Inland Valley Interfaith Working Group for Middle East Peace

04/15/2024

On Sunday evening, 4/14/24, our group sponsored an Israel/Palestine Conversation, in partnership with the University of La Verne. That presentation is now available for viewing.

04/04/2024

Join us April 14, 2024 at 6:30pm for a panel discussion at the University of LaVerne, Ludwick Sacred Space.

11/29/2023

We share these words from University of La Verne President Pardis Mahdavi regarding civil discourse in turbulent times.

Dear Campus Community,

The University of La Verne realizes that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict elicits strong views and has had widespread effects. I want to reaffirm the importance of community, respect, and well-being. We are devastated by the continued violence and tragic loss of life, and are acutely aware that individuals within our campus community may be directly or indirectly impacted.



The University of La Verne remains steadfast in its mission and core values, supporting an inclusive learning community that fosters understanding, compassion, and an acceptable shared belief in the humanity of one another. We are a higher education institution with the unique ability to offer guidance and share safe spaces for reflection together in community.

We promote freedom of expression, emphasizing our interfaith ideals and well-being resources that help bolster our safe and peaceful environment.



As members of the University of La Verne community, I ask that you connect with campus resources and engage in the opportunities to increase education and understanding, and to further bridge together our communities. As a community member that supports the University of La Verne, I invite you to remain engaged in productive dialogue and learn with us as we work through these challenging times.



We do not tolerate actions or speech stemming from hate, nor harmful rhetoric that could potentially incite segregation, isolation, and/or violence. If you or a peer or colleague are struggling, please consider connecting with the university's many resources.



May we see an end to this tragic time by sharing in peaceful, diplomatic discussions and resolutions together as one. I look forward to the University of La Verne’s continued work in shaping the brilliant minds of tomorrow's change-makers and exemplifying what it truly means to belong.



Sincerely,

Pardis Mahdavi, PhD

President

11/16/2023

In lieu of the annual Interfaith Walk for Middle East Peace scheduled for October 22, 2023, our group decided to hold a silent vigil, which took place at St. Ambrose Episcopol Church in Claremont. Here are some scenes from that gathering, which also included a communal meal, also held in silence until it was completed. (Following that, participants were free to talk if they desired.)

11/16/2023

The Board of Trustees of the Parliament of the World’s Religions--after much thought, prayer and heartfelt deliberation, realizing the complex and critical situation at hand--issues the following majority but non-unanimous statement: In the midst of the Israel-Hamas War, the Parliament of the Worl...

04/21/2023

Very well said - thank you!!

I’ve always been a curious student. Raised a Christian, I used to clearly separate my religious beliefs with academic pursuits. I would spend Friday mornings absorbing a lecture on how European colonizers used religion to subjugate and oppress indigenous peoples across Africa, Asia, and the Americ...

04/19/2023

We had a wonderful time last night at a community-wide Interfaith Iftar hosted by Pacifica Institute, St Ambrose Episcopal church and our group.
Very inspirational and moving experience for promoting peace! Also very good food! Thanks to all who attended and everyone who organized this event.

04/08/2023

The Muslim Public Affairs Council, alongside the Council on American–Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) and the Shura Council of Southern California, hosted a press...

04/07/2023

Please plan now to join us on April 18th for a wonderful opportunity of friendship, fellowship and delicious food! Please RSVP as soon as possible and invite members of your community and neighbors!! See you on April 18th!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/claremont-interfaith-iftar-dinner-tickets-611710311007

02/15/2023

02/12/2023

Powerful song about Grace!

“Just Like That” by Bonnie Raitt from her album, Just Like That... 65th GRAMMY Award winner for Song of the Year and Best American Roots Song!Available now e...