Interfaith Encounters

In our multifaith and multicultural communities, we see that the skills and practice of interfaith and intercultural encounters are needed now more than ever. As Pope Francis said in his speech at the Global Conference of Human Fraternity: “There is no alternative: either we will build the future together or there will be no future. Religions in particular cannot renounce the urgent task of building bridges between peoples and cultures. The time has come when religions should more actively exert themselves, with courage and audacity, and without pretence, to help the human family deepen the capacity for reconciliation, the vision of hope, and the concrete paths of peace.”

What is the program?

The Interfaith Encounters program brings together students from different faith and cultural backgrounds and provides a space for inclusive, respectful, and mutual learning. It offers a hands-on opportunity for students to become champions for community harmony and inclusion.

The inter-school program:

• Creates connections between schools and community organisations to support them in proactively furthering harmony in their own communities

• Offers students access to a range of religious, spiritual, and ideological worldviews through face-to-face encounters

• Provides experiential learning opportunities that support students in critically analysing possible misunderstandings and distrust between people of different faiths, cultures, and ideologies, and furthermore, leads them to identify ways in which they can effectively respond and be active participants in building social cohesion.

Who is it for?

The program is aimed at senior secondary students (Years 10, 11, and 12) and offers an opportunity for schools to provide students with a practical component to their learning that may connect directly with their curriculum. It is designed to celebrate difference, deepen understanding of individual and social identity, and promote peace and social cohesion.