithspace.org/images/Examiner-Badge.jpg" alt="Interfaith Examiner" hspace="7" align="left"></a>I have begun writing an occasional blog for Examiner.com, as their <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-19423-San-Jose-Interfaith-Examiner" target="_blank">San Jose Interfaith Examiner</a>. I'll be posting more extended articles there, and welcome your suggestions for events to publicize, interviews with interfaith leaders, and news about interfaith relationships.