Course Objectives
This course is designed to foster a deeper understanding of the role of interfaith dialogue in promoting peace, cooperation, and social change. It aims to equip participants with knowledge from various religious traditions and philosophies that contribute to global harmony. The course also provides insights into the practical applications of Generative AI, knowledge management, and environmental sustainability in activism. It seeks to enhance collaborative efforts across faiths and tackle common challenges by bringing together resource persons from diverse backgrounds. Ultimately, this course encourages participants to engage actively in their communities while building long-term relationships for sustained interfaith dialogue.
Students Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Understand the foundational principles of interfaith dialogue and its importance in fostering peace and mutual respect.
- Analyze how different religious traditions contribute to global interfaith conversations and social harmony.
- Apply Generative AI and knowledge management tools to enhance their activism and community work.
- Identify and propose solutions to shared challenges through collaboration across different faith communities.
- Design and participate in sustainable interfaith initiatives that address environmental, social, and cultural issues.
Please read the contract carefully in the registration form:
Course Schedule
Sep 25, 2024
Course Introduction
The half-hour session will introduce the course. Students can ask questions about the requirements and course details.
Week 1 - Oct 2, 2024
Understanding Fethullah Gülen’s Philosophy
This session explores the core philosophies of Fethullah Gülen, focusing on his ideas of peace, dialogue, and education. Participants will learn how these principles promote interfaith cooperation. The discussion will highlight how Gülen’s teachings can serve as a foundation for building bridges between communities.
Week 2 - Oct 9, 2024
Foundations of Dialogue in Islam
This session will delve into Islamic teachings encouraging interfaith dialogue and mutual respect. It will explore how Islamic values promote peace and understanding across different religions. Participants will discuss the role of dialogue in Islam for fostering unity.
Week 3 - Oct 17, 2024
Value of Religion in One’s Life
This session examines the role of religion in shaping individual identities and community values. It will explore how personal faith strengthens social cohesion and fosters interfaith relationships. Participants will discuss how faith influences daily life and contributes to societal harmony.
Week 4 - Oct 23, 2024
Dialogue with Abrahamic Faiths and Beyond
This session focuses on fostering interfaith dialogue between Abrahamic religions and extending these conversations to other faith traditions. Participants will learn best practices for engaging in respectful and meaningful dialogue to break down barriers and build stronger interfaith connections.
Week 5 - Oct 30, 2024
Knowledge Management
This session will explore the importance of knowledge management in effective interfaith collaboration. Participants will discuss tools and strategies for managing and sharing knowledge within interfaith networks, including using Google Drive for document storage, email for communication, and contact management tools for building and maintaining relationships. The session will emphasize how the proper organization of digital resources can enhance the long-term impact of social activism.
Week 6 - Nov 6, 2024
Religions and Terrorism
This session will examine how religious narratives are sometimes misappropriated to justify acts of terrorism. The discussion will focus on how faith communities can reclaim their traditions to counter extremist ideologies. Participants will explore strategies to combat the misuse of religion in violent contexts.
Week 7 - Nov 13, 2024
Hindu Spirituality and Philosophy
This session explores Hinduism’s rich spiritual and philosophical traditions. Participants will gain an understanding of how Hindu beliefs contribute to fostering peace and harmony in interfaith dialogue. The discussion will focus on the role of Hindu spirituality in promoting global understanding and tolerance.
Week 8 - Nov 20, 2024
Addressing Common Challenges through Interfaith Dialogue
This session will focus on identifying shared challenges faced by different faith communities. Participants will explore how interfaith collaboration can offer innovative solutions to these challenges. Practical examples will be discussed to showcase the power of collective action through dialogue.
Week 9 - Jan 8, 2025
Building Sustained Environmental Civilization
This session will discuss how religious communities can contribute to creating a sustainable environmental future. Participants will learn how faith can play a pivotal role in environmental activism. The conversation will center on faith-driven initiatives to build a more sustainable world.
Week 10 - Jan 15, 2025
How Interfaith Activists Can Leverage Generative AI
This session explores how interfaith activists can use Generative AI to support their activism. Participants will learn about AI tools to enhance outreach, education, and engagement. Additionally, the session will cover how to design effective prompts to optimize the use of Generative AI for interfaith dialogue and collaboration.
Week 11 - Jan 22, 2025
Interfaith in Action: Past and Present in the USA
This session will present real-world examples of interfaith collaborations across the United States. Participants will learn about successful projects and their impact on local communities. The discussion will highlight key takeaways for implementing interfaith initiatives in their contexts.
Week 12 - Jan 29, 2025
Jewish Tradition as One of the Abrahamic Faiths
This session will explore how Jewish teachings contribute to interfaith dialogue beyond the Abrahamic faiths. Participants will learn how core Jewish principles promote tolerance, understanding, and respect across various religious communities. The discussion will focus on the broader role of Jewish traditions in global interfaith efforts.
Week 13 - Feb 15, 2025
Graduation Ceremony
A ceremony will celebrate the program’s completion and the participants’ achievements. Certificates of completion will be awarded to those who have completed the sessions. The ceremony will also include discussions on plans and continued interfaith dialogue.
Additional Course Details
- The weekly topics will be covered online from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm PST on Wednesdays.
- Students need to have their cameras on at all times during the classes.
- After twelve weeks of sessions, students will be handed a certificate of completion on February 15, 2025.
- As part of the three-course program, students will visit places of worship on weekends in January.
- Students have to attend all sessions, just two sessions can be excused by taking written approval.
Enrollment Procedures
College students pursuing their education in the West of America are eligible to apply.
Students need to submit applications by September 30, 2024.
Please read the contract carefully in the registration form:
For more information
Please refer to Atilla Kahveci