Pluralism Sunday 2010

For many religions, the beginning of spring is a holy time in the year. While I respect all religions’ holy days and the people that observe them, I do not feel any particular affiliation to any one religion. However, like a lot of people, I would still like to find a unique way to celebrate all of the world’s faiths and the changing of the seasons. If you’re like me, you’re in for a treat!

On May 2, 2010, hundreds of churches, and thousands of people around the world will be joining hands in celebration of religious diversity. Initiated by The Center for Progressive Christianity, Pluralism Sunday is observed every year on the first Sunday in May. Not only is the objective of Pluralism Sunday to celebrate our interfaith world, but also to honour the unique path each religion has to “God”.

Over the years, congregations around the world have celebrated Pluralism Sunday in a variety of ways. Some churches explore elements of other world faiths in their sermons, while many feature guest speakers and singers from other faith traditions. Another common element of Pluralism Sunday is exchanges with other faith communities, providing the participants with an opportunity to visit each other’s house of worship.

Last year, the Congrgational Church UCC of Belmont, California invited Imam Abdul Anwar of the Yaseen Foundation Mosque, Dr. Miriam Zimmerman of Notre Dame de Namur University, and Rev. Kristi Denham of the church as preachers. In Los Angeles at Mt. Hollywood Congregational UCC, the students of the Shanti Interfaith Choir form the University of Southern California performed during their Pluralism Sunday worship. And in Laramie, Wyoming, the golden rule was read from 6 different religious traditions at Paul’s Church.

While I believe that religious diversity should be celebrated every day of the year, interfaith experiences like Pluralism Sunday provide a unique opportunity for people of faith to have a more intimate awareness of other world religions. Even the most loyal followers of faith have said that being involved in interfaith work and learning about different religions has helped them grow closer to “God”, deeper in compassion, and develop a deeper understanding of their own religion.

Any and all churches are welcome to join in on this year’s Pluralism Sunday celebrations. To sign up your congregation to be listed as a participating church for 2010, email Rev. Jim Burklo, Pluralism Sunday Coordinator for The Center for Progressive Christianity.

Website: www.pluralismsunday.org