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IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

• May 08, 2012
• 14:06

  PII Intercultural Trip to Turkey April 9-19, 2012

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Peace Islands Institute (PII)  intercultural trip to Turkey took place between April 9-19th 2012. The group, who were African American clergy, had the opportunity to see many historical sites as well as get to know the Turkish culture very closely. In addition to visiting important sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Blue Mosque, House of Virgin Mary, underground city and carved chapels in Cappadocia, the group enjoyed dinners with local families. The group also visited a newspaper, a dialogue foundation, a university and a private school in Turkey. The cities that were visited on the trip were Istanbul, Izmir, Konya, Antalya, Cappadocia and Bursa.

• May 01, 2012
• 16:34

  Friendship Gathering at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Holy Spirit Lutheran Church hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gathering on April 29th 2012. Fatma Demirbas a PII volunteer spoke about PII programs and events held in NJ. It was a wonderful day for everyone and Fatma's presentation was very informative, lot's of questions were asked. We thank PII volunteer's for the wonderful food that everyone enjoyed and a special thanks to Pastor Peggy Niederer for making this event possible.

• 16:12

  PII Hosts Dr. Ellis-Williams to Celebrate "African-American Heritage Month"

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Feb 25, 2012 the Peace Islands Institute hosted Dr. Ellis-Williams for Black History Month on a PII Women Gatherings. Dr. Ellis-Williams explored some of the historical lynchpin ideas and resistance strategies (these include but not limited to Runaway, Music, Education- Intellectual Curiosity, Spirituality, Euthanasia, Wearing “Masks”, Writing, Oral history, Poetry/Dance/Art, Secret Societies, Coalition Building, and Quilting) that have shaped an African survivors paradigm. These powerful tools along with imagination helped position African Americans and African people in the role of active agents in social transformation within their own communities and also have set a standard for other oppressed groups across the globe.

• April 03, 2012
• 13:37

  Abraham's Table: Caldwell College

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Caldwell College hosted the Peace Islands Institute (PII) in an Abraham's Table on Wednesday March 28, 2012,. The theme was “Faith and Culture” from Christian, Jewish and Muslim Perspectives.

  Speakers:

  Father Anthony Randazzo

  Rabbi Allen Silverstein

  Fatma Demirbas

  We thank the PII volunteers for the wonderful food they prepared and convey a big thanks to Father Albert Berner for making this beautiful event possible.

  

  Father Anthony Randazzo:

  On this topic of faith in culture and example that has been given to all of us recently because we live in a high-powered sports culture, is the example of Tebow coming to the New York Jets.  If you have followed that to any degree with Tebow, you realize that he is someone who is sought after he has a personality, he has charisma, he got up the other day in front of press conference and said on a number of occasions how many times he’s excited about being with the Jets organization and the point of Tebow is that he has manifested his faith openly and publicly on the gridiron.

• March 20, 2012
• 14:53

  Peace In Islam

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  PII attended the United Methodist Church in Park Ridge, to deliver a speech on "Peace in Islam" on Thursday March 15, 2012. Dr. Mesut Sahin, a PII Volunteer Member and a Professor at NJIT made his presentation on the topic.

  Dr. Sahin started his speech with the meaning of Islam, which means "submission"; submission of desires to the will of God, "to surrender" or "resign oneself" and "Peace"; personal peace attained by utterly submitting to God (Allah). He then proceeded the greeting of "Salam" which means "Peace be upon you."

  Furthermore Dr Sahin talked about the life of Prophet Mohammed(PBUH) and other Prophets mentioned in the Holy Qur'an. He gave examples of struggles and challenges of Prophets with their communities, talked about the Islamic belief of common characteristics of all Prophets being trustworthy, reliable and fatanet [extra ordinary intelligence and understanding, creativity]. He mentioned the belief of Prophet Muhammad(PBUH) being the Seal of the Prophets, the last of the Messengers.
  

  In major misconceptions part Dr. Sahin said every religion had some extremists throughout the history, who had interpreted the holy book out of concept and put those as reasoning behind their wild activities.

  Q&A session followed the speech.

  It was a very educational experience. We thank Pastor Dr. Sudhama Ananda for the invitation.

• 14:37

  Friendship Gathering at Reformed Church of Highland Park

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  On March 11, 2012, The Reformed Church of Highland Park in New Jersey, opened their doors and hearts to the volunteers of the Peace Islands Institute. They ate and shared personal stories of their journeys in faith.

  Rev. Seth Kaper-Dale then invited everyone to a discussion about lent and the history of Christianity. He asked his people about their sacrifices during the 40-day holy period before Easter. People spoke about focus groups that helped them deepen their faith during this time of penance and self-deprivation.

  Sam Tuna, from the Turkish American community, in turn, spoke about Ramadan. He spoke about the meaning of "Assalaimu Alaikum” and the spiritual importance of 40 days in all religions. He said “most religions used this 40 day period as a break to quit something they regret, or start something they aspire to”. Ramadan was explained, using the activities of eating and drinking as the essential source to life. Tuna said Ramadan fasting, helps Muslims realize the purpose of all life- to meet the Creator who sustains everything.

  All the participants in the discussion related to the inter-personal similarities and differences and the ultimate realization that everyone ultimately believes in One God.

  Ferhan Tunagur, a Professor at Rutgers University talked about the purpose of dialogue to deal with similarities and differences. The catastrophic events of 9/11 polarized the U.S population and many looked at Muslims with suspicion. Inter-faith dialogue was the only way to bridge the gap and now the Peace Islands Institute is working hard to foster that relationship between followers of the Abrahamic religions.

  It was a wonderful event well spent together.

• March 13, 2012
• 14:31

  Faith Practices of Islam

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  PII attended the Trinity United Church family in Warren, to deliver a speech on Faith Practices of Islam on Sunday, March 11, 2012.

  Dr. Mesut Sahin, a PII Volunteer Member and a Professor at NJIT made his presentation on the topic.

  In his speech, Dr. Sahin talked about the social frame and historical background of people in Arabian Peninsula when Prophet Mohammed(PBUH) was born. He spoke about the expansion of Islam chronologically since the first revelation to Prop. Mohammed(PBUH).
  
  He gave examples of tolerance and living together in Prophet's life, as being the first one to move to Medina and founding a City State with Jews, and Christians. Futhermore, Dr. Sahin mentioned the status of the people of the book (followers of Abrahamic religions, Christians and Jews) in Islam, talked about the five pillars of Islam, and the basics of Islamic faith.

  A brief, but engaging Q&A session followed the speech.

  It was a very educational experience. We thank Heather Harris-Galgoci, Adult Education Coordinator of Trinity United Church for the invitation.

   

• March 09, 2012
• 19:30

  Islam in Brief at First United Methodist Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  PII attended the First United Methodist Church family in Westfield to deliver a speech on Islam in Brief and Major Misconceptions on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

  Ferhan Tunagur, a PII Volunteer Member and Professor at Rutgers University made his presentation on "Same Message since Adam through different messengers; Peace, Salvation, Submission to God. Islam in Brief and Major Misconceptions"

• March 07, 2012
• 15:34

  PII Lucheon hosts Cornell Brooks "Black History Month"

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Thursday February 23rd 2012, the Peace Islands Institute hosted Mr. Cornell Brooks to celebrate "African-American Heritage Month." He said, "This afternoon's celebration commemoration of African-American history month occurs at a peculiar moment in our civic history. It occurs at a particular and peculiar hour in the history of our democracy. It occurs at a particular date in the history of our post-racial democracy. It occurs at such a time where we have an African-American in the White House. We have African-Americans at the helm of some of America's most prestigious law firms. We have African-Americans leading some of our most prominent and prominent cities. We have such a mayor here today. We have such a mayor in this city of Newark."

• 15:24

  Abraham's Table at Calvary Episocopal Chruch

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Calvary Episcopal Church, Summit, hosted the Peace Islands Institute (PII) in an Abraham's Table event on Wednesday February 29, 2012,. The theme was “Violence and Religion” from Christian, Jewish and Muslim Perspectives.

  

  Speakers:

  Rev. Charles Rush

  Rabbi Avi Friedman

  Dr. Mesut Sahin

  Rabbi Avi Friedman:

  I think that we need to be mindful as we discuss this issue. We were challenged or we were asked to discuss this issue from a sort of national perspective: violence, war, and peace.

  But really this is not just a national issue, it’s an interpersonal issue. I was certainly reminded of that, and I think we were all reminded of that as we heard the news out of Ohio this week, when another disaffected young man walked into a high school and started shooting other high school students. So, this is not just about the way nations interact with one another, it’s the way we as individual human beings interact with one another.

• 15:09

  Book Conversation: The Political Trials and Times of Fethullah Gulen

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Peace Islands Institute hosted Dr. James Harrington at Ant Bookstore in Clifton on March 1st 2012. Journalist/Writer Aydogan Vatandas interviewed Dr. James Harrington on his book titled "Wrestling with Free Speech, Religious Freedom, and Democracy in Turkey: The Political Trials and Times of Fethullah Gulen". Following the interview, Dr. James Harrington did a book signing of his book. We thank him for his presence.

• March 02, 2012
• 16:28

  Friendship Gathering at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Feb 26th 2012, the St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Beverly NJ, hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gatering. Turkish-Americans from the area brought the homemade traditional refreshments with them. The Friendship gathering started with Reverend Legnani welcome speech and the introduction of PII.

  Murat Bayram, South Jersey Representative of PII extended his thanks to the Reverend and to the members of the church for allowing PII to have the opportunity to organize such friendship event. Then, he continued his words with stating that PII values these friendship meetings because of its influence and great impact on mutual understanding that builds long-lasting friendship. He stated that the success of these types of events lies in the sincerity.
  
  We thank Rev Robert Legnani for making this gathering possible

• February 21, 2012
• 15:18

  9/11 and its impacts on international relations and domestic politics

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  

  Peace Islands Institute organized a conference in cooperation with Seton Hall University School of Diplomacy titled "9/11 and its impacts on international relations and domestic politics" on March 23rd, 2012 between 9am and 1 pm.

• February 16, 2012
• 18:50

  Cookbook Benefits NJ Soup Kitchens

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Peace Islands Institute's Women Association published a cookbook that contains recipes from three Abrahamic traditions, Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The idea of publishing a book came about when women of three Abrahamic faiths collected traditional recipes from their respective cuisines and publish them in a book to generate revenues for soup kitchens in the area. Revenue from sales of the first editions were donated to Cumoc Echo in Paterson and Faith Kitchen in Dover, NJ. Directors of Cumoc and Faith Kitchen were pleased with donations, who expressed that publishing a cookbook that was prepared by members of three faiths demonstrates an exemplary activity aimed at fighting Poverty. Peace Islands Institute thanks to Lynn Webb, Nuray Sonmez, Stephanie Carbone, Rukiye Koc, Barbara Osborne and Nesrin Yilmaz for their hard work and dedication in carrying out such an excellent project.

  We thank all of the volunteers for sharing their delicious recipes with everyone.

• 15:12

  New Web Address

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  

  As you all know, we have recently changed our name to "Peace Islands Institute" and have been in the process of transition. Another step in this process is a new web address. We will soon move to www.PEACEISLANDS.org. You can visit our new web site and send us feedback. Your feedback is valuabale. You may contact us at infonj@peaceislands.org.

  Peace Islands Team

• February 15, 2012
• 15:40

  Friendship Gathering at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Our Lady of Mount Virgin Roman Catholic Church in Middlesex hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gathering on Sunday, February 12th, 2012.
  
  Sister James Xavier started the program by an interfaith prayer; thanking the Lord for uniting all children of Adam under one roof. She talked about how she learned and attended previous Peace Islands Institute programs in the region. How she is effected by the beauty of these interfaith gatherings of people from all walks of life. She mentioned the objectives of Friendship Gatherings, being to breakdown barriers between communities by visiting them in their faith-houses. And she welcomed the Peace Islands Institute volunteers and members by saying "they come as family and friends to engage in friendly conversations".

• February 13, 2012
• 15:35

  Friendship Gathering at Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville hosted the Peace Islands Institute and Temple Micah in a Friendship Gathering on January 15^th 2012. The main highlight of the gathering was a presentation on the peaceful co-existence of three faiths during the Ottoman rule at large and multi-ethnic and religious lands for centuries.

  The presentation started by introducing the Islamic perspective on how Muslims should deal with other faiths, especially Christianity and Judaism, in different levels of society and state by pointing to the Quranic statements as well as practises of Prophet Muhammed (PbuH) and his close successors. Then, the presentation portrayed how those Islamic teachings were used to build a peaceful society by Ottomans despite the high ethnic and religious diversity present on their lands. Finally, Ottomans’ decline and dispersion and how nationalist movement influenced this process and formation of modern day Turkey was discussed. Q&A followed the presentation.

  Food and refreshments were provided by the Church, Temple Micah, and Peace Island Institute. New friends were made and new thoughts were provoked. It was a wonderful afternoon well spent.

• February 06, 2012
• 15:44

  Friendship Gathering at Temple Sholom

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  the Temple Sholom in River Edge hosted the Peace Islands Institute (formerly the Interfaith Dialog Center) in a Friendship Gathering on January 29th 2012. Dr. Levent Koç, Executive Director, informed the guests about PII and its programs as well as discuss the religon of Islam. There was Q&A followinging the discussion, many questions were asked.

  This and such programs are vital to promote Jewish Muslim dialogue.

  Rabbi Borowitz showed the PII volunteers Torahs and made explanations at the end of the program. There was another Q&A time here. Lunch was also served at this event provided by PII volunteers.

  We thank Rabbi Neal Borrovitz for making this event possible. We also thank Joy Kurland, Director, Jewish Community Relations Council of UJA Federation of Northern New Jersey, for her contribution and for her presence at the program.

• January 27, 2012
• 14:23

  Venerated Women in Abrahamic Religons

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute hosted a "PII Women Gathering" to celebrate interfaith unity and strengthen communication between the Abrahamic religions at the Turkish Cultural Center in Ridgefield on on January 15^th 2012.

  Speakers Rabbi Debra Hachen, Sister Antonella Chunka, and Dr. Zuleyha Colak discussed from their own perspectives of how women are venerated in the Abrahamic religions.

  Rabbi Debra Hachen of Temple Beth-El in Jersey City talked about Ruth from the Hebrew Scriptures and particularly focused on Ruth's inspirational journey. She said she selected Ruth for her discussion because she believes Ruth to be a great example of a righteous, virtuous woman. Rabbi Hachen described how Ruth demonstrated courage and passion by following her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of her husband, Mahlon, and how this act earned Ruth acceptance from society.

  Sister Antonella Chunka of Felician College told of the life of the venerable Mother Mary Angela Truszkowka, who lived in Poland of the 19th century. Sister Chunka noted the reason she chose to speak of Truszkowka was because this blessed woman could be an inspiration for women from all religions to bring spiritual renewal to the world.

  Dr. Züleyha Çolak is a lecturer with The Middle East Institute at Columbia University described the life of Zuleikha (Züleyha), the wife of Egyptian statesman Potiphar, who tried and failed to seduce the Prophet Joseph. Çolak explained she selected this woman because she is a perfect example of a heroin who followed her passion and demonstrated great courage by confessing to society. Zuleikha transformed herself by accepting the message of Joseph and acknowledging him as a Prophet. Çolak cited Islamic resources and concluded that Zuleikha demonstrates the possibility of salvation.

• January 25, 2012
• 1:26

  PII Art & Essay Contest 2012

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  

  The deadline of the contest has been extended to May 11th due to the demand by schools and teachers. Please send us your essays and art works by then.

  Peace Islands Institute (formerly the Interfaith Dialog Center) announces the 3rd Annual Art&Essay Contest for the middle and high school students in the State of New Jersey. PII’s Art & Essay contest for grades 6-12 was held first time in 2010. Wiinners will be awarded more than $10,000 cash in total.

• January 24, 2012
• 15:07

  Meaning and Practices of Prayer

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Caldwell Methodist Church in Caldwell hosted the Peace Islands Institute (PII) on its first Abraham's Table of the New Year on January 10, 2012. The theme was "The Meaning and Practices of Prayer from Christian, Jewish and Muslim Perspectives". We thank the PII volunteers for the wonderful food they prepared and convey a big thanks to Rev. Jeff Markay for making this beautiful event possible.

  Speakers:

  The Rev. Mara Joy Norden, Chaplain at Craine's Mill in West Caldwell.

  Karen Frank,Congregational Nurse at Agudath Israel,also certified in spiritual direction.

  Dr. Levent Koç, Executive Director of the Peace Islands Institute(formerly known as the Interfaith Dialogue Center)

  (All disscussed the topic from they're own perspectives.)

• January 05, 2012
• 15:54

  Acts of Racism towards Synagogues

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  As the Peace Islands Institute we have been a part of the support for the Jewish Community and spoken against the recent racist violence against the 3 synagogues in New Jersey. We condemn this hatred and violence in the strongest terms. We condemn anti-Semitism and acts of any violence or hatred directed at any religious and ethnic community.

• 15:15

  Robert Carter, civil rights pioneer from NJ passes away

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We at the Peace Islands Institute were deeply saddened to hear about the death of Judge Robert Carter who passed away on January 3rd, 2012 at the age of 94. He was a federal judge for the Southern District of New York nominated by President Richard Nixon. Judge Robert Carter's mission was to expand the law against discrimination of blacks as much as possible. He was such a kind, gentle soul.

  We are thankful for his advancements in the Civil Rights Movement. In recognition of his civil rights achievements, Fordham University School of Law gave Carter an honorary Juris Doctor degree in November 2004. Our prayers are with him, his family and those who love and respect him.

• December 14, 2011
• 5:00

  Mary in Islam

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  PII Women Association Director Nuray Sonmez delivered a speech on Mary in the Qur'an at Felician College on Saturday Dec. 10, 2011. A brief Q&A followed the speech. We thank Sister Maryann Mueller for the invitation.

• 5:00

  Mary in Islam

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  PII Women Association Director Nuray Sonmez delivered a speech on Mary in the Qur'an at Felician College on Saturday Dec. 10, 2011. A brief Q&A followed the speech. We thank Sister Maryann Mueller for the invitation.

• December 12, 2011
• 17:13

  Friendship Gathering at First Presbyterian Church, Carlstadt

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The First Presbyterian Church in Carlstadt hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gathering on Sunday, November 20^th 2011. Rev Donald Pitches introduced Dr. Levent Koc, Executive Director the Peace Islands Institute for New Jersey. He discussed PII programs and event that are held throughout the year. Dr, Koc also told the story of his friendship with Rev. Pitches and especially stressed upon that Rev. Pitches had introduced him to many clergy anf community leaders thereby helping him expand PII's network and programs portfolio. Rev. Pitches serves on the Advisory Board of PII.

  Many community members attended this event, including Mayor William Roseman who too serves on PII's Advisory Board. PII volunteers prepared home cooked meals that all the guests enjoyed. It was unforgettable day, new friends were made. We thank Rev. Donald Pitches for hosting us at his  Church.

• December 07, 2011
• 7:00

  What Does Holy Land Mean to Me?

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Temple Neve Shalom in Metuchen hosted the Peace Islands Institute in an Abraham's Table on December 6th 2011 in the evening. The topic discussed was "What Does the Holy Land Mean to Me", which is a topic that may bring members of three faiths togerther rather than alienate them. Each speaker shared their own perspective on the topic. Q&A followed the discussion. It was a wonderful evening well spent, we thank Rabbi Gerald Zelizer for making this wonderful event possible. Food and refresments were also provided by Temple Neve Shalom. New friends were made on this unforgettable evening

  Speakers:

  Rabbi Gerald Zelizer, Temple Neve Shalom in Metuchen

  Rev. Jeff Markay, United Methodist Church, Caldwell

  Dr. Levent Koc, Peace Islands Institute

  Below is very brief summary of the speeches. Two newspapers made a lengthy stroy of the program. Please click the following links to read them: "Toward Understanding" on The Courier News, "Three faiths consider connection to singular land" on New Jersey Jewish News.

• 5:00

  Abraham's Table: Peace and Poverty

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Bergen Community College hosted the Peace Islands Institute in an Abraham's Table Luncheon on December 6th 2011. The theme of the event was "Peace and Poverty". Speakers from three Abrahamic Religions spoke about the topic from their own perspectives. Rev. Donald Pitches, Rabbi Neal Borovitz, and Prof. Farhan Tanagur took the podium and disscussed the the topic. Lunch was also served which was prepared by the volunteers of the PII.

  We thank the people at Bergen Community College for making this event possible. Below is the very brief summary of the speeches.

• November 22, 2011
• 5:00

  Diversity Contest Exhibition

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute was invited to share its Diversity Art & Essay winning pieces on a display on November 21, 2011 at Bergen Community College.  The college hosted its annual Asian Heritage Week. Ambassador Sichan Siv, the first Asian American to serve in an Ambassadorial capacity to the United Nations, visited the school and gave a lecture to all of the individuals as well as some staff. Our exhition took place before and during this wonderful luncheon. We thank Prof. Win Win Kyi for the invite.

• 5:00

  Diversity Contest Exhibition

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute was invited to share its Diversity Art & Essay winning pieces on a display on November 21, 2011 at Bergen Community College.  The college hosted its annual Asian Heritage Week. Ambassador Sichan Siv, the first Asian American to serve in an Ambassadorial capacity to the United Nations, visited the school and gave a lecture to all of the individuals as well as some staff. Our exhition took place before and during this wonderful luncheon. We thank Prof. Win Win Kyi for the invite.

• November 18, 2011
• 5:00

  Dialogue and Unity Dinner, North Jersey

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute, formerly the IDC, hosted its annual “Dialog and Unity Dinner” for North Jersey at the Teaneck Marriot on November 17, 201. The theme of the night was “Poverty: Time to Act Together”. This was third dinner organized this year: fist was in Burlington County on Oct. 20th and the second was in Middlesex County on Nov. 3rd. Peace Islands is hoping to reach out to more of the society by organizing these dinners in different locations and times.

• November 14, 2011
• 5:00

  Friendship Gathering at St John's Episcopal Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The St John's Episcopal Church, Montclair, hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gathering on November 13,  2011. This gathering like other PII initiatives provided opportunity to build bridge between two communities, Turkish American Muslims and Christians.

  Rev Andrew G. Butler spoke on behalf of St. John’s saying “I want to thank you and all who attended the recent Friendship Gathering at our church. I was delighted by the number of people from the Turkish Muslim community who made the commitment to be with us and share their time and delicious food.

  In speaking with several of our parishioners who were in attendance, it was felt that this was a wonderful event and that our new friends were warm and gracious. The more I have been in contact with you and your friends; the more I am convinced that this must be a characteristic of the Turkish Muslim people. For this, and for you, I give thanks and count it as a blessing.

  May you continue to be strengthened in your work to bring peace and understanding to a world desperately in need of healing”

  The Peace Islands Institute brought in some home cooked food prepared by PII volunteers that everyone enjoyed very much. New friends were made on this wonderful event throughout more than an hour.

  We thank Rev. Andrew G. Butler for inviting PII volunteers to his his church and making this event possible.

• 5:00

  Friendship Gathering at St John's Episcopal Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The St John's Episcopal Church, Montclair, hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gathering on November 13,  2011. This gathering like other PII initiatives provided opportunity to build bridge between two communities, Turkish American Muslims and Christians.

  Rev Andrew G. Butler spoke on behalf of St. John’s saying “I want to thank you and all who attended the recent Friendship Gathering at our church. I was delighted by the number of people from the Turkish Muslim community who made the commitment to be with us and share their time and delicious food.

  In speaking with several of our parishioners who were in attendance, it was felt that this was a wonderful event and that our new friends were warm and gracious. The more I have been in contact with you and your friends; the more I am convinced that this must be a characteristic of the Turkish Muslim people. For this, and for you, I give thanks and count it as a blessing.

  May you continue to be strengthened in your work to bring peace and understanding to a world desperately in need of healing”

  The Peace Islands Institute brought in some home cooked food prepared by PII volunteers that everyone enjoyed very much. New friends were made on this wonderful event throughout more than an hour.

  We thank Rev. Andrew G. Butler for inviting PII volunteers to his his church and making this event possible.

• November 09, 2011
• 18:01

  Annual Dialog and Unity Dinner, Central Jersey

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Peace Islands Institute (PII), formerly IDC, hosted its  annual “Dialog and Unity Dinner” at the Hyatt Regency, in New Brunswick, November 3rd, 2011. The theme of the night was “Poverty: Time to Act Together”. The program started with the reception at 5:30 p.m. Guests enjoyed the refreshments and PII Art & Essay Contest Exhibit while they had opportunity to meet and socialize with each other.

  Keynote speakers were Dr. Jon Pahl from Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and Rev. Lisanne Finston Executive Director of Elijah's Promise Soup Kitchen at New Brunswick. U.S Attorney Paul J. Fishman sent his regrets not being able to attend the program.

• October 31, 2011
• 5:00

  Peace Islands hosts Dr. Vince Parillo

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute hosted Dr. Vince Parrillo for a Book Conversations program at the Ant Bookstore in Clifton on October 27, 2011

  Dr. Vince Parillo discussed his recent novel “Guardians of the Gate” – which is a compelling historical novel about Ellis Island and the people who worked and/or emigrated through there in the 1890s and early 1900s. He read several passages from his novel as well as gave historical information about Ellis Island.

  There was Q&A after the discussion and also a book signing, we thank Dr. Vince Parrillo for his valuable presentation.

• October 27, 2011
• 14:41

  Hispanic Heritage Month with Asw. Annette Quijano

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  On Saturday October 22nd, the Peace Islands Institute hosted Asw Annette Quijano to celebrate the "Hispanic Heritage Month". Guests had breakfast first. Following her speech there was a brief Q&A. Many attended, it was a wonderful morning.

• 14:10

  Growing in the spiritual life by turning inward towards prayer and contemplation

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Allwood Community Church hosted the Peace Islands Institute in an Abraham's Table event on October 25th, 2011. The topic discussed was "Growing in the spiritual life by turning inward towards prayer and contemplation". Three speakers shared their own perspectives on the topic. Q&A follwed after each speaker made their presentation.

  We thank the volunteers of the Peace Islands Institute for their delicous home cooked meals and a big thanks to Rev. Cari Keith for making this Abraham's Table possible.

  Speakers:
  Rabbi Randal Mark, Shomrei Torah The Wayne Conservative Congregation
  Rev Cari Keith, Allwood Community Church
  Mesut Sahin, NJIT

• October 24, 2011
• 14:19

  Earthquake in Turkey

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the devastating earthquake, which has caused such destruction and loss of life in Van, Turkey. 534 people were confirmed killed as of Wednesday Oct. 27 after the earthquake hit parts of southeast Turkey on Sunday with rescue teams working through the night to free trapped survivors. 2,300 were wounded, it is reported.  More were feared dead, as Turkey's most powerful quake in a decade toppled remote villages of mud brick houses.

• October 21, 2011
• 18:22

  Annual Dialog and Unity Dinner, South Jersey

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Peace Islands Institute (PII), formerly IDC, hosted its first annual “Dialog and Friendship Dinner” at The Merion in South Jersey on October 20th, 2011. The theme of the night was “Poverty: Time to Act Together”. The program started with the reception at 5:30 p.m. Guests enjoyed the refreshments and PII Art & Essay Contest Exhibit while they had opportunity to meet and socialize with each other.

  Keynote speakers were Dr. Jon Pahl and Rev. Dr. Katie Day, both from Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.

• October 17, 2011
• 17:38

  Friendship Gathering at First Presbyterian Church, Rutherford

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gathering on November 15, 2011. We thank Stephen Adubato, DMD, for partnering with PII in organizing this wonderful gathering.

  Steve Adubato welcomed the guests and made a short speech in the beginning. Dr. Mesut Sahin presented on behalf of PII Steve Adubato and Linda Zinn hand-made Turkish mugs.

  Here is how Stephen Adubato, DMD, of the First Presbyterian Church described the program: "I would just like to send an email to thank you and the Interfaith Dialog Center for a warm and wonderful evening of fellowship and friendship. The participants attending through the First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford had an enjoyable evening of magnificent food, great conversation, and the exchanging of stories from life experiences. It was an evening of learning and respect between brothers and sisters of different backgrounds from which a greater understanding of each other's beliefs ensued. I thank you for giving us this opportunity".

  We thank the Volunteers of the Peace Islands Institute for preparing the food, and Stephen Adubato for making the event possible

• October 12, 2011
• 16:52

  Hopes and concerns in the threshold of second decade of 9/11

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  

  Peace Islands Institute (PII) hosted Mr. Michael Ward, SAC, FBI Newark Division, at the latest luncheon. His speech was entitled “Hopes and Concerns in the Threshold of Second Decade of 9/11: A Law Enforcement Perspective”. The program started off with reception where guests had an opportunity to meet each other and enjoy the fellowship. Mr. Ward started his presentation showing a video on terrorism. He speech was followed by Q&A session. Below is a summary of Mr. Ward’s speech:

• October 06, 2011
• 1:30

  Reflections on Ramadan Dinners held at Churches/Synagogues

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute (PII) was active throughout Ramadan, August 2011, with Iftar organizations at various churches and synagogues (friendship gatherings), and home dinners (neighborliness project) where Turkish-American families hosted their non-Muslim friends at their homes.

  As PII, we believe by breaking bread together we will have a stronger dialogue and better understanding of each other’s values and ethnicity. This will set an example for our children to follow and make our and future communities a better place to live in. Below you will find reflections on Ramadan dinners.

• October 04, 2011
• 13:49

  Friendship Gathering at First Reformed Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  September 25 2011, The First Reformed Church in New Brunswick, hosted the Peace Islands Institute in a Friendship Gathering.

  Topics that were discussed were "The current cultural / political developments in Turkey and its increasing role in international relations and How does the understanding of Islam as represented by IDC fit into the wider picture - inside Turkey"

  Dr. Levent Koc, CEO of the Peace Islands Institue disscussed each topic while the guests listened.

  New friends were made on this beautiful morning, people who attended enjoyed a great conversatoin over some food and refresments brought in by the Peace Islands Institute volunteers.

  We thank the Frist Reformed Church for making this event possible.

• October 02, 2011
• 2:25

  A Decade After 9/11: Incitement to Hatred and Violence On the Basis of Religion or Belief

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Peace Islands Institute New York organized a conference on the 10th anniversary in partnership with the Turkish Cultural Center at the Times Center on Sept. 28, 2011. Distinguished speakers discussed the theme "A Decade After 9/11: Incitement to Hatred and Violence On the Basis of Religion or Belief".

• September 28, 2011
• 16:29

  9/11 Commemoration Dinner

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute (formerly The Interfaith Dialog Center) organized a dinner on Wednesday September 21, 2011 in honor of the victims of 9/11 attacks. Close to 150 guests attended the dinner, including law enforcement officers, elected officers, academics from various fields, clergy and businessmen.

• September 22, 2011
• 17:36

  Into The Light: A Multifaith Conversation on 9/11

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Peace Islands Institute organized a panel discussion to honor the 10th anniversary of September 11th. The discussion, which was titled "Into The Light: A Multifaith Conversation on 9/11", was held at Princeton University on September 8th 2011. The program was co-sponsored by Fellowship In Prayer and Princeton University Muslim Life Program in the Office of Religious Life. Matthew Weiner, Associate Dean of Religious Life at Princeton University, and former Director for the Interfaith Center of New York, moderated the panel.

• September 16, 2011
• 16:15

  Ramadan Dinner at Christ Episcopal Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Christ Episcopal Church in Riverton hosted the IDC in a Ramadan Dinner on August 25th 2011. Everyone came together on this evening to break fast as a family. Fahrettin Kahraman recited the Adhan -Call to prayer- before breaking the fast. After the dinner prepared by the volunteers of the IDC, Erhan Yilmaz gave a brief speech on the month of “Ramadan”

  It was a wonderful evening well spent together, we Thank Rev. Richard C Wrede for making this event possible.

• September 12, 2011
• 14:25

  9/11 Commemorations

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  

  When Peace Islands Institute’s honorary president, Turkish Muslim scholar Fethullah Gulen, foresaw the importance of interfaith dialog among communities as well as among nations and initiated it in Turkey, it was 1994. It was the same year that he said 'there is no return from democracy’ when Muslims were questioned regarding their opinions about democracy. He was successful in his efforts to direct people’s attention, time, energy and money into education and dialog. While Gulen, and those inspired by him worked hard for implementing seeds of dialog, understanding and respect in Turkey; the catastrophic attacks of 9/11 took place in the US. The tragic events of 9/11 shifted the focus of interfaith dialog efforts from bringing people together in Turkey to repairing, at the community level, the damaged state of interfaith, interethnic, and inter-cultural relations in the US and in the global arena.

• September 10, 2011
• 1:43

  9/11 - A Decade Later

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  As we approach the tenth anniversary of September 11th, we, The Peace Islands Institute and its volunteers (formerly The Interfaith Dialog Center) would like to reflect upon and honor the loss of that tragic day and recognize tremendous acts of resilience and compassion that prevented even further disaster on 9/11 and since.

  Once again, we condemn the brutal terrorist attacks in the strongest terms. We believe that our nation must stand united against those who are involved with terrorism by any means, and plant seeds of fear and hatred in the community. As the Peace Islands Institute, we believe we must summon the spirit of dialogue, understanding, and respect, on an everyday basis, firmly and consistently, to grapple with extremists’ and terrorists’ vision of a world of fear and hatred.

  The events of September 11th were extremely tragic for many of us on a personal level as we lost our loved ones. While the 10th anniversary is a time of sorrow, we cannot disregard how communities around the nation and in New Jersey in particular, came together as one, demonstrating the strength of the human spirit after experiencing unimaginable loss.

  Peace Islands Institute took upon itself to be a leading force, organizing communities to come together, and getting to know and support each other at a time of fear, distress, and estrangement following the tragic events of 9/11. Communities from diverse religious, cultural, social, and economic backgrounds responded with tremendous enthusiasm, diligence and hard work to the Peace Islands’ mission and call. From the hospitality and ingenuity of New Jersey’s Law Enforcement members, to the selfless and understanding service of religious and educational communities, time and again we have seen our nation and State meet head-on the gravest of challenges. Once again, we have experienced that our ability to bounce back better and stronger from adversity comes down to our communities’ and civil society’s strength which can only be established through dialogue, understanding, and respect for each other. It is this resilience that we wish to honor and celebrate during the 10th anniversary.

  Resilient and compassionate communities are the foundation for a strong, wise, and vibrant nation. They are also our strongest assets when faced with further tragedy, ranging from economic, social, natural and man-made disasters. We must strengthen our relationships across communities to withstand, respond, and recover from catastrophic events, especially the ones that threaten the harmonious co-existence of our diverse backgrounds.

  As we mark this solemn anniversary, let us once again call upon the spirit of dialogue, understanding, and respect – necessary characteristics of resilient and compssioante communities. And let us show that dialogue and understanding are enduring virtues – not just for one day, but for every day.

  Levent Koç
  The Peace Islands Institute
  (formerly The Interfaith Dialog Center)

• September 07, 2011
• 18:38

  Ramadan Dinner at Notre Dame Church, North Caldwell

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  August 25th, 2011 the Notre Dame Church in North Caldwell, hosted the IDC in a memorable Ramadan Dinner. Guests from two faiths came together and broke their fast with a dinner brought in by the IDC. The guests enjoyed a beautiful dinner with friendly conversations, new friends were made.

  Dr. Levent Koc, gave a brief speech about the month of Ramadan before initially breaking the fast.

  We thank Fr. Anthony Randazzo the people at the Notre Dame Church for making this event possible.

• September 05, 2011
• 14:38

  Ramadan Dinner at Temple B'nai Or

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Temple B'nai in Morristown hosted the IDC in a Ramadan dinner on August 12th, 2011. Guests from the Temple and some Turkish American families came together to break the fast with a dinner provided by the IDC.

  Dr. Mesut Sahin gave a brief speech informing the guests about the month of "Ramadan".

  We thank Rabbi Mary Zamore for organizing the evening the dinner. All enjoyed friendly conversations and a delightful dinner. Jewish and Muslim families shared the table to meet each other and develop friendship. They exchanged each other's contact information and we do hope that we will come together on many more occasions.

• 13:39

  Ramadan Dinner at The Church of Atonement

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  On August 11, 2011, The Church of Atonement hosted the IDC in a Ramadan Dinner. People from the Church and Muslim families broke fast together on this wonderful evening. Everyone who attended enjoyed friendly conversations and dinner brought by the IDC volunteers.

  Mevlut Kirazli gave a brief speech to inform the guests about the month of "Ramadan".

  We thank, The Church of Atonement for having us that evening. It was a wonderful evening spent together.

• September 02, 2011
• 14:37

  Abraham's Table: Fasting and Feasting

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Princeton Theological Center hosted an Abraham’s table with the theme “Fasting and Feasting” on May 10, 2011.  Rabbi Adam Feldman, Sohaib Sultan and Sr. Miriam Macgillis shared their perspectives about the topic. They informed the guests about fasting and why we do it from their own religious perspectives.

  Rabbi Adam Feldman began by thanking the sponsors: Fellowship in Prayer and the Interfaith Dialog Center and also Dr. Joy Ohayia, who was the moderator of the event.  He started by saying “That we Jews love food. He talked about the special foods that are used on the holidays; and also talked about the rules and regulations of the Jewish religion during fasting. A full-day fast begins with sunset in the evening and continues through darkness of the next day. A minor fast day begins with the dawn and concludes at darkness. Fasting is claimed to influence God to act Graciously toward Israel. He talked about “Yom Kippur” which is a twenty-four-hour fast, with total abstinence from food and drink, the traditional worshippers spend the entire day in prayer. The fast is a spiritual cleansing, both on an individual and communal level.

  Sohaib Sultan, started by saying that in Islamic religion we begin with 'Selam aleykum'.  It is the month in which the Quran began its revelation to the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we celebrate it by fasting. The purpose of Ramadan is not to be devoured for one month but rather experience the climax devotion that has been proccsed before those 9 months. At the end of this month of fasting comes the Feast of the Breaking of the Fast. This is the first of the two main feasts of Islam. The second is the Feast of Sacrifice, and it is celebrated about two months after the end of Ramadan.

  Sr. Miriam Macgillis began by thanking everyone for the wonderful event. She mentioned how the foods of the earth have changed; now everything is filled with chemicals and about the genetic engineering of foods which God would have never done. She talked about the miracles and conditions of life.  Great Lent one basically becomes a vegetarian: no meats, no animal products. Stricter fasting days within Lent (the weekdays of Lent) additionally restrict olive oil and wine and Palm Sunday allow fish.

  Many guests attended this wonderful event, friendly conversations were shared and a great lunch was served. We thank the people of the Fellowship in Prayer and the Princeton Theological Center for making this beautiful event possible.

• August 29, 2011
• 18:42

  Special Health Care Needs for Children

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC Woman Gatherings hosted Nicole Pratt from SPAN on May 24 2011. She talked about "Health Advocacy: Accessing Health Coverage and Services for Children with Special Health Care Needs". Q&A followed the presentation and refresments were served at the end.

  Nicole Pratt is Parent Professional Development Staff Trainer at Statewide Parent Advocacy Network, Inc. The event took place at Ant Book Store and Cafe in Clifton.

• 18:29

  IDC Book Conversations Hosts Dr. Walter Wagner

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The IDC hosted Dr. Walter Wagner on May 21st 2011 at the Ant Bookstore in Clifton. He talked about his book "Opening the Qur'an: Introducing Islam's Holy Book". Guests who attended had many questions that Dr. Wagner happily answered. Tea and Refeshments were served, it was a wonderful evening. We thank Dr. Wagner for his presence.

• 18:21

  Ramadan Dinner at Calvary United Methodist Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The Calvary United Methodist Church in Dumont hosted the IDC in a Ramadan Dinner on August 21st 2011. Guests broke fast together on this memorable evening with the dinner brought in by the IDC.

  Dr. Levent Koc, CEO of the IDC gave a brief speech about the month of "Ramadan" before breaking fast.

  We thank the families who cooked and everyone at the Calvary United Methodist Church for letting us have such a wonderful evening. Everyone enjoyed a delicious meal with some great conversations.

• August 09, 2011
• 18:08

  Intercultural Turkey Trip July 16th-26th 2011

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC intercultural trip to Turkey took place between July 16-26th 2011. The group had the opportunity to see many historical sites as well as get to know the Turkish culture very closely. In addition to visiting important sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Blue Mosque, House of Virgin Mary, underground city and carved chapels in Cappadocia, the group enjoyed dinners with local families. The group also visited a newspaper, a dialogue foundation and a private school in Turkey. The cities that were visited on the trip were Istanbul, Izmir, Konya, Antalya, Cappadocia and Bursa.

• 18:08

  Intercultural Turkey Trip July 6th-16th 2011

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC intercultural trip to Turkey took place between July 6-16th 2011. The group had the opportunity to see many historical sites as well as get to know the Turkish culture very closely. In addition to visiting important sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Blue Mosque, House of Virgin Mary, underground city and carved chapels in Cappadocia, the group enjoyed dinners with local families. The group also visited a newspaper, a dialogue foundation and a private school in Turkey. The cities that were visited on the trip were Istanbul, Izmir, Konya, Antalya, Cappadocia and Bursa.

• August 03, 2011
• 16:09

  Intercultural Turkey Trip, July 17-27th

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC intercultural trip to Turkey took place between July 17-27th 2011. The group had the opportunity to see many historical sites as well as get to know the Turkish culture very closely. In addition to visiting important sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Blue Mosque, House of Virgin Mary, underground city and carved chapels in Cappadocia, the group enjoyed dinners with local families. The group also visited a newspaper, a dialogue foundation, auniversity and a private school in Turkey. The cities that were visited on the trip were Istanbul, Izmir, Konya, Antalya, Cappadocia and Ankara.

  The group included a state senator, an assemblyman and academics.

• July 27, 2011
• 7:53

  IDC Offers Condolences to the Victims, Families and all Norwegian People

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  As the IDC, we were shocked to hear the heinous terrorist attacks, which took place in Norway recently and would like to express our most heartfelt condolences to the victims and offer our deepest sympathy and prayers to their families and Norwegian people. We would also like to extend well wishes to the injured and wish them a speedy recovery.

  We ask God Almighty to give all affected solace and hope in these difficult days.

  We would like to stress that any terrorist activity, no matter who does it and for what purpose, is the greatest blow to peace, democracy and humanity. For this reason we never approve of terrorist activities. This last incident showed once again that terrorism has neither religion nor nationality. Terrorism and violent extremism should find no shelter or refuge in any ideology, political opinion or religion.

  We must unite as one human race against terrorism, violent extremism and murderous ideologies to prevent these types of attacks from recurring in the future.

  We also believe that 'dialogue' is one of the major medicines to overcome humanity's common ills. Our world's durability depends, to a great extent, on the promotion of dialogue. Establishment of dialog environments is a means to appreciate diverse opinions and eliminate the stereotypes often assigned to 'others'.

  IDC is committed to advance diversity, pluralism and multiculturalism in the society and lead the way for a transcultural generation in the future.

  

• July 14, 2011
• 15:23

  Intercultural Turkey Trip June 16th-26th 2011

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC intercultural trip to Turkey took place between June 16-26th 2011. The group had the opportunity to see many historical sites as well as get to know the Turkish culture very closely. In addition to visiting important sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Blue Mosque, House of Virgin Mary, underground city and carved chapels in Cappadocia, the group enjoyed dinners with local families. The group also visited a newspaper, a dialogue foundation and a private school in Turkey. The cities that were visited on the trip were Istanbul, Izmir, Konya, Denizli, Antalya, Cappadocia and Bursa.

• June 28, 2011
• 17:00

  Peace Islands Institute

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We are proud and thrilled to announce that IDC is growing, expanding and therefore it has needed to be reorganized. IDC has a new name now: Peace Islands Institute. So, IDC will serve as an Institute that will have different platforms. Peace Islands Institute, a NJ organization, will open branches in the neighboring states.

• June 19, 2011
• 5:45

  Peace Islands Institute

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We are proud and thrilled to announce that IDC is growing, expanding and therefore it has needed to be reorganized. IDC has a new name now: Peace Islands Institute. So, IDC will serve as an Institute that will have different platforms. Peace Islands Institute, a NJ organization, will open branches in the neighboring states.

• June 13, 2011
• 13:58

  Peace Islands Institute

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We are proud and thrilled to announce that IDC is growing, expanding and therefore it needs to be reorganized. IDC has a new name now: Peace Islands Institute. So, IDC will serve as an Institute that will have different platforms. Peace Islands Institute, a NJ organization, will open branches in the neighboring states.

• June 08, 2011
• 18:54

  Diversity Art & Essay Contest 2011

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC Awards Ceremony congratulated the winners of the first Diversity Art & Essay Contest at the Marriot Hotel in Hannover, Whippany on June 5th. Awards were handed out by Prosecutor of Morris County Robert Bianchi, Sheriff of Passaic County Richard H. Berdnik, Bergen County Executive Kathleen A. Donovan, Hunterdon County Prosecutor J. Patrick Barnes . IDC gave out more than $10,000 in total

• June 07, 2011
• 16:36

  IDC Awards 2011

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Interfaith Dialog Center’s 4th Annual Award Ceremony was held on June 5th at the Hannover Marriot Hotel. Over 200 guests and many dignitaries participated in celebrating multiculturalism and diversity. Interfaith Dialog Center is a non-profit organization established in 2003 in New Jersey to foster dialogue and understanding between faiths, cultures and civilizations. IDC endeavors to make New Jersey a stronger and more prosperous place by advancing the causes of peace, cross-cultural tolerance and human dignity.

• 16:36

  4th Annual Award Ceremony

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC’s 4th Annual Award Ceremony was held on June 5th at Hannover Marriot Hotel. Over 200 guests and many dignitaries participated in celebrating multiculturalism and diversity. IDC endeavors to promote dialog and cross-cultural tolerance among various ethnic groups in New Jersey.

• June 06, 2011
• 17:50

  Diversity is Our Strength

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  By Prof. Vincent N. Parrillo, William Paterson University
  
  Keynote Speech at Annual IND Dialogue and Unity Dinner
  Hyatt Regency New Brunswick Hotel, November 14, 2010
  
  The United States of America is one of the more significant social inventions in world history. It was invented more than 230 years ago by those European colonists and their descendants and by African slaves and native peoples.  Through blood, sweat, and tears, they combined their individual lives to build and shape a new nation.  In doing so, they gave this country a particular identity, an identity as a country dedicated to diversity, a nation of different peoples living together as one—e pluribus unum—from the many, one.
  
  The United States is far from a perfect society.  We have more acts of violence, including homicides, than other developed countries.  Often the political and ideological disagreements among population segments not only reach levels of complete mistrust of the other, but also escalate to anger and name-calling.  Even so, we are a country where nearly 311 million people speak a common language, find ways to live in peace with each other, and maintain that cherished democratic heritage passed down to us through a dozen generations.
  
  Most Americans cannot trace their ancestors to those colonists who joined together in 1776.  Yet, from them—as numerous historians have noted—we have a precious legacy.  Most importantly, we benefit from a long-standing cultural value about equality for all, engrained in a set of laws that the entire population lives by.  Flaws and contradictions in fulfilling this concept exist, of course, but these do not diminish the ideal for which we strive.  All of the diverse peoples of the United States accept that ideal.  In fact, many left their homeland to live in a land where equality is the ideal.  Nevertheless, the 19th-century cultural homogeneity existing at the time of this nation’s beginnings is gone forever.  So too is the belief in the romantic myth that we are a melting pot.
  
  We Americans, who in the very beginning were an invention, are still being reinvented, and this process of reinvention appears to be a continuing, never-ending reality.  Three waves of immigration have not just successively altered the population composition of the United States. They have strengthened the nation and given the American temperament a livelier and far richer national personality than could ever have existed without them.
  
  Even when immigration was almost exclusively from northern and western Europe to the New World, the colonies were still a pluralist society, reflecting the cultural diversity of the European continent. Many of those first colonial settlements were religiously and ethnically diverse; New Amsterdam, New Belgium, New Sweden, New Orleans, and New Smyrna are but a few examples. New Amsterdam was itself a pluralistic settlement, with eighteen different languages spoken there daily in 1660.  Even the English settlements varied, such as the Calvinists in Massachusetts, the Congregationalists in Connecticut, the Presbyterians in New York, the Catholics in Maryland, and the Anglicans in Virginia, each of them suspicious and intolerant of the others.
  
  The success of Washington's troops in defeating the English came partly from the multicultural elite who played key roles in military training, strategy, and leadership. Baron von Steuben (Prussia), Generals Pulaski and Kosciuszko (Poland), the Marquis de Lafayette and Baron de Kalb (France) were the most prominent volunteers from Europe who were of great value to the American cause.
  
  Just as the military leadership consisted of non-English individuals, so too did the ranks of fighting men. Over 5,000 Blacks served in the colonial forces, fighting in every major battle from Lexington in 1775 to Yorktown in 1781. Some distinguished themselves in combat, such as Peter Salem and Salem Poore at the Battle of Bunker Hill, and Lemuel Haynes at the Battle of Fort Ticonderoga. James Lafayette, a Virginia slave, was so effective in gaining strategic intelligence about the English for Lafayette's troops that the Virginia Assembly purchased his freedom as a reward.
  
  Numerous non-English-speaking ethnic communities recruited their own companies or regiments, staffed with their own officers. Soon they mixed with other ethnic groups or those of English ancestry as they united against a common enemy.  Eventually, the cultural barriers and suspicions among groups faded as they shared common dangers, common hardships, and ultimately common victories.
  
  United by their nationalism after winning their war for independence, the colonists put aside their prejudices by institutionalizing tolerance and establishing a bedrock principle of American culture: separation of church and state. Since no single religion dominated and no one group was powerful enough to coerce the others, freedom of religion was more an act of practical necessity than of democratic ideals. A product of religious pluralism, this principle of separation of church and state is one cherished legacy from America’s multicultural past.
  
  Many of those early Americans were adventurers, debtors, the poor, or the politically and religiously oppressed. In tragic irony, as they sought the freedom and opportunity in the New World denied to them in the Old World, they brought over thousands of Africans in bondage and victimized the Native Americans already living here.
  
  Despite the significant role of Africans and Native Americans in U.S. history, it would be almost 200 years after the birth of the United States before their descendants could begin enjoying the same rights and opportunities secured by the whites.
  
  Yet, even though black and red Americans would strive for justice for generations, they were able to do so in a country that not only had a Constitution, but a conscience, to which an appeal could be made.  This is a triumph of the idealism of freedom that is forever a tribute to the human spirit.  The ideals set forth in the nation’s foundation have ever since remained the promise to each generation born here and the beacon of hope to those who come.
  
  For many who have come, the passage to America is the hardest ordeal.  For centuries the ocean voyage—that trial by wind and wave, hunger and sickness—was so intense an experience that few immigrants ever forgot it. Although most simply arrive by jet today, for some the passage can be equally harrowing to those steamship voyages of yesteryear. Many older Vietnamese in the United States have a tale of walking across Cambodia or fleeing Vietnam by boat, of attacks by ruthless pirates and long months in a refugee camp. The Cambodians have their holocaust; the Haitians their natural disasters; the Cubans their escape from a stagnant, repressive society; the Mexicans their encounters with the feared La Migra, the border patrol; and the Muslims their fleeing repression and random killings.
  
  But no danger seems too great, no obstacle too large to stop those who are determined to come. First the name—America—begins to circulate in towns and villages. Then the idea takes hold, and the flood begins. Millions of people forsake the lands of their ancestors, and give up old dreams and old traditions to pursue new dreams and new traditions. For most native-born Americans, America has been a gift long since given; for each new arrival though, it is fresh and dynamic and not to be squandered. Each new immigrant thus re-creates the American Dream.
  
  That dream found expression in a renowned physicist who was the son of an immigrant blacksmith and in a famous composer who was the son of an illiterate immigrant.  It will find expression again in today’s immigrants who bring precious little when they arrive—except for their greatest gift—and that is themselves.  You never know where the next idea is coming from.  And, since a nation’s greatest resource lies in its people, its diversity presents an even greater treasure trove of possibilities.
  
  And, you know, these immigrants pay us the highest compliment by coming here.  In essence, they are saying, “I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”  And (if you1ll forgive the double negative) they didn't come to join nothing; they came to join something—us at our best, us as they imagined us after a thousand movies and television shows and books and reports from relatives. Yes, they come to join us, not to keep separate from us. It may take some time, longer than some Americans' patience but, for most, that integration into the dominant culture does occur.
  
  And when immigrants arrive, some kind of magic happens. They do extraordinary things, things they couldn't do at home. They work long hours and take risks, carving out new markets for goods and services. They go to school and pursue careers impossible to have in their homelands. They build, buy property, start businesses and become entrepreneurs. In most of our major cities, the new immigrants—many of them shopkeepers—run a whole level of the city. Nationwide the small shops that the immigrants run in our towns and cities create thousands of jobs and contribute billions to the economy. In return, the newcomers get the possibility of realizing their dreams of freedom and a better life for themselves and their children.
  
  In the past two decades, the United States has experienced the biggest flow of immigrants in the memory of almost any living American. It has recently absorbed twice as many immigrants as the rest of the world combined. Not since the first decade of the twentieth century have so many new immigrants become Americans. About 9.7 million legal immigrants came in the 1990s and another 10.3 million in the last decade. Unlike previous immigrant waves bringing mostly Europeans, the current immigration is mostly from the Developing World. Now, 33 percent of the new immigrants come from Asia and 41 percent from Latin America. Immigration from Europe, historically the principal source of newcomers, has fallen to 13 percent.  India alone sends far more than England, Germany, Ireland and Italy put together, the nations that for the past 300 years furnished the great majority of immigrants to America. As another example, in the last decade more than 48,000 Turkish immigrants arrived, the largest number in that country’s modern state history.
  
  New ethnic neighborhoods are transforming our cities. Previously homogeneous suburbs are now infused with first-generation Arabic, Asian, and Hispanic Americans. New faces are turning up in our offices, shops, and factories. New languages buzz in our schools. This bubbling stew may seem strange to some, but until immigration was all but cut off in 1924, it was the normal condition of America.
  
  We should not worry about the arrival of so many immigrants, for they come, as I said earlier, to be part of us. Despite the fears of alarmists, we are in no danger of becoming a Tower of Babel in the 21st century.  Studies show that the new immigrants learn English as readily as previous immigrants. Their children learn in school not just U.S. history but the moral and philosophical underpinnings of their new country. They don't just learn about the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. They learn about the reasons why we fought those wars, about our deep-rooted principles of equality, liberty, opportunity and democracy. They learn the meaning of the civil rights movement and its importance in seeking the implementation of those principles too long denied to some Americans.
  
  By learning what we were, they learn what we are, what they now are, and what they are becoming. They become part of the ever¬-changing American kaleidoscope, that wonderful mixture of colors, religions and national origins that has always been the essence of U.S. society.
  
  One aspect of that diversity, religion, increased with the successive waves of immigration, as the United States changed from an almost exclusively Protestant nation into a country of three major faiths: Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish. Since religion is so closely intertwined with ethnicity, current migration patterns offer clues about the future religious preferences of Americans.
  
  Latin America and the Philippines are mostly Catholic and, as major sources of new immigrants now accounting for almost half the total, they will help increase the proportion of Roman Catholics. By 2050, Catholics may increase from 25 percent to 28 percent. They might even constitute the majority of residents in such heavily populated states as California, Florida, and Texas.
  
  Another rapidly growing religious group is the Muslims. Appealing to many African, Middle Eastern, and Asian Americans, Islam is becoming a more noticeable presence. More than 1,200 mosques now pepper the American landscape, about two-thirds built since 1981. Within a few years, Muslims will surpass Jews to become the third largest religious denomination in the United States, and by 2050, they may account for three percent of the total American population.  Other Eastern religions—particularly Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs—should also continue to grow in the U.S. By 2050, they may comprise two percent of American society.
  
  Protestants, on the other hand, will likely decrease to below 50 percent. Mainstream denominations seem destined to decline the most, as fundamentalist denominations continue to gain new converts. Religious diversity in thus becoming ever more pronounced throughout the land as we approach a point when all faiths with be minorities in the United States.
  
  What we are experiencing today in large-scale immigration is part of the continuing dynamics of a nation of immigrants changing its demographics, yet remaining true to its core culture. Despite fears about divisiveness, the mainstream group is more inclusive than ever before.  Despite concerns over language retention, today's immigrants want to learn English and do so no more slowly than past immigrants, and perhaps even more quickly because of telecommunications and the mass media. Despite nativist anxieties about nonwesterners not blending in, this group has demonstrated its desire to integrate by having the highest naturalized citizenship rates among all of the largest sending countries.
  
  Let me conclude by saying that diversity in America is neither new nor a threat to the stabilization and integration of American society. It is an old, continuing presence that strengthens not weakens, enriches not diminishes, nourishes not drains, a civilization whose strength and character, whose potential and promise, whose achievements and influence worldwide, have long reflected, and resulted from, the diversity of its people.
  
  It is absolutely true: E pluribus unum.
  
  Thank you.

• June 02, 2011
• 15:42

  The Necessity of Interfaith Dialog: A Muslim Perspective

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC attended the Greater New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church annual conference to deliver a speech on Interfaith Dialog in Islamic Perspective on June 1st 2011.

• May 12, 2011
• 14:04

  Building the Beloved Community: An Interfaith Dialogue

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Friday, May 6th 2011, A conference was held at the New Brunswick Theological Seminary on "Building the Beloved Community: An Interfaith Dialogue".

• May 11, 2011
• 10:25

  EastWest Institute honors Gülen with 2011 EWI Peace Building Award

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  The EastWest Institute (EWI) honored well-respected Turkish intellectual and scholar IDC's Honorary President Fethullah Gülen with its 2011 EWI Peace Building Award at an awards dinner held for his contribution to world peace.

• May 04, 2011
• 15:11

  Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Thursday, April 28th 2011, at the Hilton Parsippany hotel, more than hundred and fifty people came together to celebrate the Law Enforcement Dinner hosted by the Interfaith Dialog Center. The ceremony was aimed at honoring those who work tirelessly to protect and serve the citizens of New Jersey.

• May 03, 2011
• 13:59

  Value of Women in Our Community

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Sunday, May 1st, The IDC hosted its Annual Program "Value of Women in Our Community".  The topic was "Contributions of Women to Education"

• May 02, 2011
• 18:19

  Bin Laden is Dead

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  As we all have been informed, Osama bin Laden was finally killed by US forces. The attacks plotted by him and his followers on innocent people made millions suffer directly and indirectly over a decade.

• April 25, 2011
• 17:55

  Conference: Building the Beloved Community

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Building the Beloved Community can take on many forms and shapes as faith communities seek to work together for the common good. This conference looks at selected themes of community building from multifaith perspectives.

• April 14, 2011
• 14:44

  Asw. Joan Voss lectured about Autism

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC Women Gatherings hosted Asw. Joan Voss, 38th District, on Wednesday, April 13th 2011. She gave a lecture on "Autism" which is a is disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior.

• March 25, 2011
• 15:16

  Turkey Trip Grand Reunion 2010

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Feb 27th 2011, The IDC hosted it's annual Turkey Trip Grand Reunion. Turkey trip attendees from past IDC Intercultural Trips attended the event.

• 14:12

  Friendship Gathering at St. Paul's Lutheran Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Sunday, March 13th 2011,St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Teaneck, hosted the IDC in a Friendship Gathering. IDC speakers informed the guests on what the IDC is all about. Food was provided by the IDC, many guests attended, it was a wonderful event.

• March 24, 2011
• 16:08

  IDC Welcomes NJ Homeland Security Director, Charles B. McKenna

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  On Wednesday, March 23^rd 2011, The IDC hosted NJ Homeland Security Director, Charles B. McKenna.  His topic for the Luncheon was "Personal Preparedness and Planning".

• March 22, 2011
• 19:43

  Black History Month, Dr. Clement Price

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Wednesday, Feb 23rd IDC hosted, Dr. Clement Price.  Dr. Price gave a speech on "Black History Month".

• 14:33

  IDC Woman Gathering hosts Dr. Antoinette Ellis-Williams

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  On March 20, 2011 the IDC hosted a Woman Gathering where Dr. Antonitte Ellis-Williams from NJ City University was the host speaker. Dr. Ellis-Williams spoke about the Black Womanist Model in Human Rights Movement. Dr. Ellis-Williams attracted a lot of attention while giving paradigms of famous names like Maria Stewart, Ida B. Wells, Fannie Lou Hamer, Shirley Chisholm as democratic models of liberation. The audience enjoyed the inspirational presentation of Dr. Ellis and were encouraged to ask questions following the presentation. Everyone was eager to meet each other while enjoying the delicious Turkish food before Dr. Ellis-William's presentation started.

• 13:23

  "Basics of Islam" at Pennington Library

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Sunday, March 20th 2011, Diane Miller from the Pennington Library invited the IDC for a disscusion on the "Basics of Islam".  Speaker, Dr. Levent Koc delivered the speech on the topic. He also shared with the guests; what the IDC is, as well as the programs that they hold. Q&A followed the speech.
  
  It was a very educational experience. We thank Diane Miller for the invitatoin.

• March 17, 2011
• 17:00

  Friendship Gathering at Temple Shalom

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Temple Shalom in Succasunna, NJ hosted the IDC in a Friendship Gathering on Feb 27th, 2001. Speaker Dr. Levent Koç, CEO of the IDC, rose up and spoke about very briefly the religon "Islam", interfaith dialogue from Islamic perspective as well as talked about IDC programs. Guests enjoyed food and great conversations at the tables. It was a wonderful event, we thank the Temple Shalom for the invitation.

• 14:35

  Friendship Gathering at Wyoming Presbyterian Church, Millburn

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Wyoming Presbyterian Church in Millburn hosted the IDC in a Friendship Gathering on Sunday March 13th 2011.  Speaker, Dr. Levent Koç, CEO of the IDC went up and spoke about "Islam" and shared his knowledge with the guests. He also showed a brief IDC video on what the IDC is all about. Food was served, people enjoyed great conversations and made new friends. We thank the Wyoming Presbyterian Church for hosting this program and IDC members.

• March 11, 2011
• 14:38

  Earthquake in Japan

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We, the Turkish American Muslim Community, were shocked to hear of the devastating earthquake that took place in Japan, in the morning of March 11, 2011. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims of the earthquake who lost their lives, their homes, and their livelihoods. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been wounded by this terrible quake. We ask God Almighty to give them solace and hope in the difficult days yet to come. We wish Japan an earliest recovery, materially and spiritually.

• March 04, 2011
• 18:06

  Friendship Gathering at Grace Episcopal Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  On Sunday Feb 20th 2011, Grace Episcopal Church in Pemberton, NJ hosted the Interfaith Dialog Center in a Friendship Gathering. Dr. Levent Koc, CEO of the Interfaith Dialog Center, talked about IDC programs and showed a brief video on the IDC. People came together for a great conversation and for some good food made by the IDC volunteers. We thank Rev. Jane Brady for the Invitation.

• February 28, 2011
• 18:01

  2nd Annual Diversity Art & Essay Contest

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We would like to thank all of the contestants that particpated in the Second Annual Diversity Art & Essay Contest, we thank you all for your time and effort. Here is the list of winners.

• 18:01

  Diversity Art & Essay Contest Winners

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  We would like to thank all of the contestants that particpated in the Second Annual Diversity Art & Essay Contest, we thank you all for your time and effort. Here is the list of winners.

• February 25, 2011
• 20:28

  Friendship Gathering at the Church of the Messiah

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  On Sunday, Feb 6th 2011 The Church of the Messiah in Chester, NJ hosted an IDC Friendship Gathering. Wonderful Conversations were shared, people enjoyed the food and the topics that were talked about. We thank Rev. Margaret Otterburn for inviting us and hosting an IDC program.

• February 18, 2011
• 18:32

  Abraham Table at Doane Academy -Peace

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Doane Academy in River Bank, NJ, hosted an Abrahams Table on Tuesday, Feb 15, 2010.  It was a very nice atmosphere, music played by the students and a lunch provided by the Interfaith Dialog Center. That was only the beginning. There were 3 Speakers, and their topic was "Peace". Each speaker rose up and shared what peace was in their religion.

• February 04, 2011
• 18:19

  Balancing Civil Liberties and National Security

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC hosted Paul Fishman, U.S Attorney for NJ for a luncheon on January 25th to talk about "Balancing Civil Liberties and National Security". He started his speech with compliments to IDC. He said he learned a lot about the IDC when he was invited to the Iftar dinner during the summer. He thanked the IDC for the wonderful work that they had been doing to encourage dialog, promote understanding among many diverse groups in our state. The IDC with all of its programs is making a difference in NJ on the way that people listen to each other. He greatly appreciates the IDC.

  In his speech he talked about the 8.7 million people living in NJ. Twenty percent of that number is foreign born.  “We are the most densely populated state; there is a huge amount of diversity. All of that means, this is an exciting, interesting, stimulating, rich and wonderful place to live”.  With all the different cultures living in NJ it also brings diversity conflict, chance of misunderstanding is present, and the potential for an ugly encounter is big.

• January 31, 2011
• 17:11

  Individualized Education Plans

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Latest IDC lecture was held on January 25th 2011 at Ant Bookstore in Clifton. Nicole Pratt, a Parent Professional Development Staff Trainer, from Statewide Parent Advocacy Network, delivered the lecture on "Individualized Education Plan and Measurable Goals".

• 16:57

  Interfaith Leadership in Divisive Times

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Episcopal Diocese of Newark invited IDC's CEO Levent Koc to Annual Diocesan Convention to deliver a speech on "Interfaith Leadership in Divisive Times" on January 28th.

• 16:44

  Rumi Night

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC in cooperation with ANT Bookstore & Cafe organized a Rumi Night, a spiritual feast of Rumi and Sufi music on Friday January 28th, 2011.

  Dr. Maboud Ansari of William Paterson University read poems from Masnavi in Farsi, the original language of Masnavi, and provided their translation in English.

  Hafiz Ismail Cimen, a master of Sufi music, and his friends performed select pieces from the classical Turkish sufi music tradition.

• January 25, 2011
• 20:38

  Noah's Ark

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  Reformed Church of Highland Park hosted an Abraham' Table on January 23rd, 2011 together with new friends from Muslim, Jewish, and Christian faiths! The food was absolutely marvelous, so tasty and healthful, and attractive. It was so nice to try new dishes. People ate things new to them and enjoyed discussions with the people around them about the historic and religious significance of some of the food items.
  
  Adventurous discovery did not stop after food.  As religious leaders from each faith spoke about lessons in the Noah story, people had a wide variety of comments and questions.  It was so great to sit and listen to each other, ask questions, get to know each other, break down some of our stereotypes, find what we have in common, celebrate our differences, and enjoy being together as the human family and God's family.

  Speakers:
  Mr. Shafik Malik, Stephanie Kaper-Dale, Seth Kaper-Dale.
  

• January 24, 2011
• 16:37

  Tolerance, intolerance, interfaith relations

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  New Jersey Council of Churches invited the Ceo. of the Interfaith Dialog Center Dr. Levent Koc, to give a speech on theair annual meeting on on Saturday, January 15th 2011.

• January 20, 2011
• 17:02

  Abrabam's Table at Caldwell United Methodist Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  United Methodist Church in Caldwell hosted an Abraham's Table on January 19^th, 2011. We started the day of with a Turkish lunch which was provided by the IDC, which everyone enjoyed very much.  After the lunch Rev. Jeff Markay put on a 2009 documentary entitled “Talking Through Walls”, which was about the struggle of building a Mosque in Voorhees, NJ and how the Interfaith Coalition worked together as an community on making it happen.

• 16:04

  Intercultural Turkey Trip Dec 28th-Jan 6th 2011

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC Intercultural trip to Turkey took place between Dec 28th-Jan 6th, 2011. The group had opportunity to see many historical sites as well as get to know the Turkish culture very closely. In addition to visiting important sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Blue Mosque, House of Virgin Mary, underground city and carved chapels in Cappadocia, the group enjoyed dinners with local families. The group also visited a newspaper, a dialogue foundation and a private school in Turkey. The cities that were visited on the trip were Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Konya, and Cappadocia.

• January 18, 2011
• 18:19

  Intercultural Turkey Trip Dec 28th-Jan 6th 2011

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

  IDC Intercultural trip to Turkey took place between Dec 28th-July 6th, 2011. The group had opportunity to see many historical sites as well as get to know the Turkish culture very closely. In addition to visiting important sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Blue Mosque, House of Virgin Mary, underground city and carved chapels in Cappadocia, the group enjoyed dinners with local families. The group also visited a newspaper, a dialogue foundation and a private school in Turkey. The cities that were visited on the trip were Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Konya, and Cappadocia.

• January 04, 2011
• 14:34

  Abraham’s Joy at First Reformed Church

   » ‎ IDC Interfaith Dialog Center

   The old patriarch Abraham would have had reason to rejoice, had he seen several of his children peacefully united at First Reformed Church during a special coffee hour and luncheon on Sunday, December 19. Musicians from the Turkish Interfaith Dialog Center and the Adult Choir of First Reformed Church had invited a good following from both faith traditions for an afternoon of singing and listening to readings. Traditional Turkish instruments and the church’s own harpsichord added to the great atmosphere. And afterwards, sharing food from both traditions, we concluded the event with endless table talks. It is hard to leave when you are with friends!

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