Forum - “What Do Our Neighbors Believe?”

In one of our Adult Spiritual Growth classes this fall, we are reading the book What Do Our Neighbors Believe? Questions and Answers about Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. During our adult confirmation class, the book we studied about other religions was very popular, so I thought this might do well in our class lineup.

After looking at the book, I suggested it would be interesting and educational to have representatives from each of the three religions speak on this subject at our church. The seed was sown. I reached out to Pastor Gene, Rabbi Bekah Goldman, and Aida Mansoor, and they all agreed to participate. By introducing the common aspects of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the speakers will help us understand the genuine differences and the many similarities between our religions.

Pastor Gene Ott: Preaching and Methodism are ingrained in Pastor Gene, going back to his great-grandfather. His love of storytelling is foundational to his commitment to community formation, and he believes that loving God, self, and neighbor springs from loving relationships. As a husband and father of two children, Gene preaches in a relatable and practical style. He encourages his members to learn about other religions so we can all understand and love one another, despite any differences.

Aida Mansoor is the Director of Field Education at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace. She also serves in the community and works with the Muslim Coalition of Connecticut and the Islamic Association of Greater Hartford. She is also part of the MCCT Speakers Bureau, presenting to hospitals, government agencies, and places of worship on Cultural Sensitivity with respect to Islam and Muslims, addressing misinformation and stereotyping. She spoke to the Susannas in May to great reviews. She will be honored at the CT Council for Interreligious Understanding on November 18.

Rabbi Bekah Goldman has been the spiritual leader at FVJC-Emek Shalom since 2016, having previously served as the sole spiritual leader of two congregations in New England, where she led Shabbat services, provided pastoral care, and officiated at lifecycle events. Rabbi Bekah is passionate about enhancing the fabric of Jewish life and strengthening understanding, compassion, and cooperation within the entire Farmington Valley interfaith community and beyond by leveraging her modern, progressive, and deeply compassionate view of the intersections of religion, culture, and society.

We are so fortunate to have these three representatives join us on Tuesday, November 12, from 7 – 8:30 pm in Wesley Hall at Simsbury United Methodist Church to discuss What Do Our Neighbors Believe? This event will be open to the public, so make your plans early.

Please join us.

Eileen Brogan