2024 October Newsletter

 

Faith in Community: Celebrating Unity in Metropolitan Detroit

 

The Leadership Lens

InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit Board of Directors

Vice-Chairman, Ecumenical Theological Seminary, Detroit and Adjunct Professor of Religious Studies and History, University of Detroit Mercy

Dr. Warren R. Copeland, Former Mayor of Springfield, OH and My Friend


Springfield, Ohio, is facing turbulent times, and my heart is with them. Just like Detroit, where Arab and Muslim communities enrich our culture, Springfield is welcoming a wave of Haitian immigrants—legal refugees who are essential to their community's revival. But it's a challenging process, marked by tough rhetoric and disruption. Springfield lost a champion of compassion with the passing of former Mayor Dr. Warren R. Copeland, who led with grace for 35 years. As the city grapples with these challenges, they will need to uphold the values of respect, inclusion, and collective action, much like we’ve done here in Detroit. My thoughts are with them, and I miss my dear friend Warren.

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Faith and Works Podcast

Anti-Democracy, Anti-Diversity


In this important episode of the Faith and Works Podcast, we dive into the growing threats to democracy and the essential role interfaith communities play in safeguarding our core values.


With the November 5th election fast approaching, this conversation is more timely than ever. Featuring powerful voices like Shirly Stancator, Rabbi Sam Englender, and Steve Spreitzer, the discussion reveals how undermining democracy often goes hand-in-hand with attacks on diversity, creating a dangerous cycle. Moderated by Saeed Kahn, this episode is a call to action for faith communities to unite in defense of justice and inclusion.


Don’t miss it! Tune in now!


We invite you to listen to Faith and Works Episode 10:

Anti-Democracy, Anti-Diversity


Watch/Listen Here

New Podcast Episode Arriving Soon!

Religious Diversity Journeys

From the Langar to the Prayer Mat:

What Students Learned from Two Unique Religious Communities



This October, middle school students from across Metro Detroit kicked off the first Religious Diversity Journeys (RDJ) faith trips of the year, exploring the Rochester Gurdwara and the Muslim Community of the Western Suburbs in Canton.


From experiencing sacred Kirtan and sharing a communal meal at the Gurdwara to witnessing the call to prayer and learning about the Five Pillars of Islam at the mosque, students learned about diverse faiths of Sikhism and Islam. These immersive experiences encouraged student curiosity and reflection, helping students build bridges of understanding and seeing beyond differences. The first of many exciting journeys, these trips set the stage for an exciting year of learning and connection!

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Bridging to Belonging

 

Undivide Us: Sparking Hope and Dialogue in a Fractured America


America stands at a pivotal moment. Political polarization feels like it's driving an unbridgeable wedge between us. From social media noise to divisive headlines, the reminders of our fractured society are everywhere. But is that the whole story? What if we stopped viewing those who disagree as enemies and started building bridges instead?


On September 23rd, at the West Bloomfield Public Library, community members gathered for the screening of Undivide Us—a powerful film that digs deep into toxic partisanship. Hosted by the InterFaith Leadership Council and Bridging to Belonging, this event inspired attendees to become bridge-builders in their own communities.

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Education Programs

A Journey of Discovery: Eastern Odyssey Tour Brings Buddhist and Hindu Traditions to Life


On Friday, September 27th, 18 travelers embarked on the Eastern Odyssey bus tour, visiting the Midwest Buddhist Meditation Center in Warren and the Bharatiya Hindu Temple in Troy. With guided tours, insightful talks, a mindfulness meditation, and a chance to join in a Hindu chant, participants delved into the rich traditions of Buddhism and Hinduism. The day also featured a delicious Indian lunch and opportunities for reflection and connection. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with one participant summing it up: "This group makes you a better person by just attending!"

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Interfaith Health Equity Partnership

Maternal Infant Health Advancement

"Bridging the Gaps Where We Belong"


Enjoy this brief video that highlights the impact of our work through this initiative made possible through funding Southeast Michigan Perinatal Quality Improvement Coalition, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

Culminating Success: Interfaith Leaders Unite for Maternal Health and Postpartum Care


The recent Infant Maternal Health Advancement event was a powerful evening of connection and reflection of the success of the initiative. Held at the stunning St. John Armenian Church in Southfield, the evening opened with a warm welcome and blessing, setting the stage for Dr. Cynthia Taueg's keynote on the vital SEMPQIC grant. Highlights included updates on key maternal health stats, the unveiling of new postpartum and fatherhood support initiatives, and an engaging discussion with faith and health leaders. This inspiring event showcased the ongoing commitment to creating equity in maternal and infant health, with exciting plans on the horizon!

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As part of our initiative, Maternal Infant Health Advancement, “Bridging the Gaps Where We Belong”, a program that is made possible with grant funding from Southeast Michigan Perinatal Quality Improvement Coalition , Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and United Way for Southeastern Michigan; We believe that Detroit and the surrounding communities can greatly benefit from this initiative, empowering individuals with knowledge and tools to take proactive steps towards their health and well-being.

Access to reliable health information and resources remains a significant barrier in many communities, particularly in the realms of maternal health and chronic conditions like hypertension, which disproportionately affect BIPOC communities and underserved populations. 

The Prenatal and Postnatal Care Resource Library is live now, and was created to equip expectant mothers and community health advocates with crucial information to ensure healthier pregnancy outcomes. 

Whether preparing for a baby's arrival or adjusting to early parenthood, this library aims to enlighten, empower and support anyone with knowledge towards a healthier birth.


UPCOMING EVENTS

CHECK THIS OUT!


Upcoming events for both the Donate Life Coalition of Michigan and Gift of Life Michigan/Detroit MOTTEP Foundation.

Find Them Here
 
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