Middleton to celebrate community's religious diversity

Middleton to celebrate community's religious diversity
By Teresa Peneguy Paprock
Niche editor, Capital Newspapers
Around Town - Middleton, November 22, 2006
www.madison.com/features/aroundtown/pdf/atm_20.pdf

One of the joys of living in a diverse community like Middleton is getting
to know your neighbors, whether they're Christian, Jewish, Hindu or Moslem.
In an effort to promote peace and goodwill between those of different
religious faiths, Middleton will celebrate the state's Ninth Annual
Interfaith Awareness Week in December. Kurt Sonnentag, of the Middleton City
Council, will read an official proclamation at 2 p.m.Sunday, Dec. 10 in the
Archer Room at the Middleton Public Library.

Middleton's the location for the keynote program of the weeklong event.
Representatives of Middleton's Christian, Sikh, Baha'i, and Sufi
communities, and more, will be on hand during Sunday's event, which will
feature displays, discussion, presentations, singing and dance.

Coordinator Rev. John-Brian Paprock, a Middleton resident and priest at Holy
Transfiguration Orthodox Church, says Dec.10 is also Human Rights Day.

"The idea of Interfaith Awareness Week is to demonstrate that we can get
along with people that don't believe what we do," says Paprock, who has been
involved in interfaith activities in the area for more than a decade."The
activities are to help us become aware of what others believe so we don't
mistake what others do out of ignorance or prejudice."

Paprock says that some people are uncomfortable with interfaith expression
"because they think they will lose their faith. But what actually happens
when we learn about other faiths is that our own faith is confirmed."

Paprock points out that in Middleton,"There are a wide variety of
Christians, as well as people who are Jewish, Baha'i and Hindu. We even have
a Sikh Gurdwara here. Middleton has a very diverse population. Sauk Trail
Elementary School is one of the most ethnically diverse schools in the area,
and when you attend their cultural events you meet people of a variety of
religious beliefs."

The focus of the Sunday event is "What it is to be a 'good neighbor' -
especially appropriate in the Good Neighbor City,"he says."Interfaith
activities fill in a gap. Ethnic, language and spiritual identities manifest
themselves in the subcultures of society, including here in Middleton."

We used to think of the United States as "a melting pot, where people's
cultures combined and became the same,"says Paprock."But more and more, we
are acknowledging the uniqueness of individuals. Our differences are as
important as our similarities."

Events honoring different faith traditions are being held throughout the
Madison area during the week, with a special observance to be held at noon
on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at the Wisconsin Capitol building.

For more information on Interfaith Awareness Week, or to participate in
activities, call 236-9622.

Middleton Proclamation (Draft - confirmed at Middleton City Council on
December 5, 2006)
THE CITY OF MIDDLETON OFFICE OF THE MAYOR A Proclamation
WHEREAS, Wisconsin has a long history of celebrating the diversity of
belief; and
WHEREAS, Wisconsin has been a leader in human rights throughout 159 years of
statehood; and
WHEREAS, the City of Middleton has been the "Good Neighbor"leader in the
state throughout the 150 years of its history; and
WHEREAS, December 10,2006 is Human Rights Day designated by the United
Nations and the 59thanniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights, which states in Article 18 that "Everyone has the right to freedom
of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change
his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with
others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in
teaching, practice, worship and observance;"and
WHEREAS, the State has developed great spiritual and religious diversity and
diverse beliefs have played an important role in the development of our
State; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of diversity diminishes no one, but enriches
everyone; and
WHEREAS, we affirm the right of every person to believe and act according to
their beliefs as long as it does not infringe upon the rights of others; and

WHEREAS, interfaith and multifaith efforts of different churches and faith
groups have a rich history in the city; and
WHEREAS, interfaith and multifaith coalitions, dialogues and activities
continue to grow in importance locally, regionally, nationally and
internationally; and
WHEREAS, Madison, the Capitol of the State of Wisconsin, is located on an
isthmus, which is considered a place of peace and reconciliation; and
WHEREAS, December 2006 holds holy days of many religious and faith groups;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Doug Zwank, Mayor of Middleton, do hereby proclaim
December 10-16,2006 as INTERFAITH AWARENESS WEEK in the City of Middleton
and encourage citizens to learn more about each others' beliefs in the
spirit of community.

Learning from Interfaith Awareness - Closing remarks for IAW9

IAW9 – Closing Celebration – Monona, Wisconsin

 

For theme: Tolerance and Understanding

Closing of 9^th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

 

Learning from Interfaith Awareness

By Rev Fr John-Brian Paprock

 

Delivered December 16, 2006 at Monona Public Library

 

 

If there is an inherent balance and harmony in the natural world, regardless of how it came to be, and I am only a small part of the natural world, then why do I keep bumping into others?    I don’t mean in the synchronistic “hello” at the supermarket or post office.  Whose fault is that?  I mean a metaphoric push and shove, tug and shake, that seems to be going on constantly - offending, defending, assuming, prejudging and sometimes outright hating.  I assume this can be done in ignorance as accidental stumbles do happen, but we all recognize the greater harm that is done by those that know better; those that act with understanding and purpose.

 

The difficulty is maybe I’m “not the one out of synch” – at least not always. If I am, then my personal faith practice of the tradition of my spiritual ancestors can give me guidance and correction.  If I am not, then what?

 

I can act with love and compassion when I am “bumped into” whether that is physically, emotionally, intellectually, or spiritually – whether it is intended or not.

 

In Orthodoxy, we go to God for our personal propensity to knock into others and remain out-of-balance.  But it seems that the whole of this world is out of balance, and it is easy for others to bump me out from the good that I might do.  Sometimes fear drives me toward the less compassionate response, the self-indulgent sort.  It seems most of the people prefer to hunker down and isolate. It easier to be alone or isolated than to be bruised and bloodied in the spiritual anarchy that seems to dominate.

 

What is true for an individual can also be said for groups of people, even nations, most especially, and perhaps most problematic, is that the troubles of society can happen in small groups, churches, religious and spiritual communities – but are wrapped in the guise of high spoken morality with words like, love, truth, unity, harmony, peace, etc.

 

Perhaps in a signal of our puny efforts and mistaken focus, throughout Holy Orthodoxy, there are chanted prayers for peace – we pray for everyone, everywhere.  One of the great Russian saints, Seraphim of Sarov, said that “when we find inner peace, thousands around us will be saved.”  An elder once told me that the experience of peace and love are never personal.  He also told me that it is also a sin to cause another to sin.  My spiritual elders and ancestors seemed to understand that we are in this all together.

 

Nevertheless, it seems that matters of spirituality and religious practice have been relegated to personal activities. Freedom of belief sometimes breaks down to “leave me alone” and everyone in families with members of diverse faiths, which is a growing population in America, has had to do battle on the frontiers of  family interfaith events, whether they were intended to be frontiers or not.  In this era, this is a wondrous development. Not the family fights, but rather the objective allowance for each to come to the knowledge of the truth in their own way and in their own time.

 

This means, over the course of recent decades (perhaps a few centuries) that a marketplace of religious and spiritual groups has been developed.  In this marketplace, there is often great competition for numbers.  That is, there is a pervading cultural belief that the more people in a group, the more desirable (and therefore closer to God) they must be.  Cynically, it could be said that it is more materialistic than that – numbers translate to dollars in the basket…

 

Often the decisions to adhere to one particular faith tradition or another have little to do with fundamental teachings anymore.  In a recent study, the number one reason for people to leave their faith community was that they didn’t like another family.  The next was that the programming didn’t fit their schedules or inclinations. Much further down the list was any creed or doctrine. It seems to have become a small factor for attending anywhere.  Yet, it is a common desire for a spiritual home in this world that causes people to go anywhere, even when superficiality has become a dominant decision-making force.

 

With all the individuality of modern culture, the pervading desire is to “fit in;” to belong somewhere, anywhere.  With the marketplace that has been created, religion and spirituality become as commodities to be bought and sold, traded in lots or individually packaged. It IS easier for us to pick and choose, discarding the “stuff” we don’t like. The rewards of a deeper spiritual commitment seem to pale in comparison to the apparent richness of choice.

 

Like a so many markets (clothing, grocery, electronics, etc), how many regular customers, especially exclusive consumers, become the sign of success. All of the sudden, numbers become the way to keep score in religious and spiritual matters. This has bred a sinister exclusivism that works at the superficial aspects of faith and spirituality – where packaging and promotion dominate the agenda; where the ends justify the means; where identifying your competition is done to exploit their weaknesses (and if they have none, then it is where “stuff” is made up to keep the numbers loyal, fearful of the competition).

 

This has always been a strange obsession of humanity – “us” verses “them.” 

 

May we never be so obsessed with another’s faith tradition or practice (or lack of any) that we forget the fundamental benevolent teachings of our own.  It seems silly perhaps to think that any adherent to any of the great religions and spiritual practices of the world could spend so much time practicing the antithesis of their own fundamental teachings.  One teaching that is shared is the golden rule that sparkles in its universality and shines in its practicality.  I am often reminded of what a kind old Russian Orthodox monk, with his long white beard, once told me: “It is more important to be Christian than to make sure everyone else is Christian – that is more than enough to keep one occupied in this life.” 

 

If I believe in the sincerity and integrity of Holy Orthodoxy, the Christian tradition I practice, why should I be fearful of dialogue and discussion with others who believe differently.  If I take the teaching of Holy Orthodoxy seriously, there is more scriptural and religious teaching about love, hope, and peace than I can ever realize in my feeble work toward those ideals. 

 

It could be a lack of personal faith that keeps people from such events.  It could be a lack of conviction in the church or religious tradition they self identify.  It could be that they are busy with the secular tasks of business and leisure and have placed all this “spiritual” talk at a low priority.  I hope it is obvious that I believe in the sincerity and integrity of Holy Orthodoxy and that I take its teachings seriously.  If it is not obvious, then pray for me, as it is too easy to diminish the very light within me.

 

I have to acknowledge that Jesus does say there is no way to the Father except through Him. However, Jesus also said: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, that you also love one another" (John 13:34).

 

Love is to act for the good and welfare of our neighbor. God forbid any of us be a cause of stress to our neighbor. Stress is problematic to our physical, psychological, and most important, spiritual welfare. We need to reflect on the words of St. Paul: "Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right" (1 Corinthians 13:4-6). First as a Christian and second as a professional, I must apply this admonition to all dealings with my neighbors. Then, with all unworthiness, I suggest that all Christians do the same to lessen the distress among people. (Note: This idea is taken from an essay by Fr. George Morelli on stress.)

It becomes imperative, then, that I learn to dwell more with my neighbors and less with the competitive marketplace of the American secularization of faith, spirituality and religion.  When I bump into someone, regardless of fault, I have learned to act and speak in politeness and courtesy.

(structured pause here)

There remain real places of disagreement and misunderstanding among spiritualities and religions.  Sometimes, it is very difficult to sit in a room where everyone has already consigned my soul to heaven or hell – often by simply reading my name and religious affiliation or looking at my outward appearance.  It is also difficult to disregard years of serious study and discerning practice. Maybe because of this, it remains difficult for me to reject TRUTH and beauty regardless of its earthly source and I have found it helpful to listen to others.

In this 9^th Annual Interfaith Awareness week, I listened to the speakers and to those that did not speak – to what they said openly and privately.  I have five areas of consideration for the future of interfaith awareness activity:

1. Awareness can dispel ignorance, but is not a cure.  We still need to define “interfaith.” It is not a new religion. Although there may be those involved that believe that there will be one true religion, or that there already is one (and the rest of us just don’t realize it is theirs yet), Interfaith Awareness Week is only acknowledging the reality of our current existence; one where diverse faith traditions and communities already coexist in our society, sharing the same roads and neighborhoods in a free republic.

2. Diversity is about differences.  Interfaith activity is primarily a place to acknowledge those differences.  Confronted with that, we still managed to have a week of peaceful interfaith events.  The choice to be involved or not is entirely up to individuals and groups as they see fit.  […Even though I have been known to ask with great enthusiasm.]

3. Fear of conversion, and/or the “pushiness” of those of convicted belief, still keep some people from attending, speaking and sharing.  We acknowledge everyone speaks from their own training and experience; that authority and agreement are not required for interfaith dialogue. If we accept any, then we must accept all. So if “pushiness” is part of their faith, then that too needs to be acceptable in the fullness of what Interfaith Awareness Week was intended.  I have found interfaith dialogues are poor places for conversion of others.  On the other hand, interfaith activities are safe places and times for seekers to come and hear about different faiths and beliefs, to find, perhaps, direction toward what they seek.

4. The “marketplace” that I spoke of has so increased in its influence that many are not comfortable utilizing the public square where interfaith activity in general, and Interfaith Awareness Week in particular, happens. There are some that see an implied endorsement of competitive “products” by attending. 

5. Demonstrations of cooperative activities among faith groups and diverse individuals, such as planning and participating in the events this week, are important as a secular world would have all issues of faith marginalized.  There are those that benefit from a competitive spiritual “marketplace.”

(structured pause here)

I am grateful for this year’s events and the truly interfaith effort of a multifaith committee with coordinators of different faith traditions. 

 

(Give an extemporaneous review of activities - the meetings at Perkins, the logo design, the library displays, capitol displays, the activities, pod-casting, blog, etc. here)

As a conclusion, let me tell you more of what I am. I am an Orthodox priest. The root of the word for priest means “bridge.”   I hope that I am a good bridge today.  A good bridge is grounded and secure on both sides.  It is built to be a safe way to get across, from one side to the other. It is utilized for traveling, but is not the ultimate destination. A good bridge is a landmark, a signpost, a point to gain perspective, a place to mark distance. Whether over a small stream or a great chasm, a good bridge should also be a place where the view can be taken in, the soul refreshed and the journey nurtured. [If it is used frequently, it is built up a bit. If it is not used it will disappear.] The numbers of those crossing will determine a bridge’s structure as well as its need.

If I have been anything of a good bridge, then that is a success.  However, if only one person crosses to the other side safely, then the bridge has succeeded marvelously. Hasn’t it?

 

I am honored and privileged to be here in Monona and to be part of the closing event of the 9^th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week. 

 

I want to thank everyone for their participation whether in little or in much and wish to express my sincere hope that peace will prevail, if we let it.

 

 

 

IAW9 - Lakeview Event Audio (12-14-06)

IAW9 - "Essence of Divinity"
A Special Interfaith Awareness Week Dialogue Event
Recorded as six audio tracks on 12-14-06 at the Lakeview Branch of Madison
Public Library in Madison, WI

Available for podcasting/download only

http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/interfaithsociety.xml

#1 of 6 tracks - 07:38
Amit Mangar, American Hindu Association, opened the session and, as event
coordinator, asked Rev Fr John Brian Paprock to read the City of Madison
Mayoral Proclamation of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week

#2 of 6 tracks - 17:07
Dennis Jenkyns, Madison Area Baha'i Center, gave a Baha'i perspective
(Amit Mangar introduction)

#3 of 6 tracks - 17:25
Rev. Shirley Funk, pastor at Lakeview Lutheran Church, gave a Christian
perspective, followed by some short comments by Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock,
priest of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church (Amit Mangar introduction)

#4 of 6 tracks - 18:22
Amit Mangar, American Hindu Association - Madison, gave a Hindu perspective
(Rev. John-Brian Paprock introduction)

#5 of 6 tracks - 13:12
Salih Erschen from the Madison Dawa Circle and one of the founders of the
Eastside Masjid gave a Muslim perspective (Amit Mangar introduction)

#6 of 6 tracks - 12:32
Rev Cheraga Sara Perkins of the Sufi Order of Madison and two other members
of "Women With Wings" sang and chanted in her presentation which closed the
event (Amit Mangar introduction)

Kudos on 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week

Kudos on 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week 

=================================

Here is some unsolicited email received.  Seven of the comments are included in this post.  We would love to hear your thoughts and opinions. 

Please offer your comments to this post by clicking on the word "comments" at the bottom of this post.  Thank

=================================

Here are the kudos - so far:

1. -----Original Message-----

From: pejacobi    Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 12:57 PM

Dear John-Brian,

The Madison Baha'i Assembly asked me to send a special message to thank you for all your efforts regarding Interfaith Awareness Week -- both for this past week's experience as well as all the patient work put in over the years to make this happen and grow. Our community is happy to have been part of it and looks forward to next year.

With gratitude and applause,

Ellie Jacobi, for the Madison Baha'i Assembly

 

2. -----Original Message-----

From: Michelle Meyer
Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 11:51 AM

Hello John-Brian

 

Thank you for all the work you do in putting interfaith awareness week together. This whole event is quite an accomplishment - and it could not have happened without your vision.

 

Thank you also, for inviting me to speak at the Capitol Rotunda event. I left that event feeling uplifted - that in today's world of division between the world religions - we all took time to affirm the work of healing those divisions. Should you ever need a speaker for other interfaith events - do feel free to contact me.

 

In Peace:

 

Michelle Meyer

Leader: Whole Healing Ministry

 

3. -----Original Message-----

 

From: Gurdip Brar  

Sent: Tuesday, December 19, 2006 11:46 PM
 

 Dear Rev. Paprock,

Outstanding job at putting it together. Appreciate your inviting me to participate. Wishing you and your family Merry xmas and wonderful New Year of 2007. Thanks.

Gurdip S. Brar, Ph.D.

President, G2DV Technologies 

4. -----Original Message----- 

From: BB Britton
Sent: Wednesday, December 20, 2006 4:32 PM

Thank you, Rev. Paprock, for all your sharings and efforts. I am look forward to finally meeting you.  All Joy and Blessing for you and all those you love, at this holy season of Christmas. May the new Year find all dreams actualized!   

 From the Eye of the Heart..Beverley Britton
Lifeline Network for Peace
The Children's Peace Quilt 

 

5. -----Original Message-----

From: Rich Hein

Sent: Thursday, December 21, 2006 6:37 PM

Rev. John-Brian Paprock,

Thank you for the opportunity to have a Presbyterian Display and for having our minister ( Rev. Alex Thornburg) as one of the speakers. I do wonder what to do about the acoustics situation ?

Blessings and Peace now and in 2007

Ruth Hoffman Hein --- Member of Westminster Presbyterian

 

6. -----Original Message-----

From: Karen Tolley

Subject: RE: Tuesday, 12/12 Interfaith Program at Capitol

John-Brian,

Thank you so much for the audio recording, I will truly enjoy listening to it again, in a much clearer version. Plus now I can share it with my family.

Thank you.

Karen Tolley

 

7. -----Original Message-----

From: Selena Fox

Subject: 5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol

thanks much for making the recordings available so quickly, John-Brian.

I did a continuous digital recording on a disc, but haven't listened to it yet. I hope to listen to your digital segments later this week when I get to my computer with the faster internet connection.

Did you see the coverage yesterday on channel 15 news? .... there was a brief report on the 4 pm & 6 pm newscasts. The report included a bit of the Sufi women singing, Dennis of the Baha'i Community speaking, and some shots of you, the audience, others.

[snip]

I liked this year's program I also liked having the students join us this year .... the increased numbers were great! I hope that next year, in

addition to audio recording, we can get a video made of it.

I like the program page design this year .... and including the range of exhibits in the Rotunda was a good idea.

[snip]

Finally, thanks for mentioning Paul Jacobi yesterday ... a wonderful touch ... and thanks for all your work over the years to make this event happen. I am so glad to be part of it ... and am glad that it continues to evolve and grow!

Blessings,

Selena

Circle Sanctuary

Keynote Address Text - 5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol

[John-Brian, People have been gracious about my statement. I don't routinely
publish talks like these on our website or in our community newspaper.
While the attached (below) is what was written in advance, I did deviate
during its presentation at the Capitol. Shalom. - Steve Thu 12/14/2006
10:27 AM]

Fifth Annual Wisconsin Interfaith Awareness Celebration
December 12, 2006
State Capitol

Keynote Remarks
by
Steven H. Morrison
Executive Director
Madison Jewish Community Council

It's a distinct privilege and I am honored to have been asked to talk with
you about "moving forward in our community of diverse people" as we
celebrate interfaith awareness.

While many here today may not remember a time when interfaith awareness and
activity did not exist, it's important to remember that the movement is of
relatively recent vintage.

America in the 1920's proved the time and place for the beginning of the
interfaith movement. This may seem incongruous to those students of American
history who remember the intense isolationism and nativism that
characterized America in the 1920's. The decade after World War I saw the
passage the 1924 immigration act that severely limited access to the United
States, the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan, and the publication and
dissemination by Henry Ford of The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, a
forgery that alleged world Jewish conspiracy.

And yet the 1920's were also the "age of goodwill." A sizeable number of
American religious leaders judged the intolerance advocated by the KKK and
others as un-American and un-Christian. In addition, WWI stimulated a sense
of religious fraternity, as soldiers (and chaplains) of different faiths
worked and fought side by side. Finally, many religious leaders realized
that domestic harmony improved chances of more peaceful international
relations.

While the interfaith movement of the 1920's and 1930's successfully promoted
interfaith education through lectures and workshops in America, the movement
failed to effect change when it mattered most - in the political arena
during the reign of the Nazis.

The Holocaust changed the course of interfaith dialogue, shifting the focus
from combating intolerance to understanding intolerance. How did anti-Jewish
aspects of Christian theology encourage demonization of Jews? Where did
these attitudes come from? Could they be changed, and if so, how? These are
some of the philosophical questions that became part of interfaith dialogue
in the postwar period, and they continue to be debated today.

Interfaith activities expanded in pluralistic postwar America. The civil
rights movement provided opportunities to actualize interfaith goals of
social justice. The interfaith movement broadened its agenda to include race
in the 1950's. By the 1960's, the group had implemented a national campaign
to counter anti-Semitism and racism as well.

As we gather today in the closing days of 2006 to reflect on interfaith
awareness, we have an opportunity to remember with profound fondness and
respect an individual who took interfaith awareness to heights unimagined in
nearly 2,000 years.

I, of course, am referring to Sister Rose Thering who died last May at age
85. Sister Rose was a woman, nun, educator and compassionate and committed
human being who helped bring about change against great odds and, in so
doing - in my judgment - made the greatest interfaith contribution ever.

Sister Rose understood early in life that anti-Semitism was wrong and
devoted herself to working against it. As a young girl here in Wisconsin she
was taught in Catholic school that Jews were Christ killers. Years later, as
a Catholic school teacher, she was shocked that the religious textbooks and
teachings remained unchanged. Her inquisitiveness and sensitivity led her to
work toward bringing about change. She did a study on anti-Semitism in
Catholic texts that resulted in her 1961 doctoral dissertation, which
exposed the anti-Jewish slanders in textbooks and preaching.

It's said that timing is everything in life, and how true that was for
Sister Rose. She lived during a time of overt anti-Semitism in this country,
as well as during a time of activism and change. It was certainly fortunate,
if not divinely inspired, that her resolve to change the Church's teaching
about Jews coincided with the Church's reform movement. Her deep belief in
and respect for her faith provided the foundation for her to seize the
moment. Ultimately, her work led to fundamental change of the teachings of
the Catholic Church and its relationship with their "elder brothers and
sisters."

This, too, was the year when leaders and followers of many faiths banded
together in what ultimately was a failed attempt to defeat legislating
discrimination in our State's Constitution. Though we failed, we also
forged stronger ties between religions and faith groups. So, too, this was
the year when interfaith activity coalesced around stopping the genocide in
Darfur.

We close 2006 by coming together as a community of diverse people when the
very existence of interfaith relations may be in jeopardy.

Permit me to explain my deep - very deep - worry.

America's more than two-century-old embrace of religious liberty has
produced the most religiously pluralistic nation in history of the world.
The success of that bold experiment in liberty cannot be denied, but its
future is, I believe, at risk . . . mostly because religious pluralism can
only exist when there is an unwavering commitment to maintaining
religion-state separation as the best means of assuring robust religious
liberty and to creating a climate of mutual respect in a religiously diverse
culture.

Yet, that is not the climate we are experiencing today. We are, today,
confronted by a strikingly invalid view about the role of religion in public
life. It portrays America as a Christian nation. As an aside, I never and
will never use the term "Judeo-Christian" for the simple reason that there
is no such thing. Besides, those who portray America as a Christian nation
know what they mean . . . and they don't mean many, if not most, of us
gathered today.

This view wrongly suggests that the Founders never meant to separate the
institutions of religion and state or to prohibit the establishment of
religion. Such a view is historically inaccurate and endangers our common
welfare because it uses religion to divide rather than unite the American
people. This view of religion in public life, inaccurate and dangerous as it
is, has gained credence in reaction to another inaccurate and equally
damaging view of the proper role of religion in public life.

It's doubtful, I think, that any of us would have come to our State's
capitol were we not committed to religious liberty as well as a dynamic role
for religion in public life. My sense is that we likely share a different
vision about the future - a vision that avoids both the theocratic
tendencies on one side and the hostility toward religion associated with the
other. Now more than ever, the United States must maintain its commitment to
freedom for persons of all faiths and of no faith.

Today, then, is a very good day, indeed, to reaffirm our dedication to
providing what Roger Williams called a "haven for the cause of conscience."
We ought to agree with Williams that conscience is best guarded by
maintaining a healthy distance between the institutions of religion and
government.

But, the reality is that reaffirmation of these truths is not sufficient. We
need to apply these principles in practical ways whether we are electing a
school board member or an American president, whether we are debating
providing government support for so-called "faith based" programs or, yet
once again, prayer in public schools.

The first sixteen words of the First Amendment form the backbone of the
American experiment. Together they guarantee religious liberty for Americans
of every faith as well as for those who affirm no faith at all. A profound
belief in the freedom of conscience motivated the decision of the Founders
to disestablish religion in the new nation and to specifically protect the
free exercise of religion. Both clauses require the separation of religion
and state as the means of ensuring religious liberty.

This "lively experiment" has allowed religions to flourish with unparalleled
strength and diversity. The religious and ethnic diversity of the United
States makes the constitutional prohibition against laws respecting an
establishment of religion more important than ever. No one wants government
taking sides against their religion in favor of someone else's. In matters
of faith, government must not take sides at all.

The "America is a Christian Nation" crowd argues that the phrase "separation
of church and state" does not appear in the Constitution and that society
cannot survive without government support of religion. As to the former,
they are correct. "Separation of church and state," like "separation of
powers," "fair trial" or even "religious freedom," does not appear in the
Constitution.

Yet, Article VI's prohibition against religious tests for public office and
the Establishment Clause's prohibition against laws even "respecting" an
establishment of religion makes clear that government is to be neutral in
matters of faith. As to the latter, government support has proven a
hindrance, not a help, to religion. History is replete with wrecked
governments and weakened churches brought down by the unhealthy union of
church and state.

For America, I think, it comes down to this.

Neither religion nor state may control, dominate or subjugate the other. Our
heritage of religious liberty and religion-state separation must be
reaffirmed and, as the Founders demanded, must remain as they intended them
to be - the first words of the foundational First Amendment.

Daniel Carroll of Maryland said it well more than 200 years ago when he
declared that "the rights of conscience are . . . of particular delicacy and
will little bear the gentlest touch of governmental hand." Carroll's lofty
view of conscience captures our understanding of our past and guides our
vision of the future.

So today, as we "move forward in our community of diverse people," I ask
that we each of us do so by committing ourselves to making this ideal a
reality in the days and years ahead.

= = =

You can hear it online.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS delivered by Steve Morrison, Executive Director of Madison
Jewish Community Council
12 minutes, 38 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state-cel
ebration_12.html

For podcasting (rss feed - download) listed as "#9 of 10 tracks" of the 5th
Annual celebration
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/interfaithsociety.xml

Local religious leaders were all preaching the same message - tolerance and acceptance

MSNBC picked up the local story from their affiliate WMTV
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16151280/

[note: The week has also been announced in Hindu Press International, Be The
Cause, United Religions International, North American Interfaith Network,
Interfaith Voices for Peace, and many local newsletters and internet
communiqués (lists and urls)]

http://www.nbc15.com/home/headlines/4877496.html
First aired 12/10/2006

Interfaith Awareness Week Kicks Off
Religious Leaders Share The Same Message
Local religious leaders were all preaching the same message Sunday -
tolerance and acceptance.

A celebration at the Middleton Public Library marked the kick-off to
Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin.

Over nine years, the event has grown from a handful of people in the Madison
area to recognition in cities all over the state.

Reverend John-Brian Paprock coordinates the celebration and says getting
along with people of different faiths has never been more important.

"That's an unfortunate reality of our current world is that we're really
threatened by people who believe different or look differently and I think
this is a way for us to come together to demonstrate that we can work
together."

Events continue all week, including a celebration in the Capitol Rotunda on
Tuesday.

For event details, go to http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/

Video feed of news story

http://video.nbc15.madison.com/global/video/popup/pop_player.asp?ClipID1=111
2662&h1=Religious%20Leaders%20Share%20The%20Same%20Message&vt1=v&at1=News&d1
=45833&LaunchPageAdTag=News&fvCatNo=&backgroundImageURL=&activePane=info&pla
yerVersion=1&hostPageUrl=http%3A//www.nbc15.com/home/headlines/4877496.html&
rnd=62554607

Radio broadcast of 5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol

Immediate Release
Contact: Nathan Moore, News & Public Affairs Facilitator, about the
broadcast.
newsfac@wort-fm.org 608-256-2001
Contact Rev John-Brian Paprock about the event
inroads@minister.com 608-836-6778

Radio broadcast of 5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol

WORT-FM (89.9 FM) will air the 5th Annual Interfaith Awareness Celebration
at the Capitol on Christmas Day, 12/2506, from 12:05pm - 1:00pm, during "A
Public Affair". Some editing was made for length.

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol was attended by over
150 people, including the World Religion Class of Sauk Prairie High School.
This event was part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in
Wisconsin.

The broadcast on 12/25/06 will be from live recordings from presentations on
12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Here is the program:

1. OPENING AND PROCLAMATION
1a. Rev Fr John Brian Paprock, director Inroads Ministry, priest of
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Madison
1b. Anne Wynne, vice president of the Greater Madison
Interrreligious Association, High Initiate of Eckankar
1c. PROCLAMATION by the Governor of Wisconsin, read by: Christopher
River Paprock, Middleton High School and Holy Transfiguration Orthodox
Church, Madison

2. BAHA'I - Dennis Jenkyns, Madison Area Baha'i Center

3. NATURE RELIGION - Reverend Selena Fox, President of Greater Madison
Interreligious Association and Senior Minister of Circle Sanctuary,
Barneveld

4. BUDDHIST - Venerable George Churinoff, Deer Park Tibetan Buddhist Center,
Oregon

5. LUTHERAN - Michelle Meyer, Leader of Whole Healing Ministry and
Springdale Lutheran Church, Mt Horeb

6. HINDU - Amit Mangar, American Hindu Association - Madison

7. SIKH - Grudip Brar, Sikh Society of Wisconsin - Middleton Gurdwara

8. PRESBYTERIAN - Reverend Alex Thornburg, Pastor of Westminster
Presbyterian Church, Madison

9. KEYNOTE ADDRESS delivered by Steve Morrison, Executive Director of
Madison Jewish Community Council

10. CLOSING (will not be broadcast on 12/25/06)

Tracks can be listened to on-line or downloaded (podcast). Audio-CDs are
available at cost.
For on-line listening www.interfaithsociety.blogspot.com
For Podcasting (rss feed - download)
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/interfaithsociety.xml

Rev. John-Brian Paprock
Inroads Ministry
P.O.Box 5207
Madison, WI 53705
608.236.9622
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads
www.interfaithsociety.blogspot.com

Audio - 5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of
Madison, Wisconsin was attended by over 150 people, including the World
Religion Class of Sauk Prairie High School. This event was part of the 9th
Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin.

For those that missed either due to schedule or distance, digital audio
recordings were made of the entire event.

These recordings (listed below) were made from the live presentations on
12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Tracks can be listened to on-line
or downloaded (podcast)- click URL below each track description. Audio-CD
can be order as well through inroads@minister.com

All tracks together is almost one hour.

For podcasting (rss feed)
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/interfaithsociety.xml

Specific tracks (10 total for the event)

1. OPENING AND PROCLAMATION
>> Rev Fr John Brian Paprock, director Inroads Ministry, priest of Holy
Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Madison
>> Anne Wynne, vice president of the Greater Madison Interrreligious
Association, High Initiate of Eckankar
PROCLAMATION by the Governor of Wisconsin, read by:
>> Christopher River Paprock, Middleton High School and Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Church, Madison

#1 of 10 tracks. 11 minutes, 3 seconds

http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state_116
599953943399627.html

2. BAHA'I - Dennis Jenkyns, Madison Area Baha'i Center

#2 of 10 tracks. 4 minutes, 0 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state-cel
ebration_13.html

3. NATURE RELIGION - Reverend Selena Fox, President of Greater Madison
Interreligious Association and Senior Minister of Circle Sanctuary,
Barneveld

#3 of 10 tracks. 6 minutes, 50 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state_116
599595013006209.html

4. BUDDHIST - Venerable George Churinoff, Deer Park Tibetan Buddhist Center,
Oregon

#4 of 10 tracks. 2 minutes, 24 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state_116
599419873542285.html

5. LUTHERAN - Michelle Meyer, Leader of Whole Healing Ministry and
Springdale Lutheran Church, Mt Horeb

#5 of 10 tracks. 4 minutes, 9 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state_116
599351033941572.html

6. HINDU - Amit Mangar, American Hindu Association - Madison

#6 of 10 tracks. 3 minutes, 56 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state_116
599252552785111.html

7. SIKH - Grudip Brar, Sikh Society of Wisconsin - Middleton Gurdwara

#7 of 10 tracks. 4 minutes, 55 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state_116
599333231789771.html

8. PRESBYTERIAN - Reverend Alex Thornburg, Pastor of Westminster
Presbyterian Church, Madison

#8 of 10 tracks. 2 minutes, 59 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state_116
598051596142065.html

9. KEYNOTE ADDRESS delivered by Steve Morrison, Executive Director of
Madison Jewish Community Council

#9 of 10 tracks. 12 minutes, 38 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state-cel
ebration_12.html

10. CLOSING
Fr John Brian Paprock
Women with Wings (Ellora Atkinson, Rachel Roang, Thereasa Tolan & Joy Wood)
Sufi Order of Madison

#10 of 10 tracks. 7 minutes, 0 seconds
http://interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/2006/12/5th-annual-wisconsin-state-cel
ebration.html

In service to God and humanity,

Rev. John-Brian Paprock
Inroads Ministry
P.O.Box 5207
Madison, WI 53705
608.236.9622
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads

Origins of gift-giving reach back aeons - link to article

Here is an article that was written for the Holiday Idea Book, an insert
magazine of our local newspapers, includes festive gift giving of 10
traditions at this time of year. Love to hear what you think.

Origins of gift-giving reach back aeons
By John-Brian Paprock
For Capitol Newspapers
Sunday, November 19, 2006
(fairly long article so link is here)

www.madison.com/features/holidayideas/pdf/hol_22_31_32.pdf

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

OPENING AND PROCLAMATION
>> Rev Fr John Brian Paprock, director Inroads Ministry, priest of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Madison
>> Anne Wynne, vice president of the Greater Madison Interrreligious Association, High Initiate of Eckankar

PROCLAMATION by the Governor of Wisconsin, read by:
>> Christopher River Paprock, Middleton High School and Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Madison

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin


#2 of 10 tracks. BAHA’I - Dennis Jenkyns, Madison Area Baha’i Center

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

#3 of 10 tracks. NATURE RELIGION - Reverend Selena Fox, President of Greater Madison Interreligious Association and Senior Minister of Circle Sanctuary, Barneveld

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

4 of 10 tracks. BUDDHIST - Venerable George Churinoff, Deer Park Tibetan Buddhist Center, Oregon

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

#5 of 10 tracks. LUTHERAN - Michelle Meyer, Leader of Whole Healing Ministry and Springdale Lutheran Church, Mt Horeb

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

#7 of 10 tracks. SIKH - Grudip Brar, Sikh Society of Wisconsin – Middleton Gurdwara

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

#6 of 10 tracks. HINDU - Amit Mangar, American Hindu Association - Madison

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

#8 of 10 tracks. PRESBYTERIAN - Reverend Alex Thornburg, Pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Madison

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

9 of 10 tracks. KEYNOTE ADDRESS delivered by Steve Morrison, Executive Director of Madison Jewish Community Council

5th Annual Wisconsin State Celebration in the Capitol in the center of Madison, Wisconsin - this recording was made live on 12-12-06 in the capitol building rotunda. Part of the 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness Week in Wisconsin

Closing of the event. Rev Fr John Brian Paprock and Women with Wings (Sufi Order of Madison)

9th ANNUAL INTERFAITH AWARENESS WEEK - MUCH MORE THAN BEFORE

9th ANNUAL INTERFAITH AWARENESS WEEK - MUCH MORE THAN BEFORE

The 9th Annual Interfaith Awareness week will have more activities, more
opportunities to meet people of diverse faith traditions and cultures, than
any year before.

This year's activities are co-sponsored by Inroads Ministry and the Greater
Madison Interreligious Association. The coordinating committee has
diversified venues and times for greater involvement during the week. Some
of the interfaith ideals of cooperative leadership and service have flowed
into the planning and running of each event. The coordinating committee has
had members of five different faith traditions with others involved in
specific events.

Here is the program of events for IAW9. There is a three fold brochure of
all the events that is available and can be sent electronically.

=======================================================
INTERFAITH AWARENESS WEEK OPENING EVENT
DECEMBER 10 - Sunday, 2pm
Good Neighbor Interfaith Celebration
"PEACE & HARMONY"

Opening Devotion - Judy Morgan (Middleton Baha'i Community) Interfaith City
Council Resolution - Alderman Kurt Sonnentag, City of Middleton Outreach
Ministry collection

Multifaith Panel - with short individual presentations and discussion
>Rev Fr John Brian Paprock (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Christian Church)
>Gurdip Brar (Sikh Society of Wisconsin - Middleton Gurdwara)
>Darby Pugielli (St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church)
>Judy Korn (Middleton Baha'i Community)
>Pastor Jeff Jacobs (Springdale Lutheran Church, Mt Horeb)

Closing with Sufi Dance for Peace led by Rev Cheraga Joy Wood & Rev Cheraga
Gretchen Ellora

There will be refreshments

Preview almost half of the faith tradition displays that will be at the
Capitol

Middleton Public Library, Archer Room
7425 Hubbard Avenue, Middleton
Coordinator, Rev. John-Brian Paprock

==========================================================================

DECEMBER 11-15 - Monday thru Friday
Interfaith Awareness Week displays
Capitol Rotunda, Capitol Building, Madison

Baha'i Faith - Madison Area Baha'i Center
Deer Park Tibetan Buddhist Center
Episcopal Church in Wisconsin by St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church
Greater Madison Inter-religious Association
Hindu Beliefs by American Hindu Association - Wisconsin
Interfaith Awareness Week
Islam by Madison Muslim Community
Jewish Calendar and Information by Madison Jewish Community Council
Multifaith Calendars by Inroads Interfaith Ministry
Orthodox Christianity in Wisconsin by Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church
Presbyterian Church in Wisconsin by Westminster Presbyterian Church
Religion of Light and Sound by Eckankar of Wisconsin
Sikh Faith by Sikh Society of Wisconsin - Middleton Gurdwara
Sufi Order of the West by Sufi Order of Madison
United Methodist Church in Dane County and Wisconsin by First United
Methodist Church
Unity by Unity Church of Madison
Yuletide by Circle Sanctuary

In addition, we acknowledge the "Holiday Tree;" the Freedom from Religion
Foundation Solstice declaration; the Dane County Evangelicals Jesus
declaration and the Hanukkah Menorah (which will be in the capitol later
this week) that inspire and complement the intent and purpose of Interfaith
Awareness Week.

Coordinators, Anne Wynne and Rev. John-Brian Paprock

============================================================================
===================

DECEMBER 11 - Monday, 7pm
Dane County Interfaith Awareness Celebration & Universal Worship "UNITY &
DIVERSITY"

Universal Worship participants:
Hindu - Amit Mangar
Buddhist - Celeste Robins
Native American (Ojibwe) - Alice Loew
Jewish - Francie Saposnik
Christian (Baptist) - Guta Cvetkovic
Islam - Rohany Nayan
Wiccan - Selena Fox
Baha'i - Judy Morgan
Eckankar - Anne Wynne

Universal Worship led by:
Sufi Order of Madison members: Ellora Atkinson, Sara Perkins, Rachel Roang,
Joy Wood

Meriter Retirement Community, Health Center Auditorium
334 W. Doty Street, Madison
Coordinator, Anne Wynne
MRC chaplain, Rev. Guta Cvetkovic

============================================================================
========

DECEMBER 12 - Tuesday, 12noon
5th Annual Wisconsin Interfaith Awareness Celebration in the Capitol
"FORWARD"

OPENING
Joel Thundercloud - Ho Chunk drum

INTRODUCTION
Reverend Father John-Brian Paprock
Co-Coordinator, Interfaith Awareness Week Director, Inroads Interfaith
Ministry Priest, Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church

Anne Wynne
Co-Coordinator, Interfaith Awareness Week Vice-President, Greater Madison
Inter-religious Association Higher Initiate of Eckankar

INTERFAITH AWARENESS WEEK PROCLAMATION
Read by Christopher River Paprock, Middleton High School Holy
Transfiguration Orthodox Church

BAHA'I
Dennis Jenkyns
Madison Area Baha'i Center

NATURE RELIGION
Reverend Selena Fox
President, Greater Madison Inter-religious Association Senior Minister,
Circle Sanctuary

LUTHERAN
Michelle Meyer
Leader, Whole Healing Ministry - Springdale Lutheran Church

HINDU
Amit Mangar
American Hindu Association

SIKH
Gurdip Brar
Sikh Association of Wisconsin - Middleton

PRESBYTERIAN
Reverend Alex Thornburg
Pastor, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Madison

KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Steve Morrison
Executive Director, Madison Jewish Community Council

CLOSING
DANCE FOR PEACE
Led by Ellora Atkinson, Rachel Roang, & Joy Wood - Sufi Order of Madison

Individuals of different faiths will be available for questions and
discussion before and after the program at their respective displays.

============================================================================
====

DECEMBER 13 - Wednesday, 9:30am
Madison Interfaith Dialogue Group Monthly Meeting "The longest continuous
interfaith dialogue in Wisconsin"

Holy Wisdom Monastery (St Benedict Center) Highway M, Middleton
(Technically, not part of IAW9 planning - it is part of the week's intent)
============================================================================
========

DECEMBER 14 - Thursday, 6pm
Madison Interfaith Awareness Celebration "ESSENCE OF DIVINITY"

ISLAM - Salih Erschen (Dawa Circle of Madison)
HINDUISM - Amit Mangar (American Hindu Association)
BAHA'I _ Dennis Jenkyns (Madison Area Baha'i Center)
CHRISTIAN - Rev. Shirley Funk (Lakeview Lutheran Church) or Rev Fr
John-Brian Paprock (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church)
SUFI - Rev Cheraga Sara Perkins with Tereasa Tolan (Sufi Order of Madison)

Madison Public Library - Lakeview Branch
2845 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison
Coordinator, Amit Mangar

============================================================================
===========

INTERFAITH AWARENESS WEEK CLOSING EVENT
DECEMBER 16 - Saturday, 10am
Monona Interfaith Awareness Celebration
"TOLERANCE & UNDERSTANDING"

Representative of Monona City Council to present city proclamation

Baha'i - Dennis Jenkyns
Hinduism - Amit Mangar
Sufism - Rev Cheraga Sara Perkins
Eastern Orthodox Christianity - Rev Fr John-Brian Paprock

Refreshments and discussion

Monona Public Library
1000 Nichols Road, Monona
Coordinator, Dennis Jenkyns

============================================================================
=============

****************************************************************************
***

PUBLIC LIBRARY DISPLAYS

> Through December 18, interfaith book display at Monona Public Library
> For the month of December, interfaith book display at Middleton Public
> Library Interfaith book displays at Madison Public Library - Main
> Branch & Lakeview Branch
(call to check for times and location of displays)

****************************************************************************
********

There may be additions/changes before events.

Copies of municipal proclamations are available - State of Wisconsin, Dane
County, Cities of Madison, Middleton and Monona. The Wisconsin proclamation
by Gov. Doyle is posted here as well.
For more information, text copies of the proclamations or other contact
reasons:

Rev. John-Brian Paprock
IAW9 Coordinator
Inroads Interfaith Ministry
P.O. Box 5207, Madison, WI 53705
(608) 236-9622 ~ inroads@minister.com
www.interfaithsociety.blogspot.com

9th Annual
INTERFAITH AWARENESS WEEK
DECEMBER 10 - 16, 2006

For Wisconsin, Dane County & the cities of Madison, Middleton & Monona

�encouraging citizens to learn more about each others' beliefs in the spirit of community.�

* * *
GOOD NEIGHBOR
INTERFAITH CELEBRATION
MIDDLETON PUBLIC LIBRARY
7425 HUBBARD AVENUE, MIDDLETON
SUNDAY, DEC. 10 - 2PM

* * *
DANE COUNTY
INTERFAITH CELEBRATION
& UNIVERSAL WORSHIP SERVICE
MERITER RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
HEALTH CENTER AUDITORIUM
334 W. DOTY STREET, MADISON
MONDAY, DEC. 11 - 7PM

* * *
5th Annual Wisconsin Capitol
Interfaith Awareness Celebration
Capital Building Rotunda
Tuesday, December 12 - 12 noon

* * *
MADISON INTERFAITH CELEBRATION
LAKEVIEW PUBLIC LIBRARY
2845 N. SHERMAN AVE., MADISON
THURSDAY, DEC. 14 - 6PM

MONONA INTERFAITH CELEBRATION
MONONA PUBLIC LIBRARY
1000 NICHOLS ROAD, MONONA
SATURDAY, DEC. 16 - 10AM

o Displays of World Religions
** Monday thru Friday**
The Capitol Rotunda
o Monona Library
Display through Dec. 18
o Madison Public Library
Main Branch, Lakeview Branch
o Middleton Library
Display entire month of December

Interfaith Awareness Week is co-sponsored by Inroads Interfaith Ministry and the Greater Madison Inter-religious Association

The Proclamation of Interfaith Awareness Week has been made by Wisconsin�s Governor and the Dane County Executive every year SINCE 1998

ALL EVENTS ARE FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FOR MORE INFORMATION
(608) 236-9622 ~ inroads@minister.com

Can world religions find common ground? - Middleton kicks off Interfaith Awareness Week

[Everyone is invited to the Middleton City Council Meeting (Middleton City
Hall - 12/6, 7:30pm) when the "Interfaith City Council resolution" is
scheduled - Councilman Sonnentag will be presenting the proclamation at
12/10 event; in addition, a collection will be taken for Middleton Outreach
Ministry food pantry at the Middleton event; BTW displays at the capitol now
number 18 - JBP]

MIDDLETON TIMES TRIBUNE
http://www.newspubinc.com/main.asp?SectionID=7&SubSectionID=101&ArticleID=31
60&TM=53128.36

Can world religions find common ground?
11/30/2006 11:48:00 AM
Matt Geiger
News Editor

There is an analogy popular among philosophers. In it, four blind men
encounter an elephant. Having never seen one before, each man feels a
different part of the animal and describes it in radically different ways.
One man feels the trunk and thinks it is a snake, another feels the legs and
thinks it is a tree, and so on. They may not know it, but each person is
describing different aspects of the same thing.

For the philosopher, the elephant represents God and the men are the world's
many religions.

Rev. John-Brian Paprock wants to get together with leaders from other faiths
and talk about the elephant.

Paprock, a priest at the Holy Transfiguration Mission Parish in Madison,
founded Wisconsin Interfaith Awareness Week nine years ago. It all began
when Paprock sent a draft proclamation about tolerance to then governor
Tommy Thompson. To Paprock's surprise, Thompson signed it. Since then the
event has continued growing.

On Dec. 10, the weeklong series of interfaith gatherings will kick-off at
the Middleton Public Library before heading back to the capital.

"Interfaith is all about learning how to get along with people who think
differently than you," Paprock, a Middleton resident, explained.

"We hold the gatherings on neutral turf at municipal buildings, so it
doesn't turn into 'come to my church,'" he continued. "It's honoring the
American tradition and what has become a worldwide tradition in many places
- the freedom to believe."

The event draws diverse people (nearly half the participants in past years
were non-Christian), and Paprock said Interfaith Week involves admitting not
all people view the world in the same way.

"We like to think that all Muslims are alike, but they're not. We like to
think all Hindus are alike, but they're not," observed Paprock. "We need to
develop a vocabulary so that we can communicate with other people. That way,
when someone says Dharma or Karma, we understand them - not in just the pop
sense - but the real meaning of the term."

People often ask Paprock why he endorses religions other than his own.

"It always comes up: 'How can you endorse another faith?'" he comments. "But
I say, 'They don't need my endorsement - they already exist. They already
have followers and some of them have been around for even longer than
Christianity if you use the year 33 (A.D.) as a starting point."

The rules are simple: there is no proselytizing; people must be honest about
their faith; and materials about each religion can be made available but not
handed out.

"The idea is that by learning to communicate, we learn that we can work in
the same room together without killing each other," Paprock said. "That's
actually the point we are at and it became all the more evident after 9/11
that it's important."

STARTING IN MIDDLETON

The entire week runs Dec. 10-16, starting on United Nations Human Rights
Day. Since 1998, the Governor and the Dane County Executive have proclaimed
the week inclusive of Human Rights Day as Interfaith Awareness Week. In
1999, the Mayor of Madison joined the annual proclamation. This year, the
Mayors of Middleton and Monona will be proclaiming this special week as
well. Middleton Mayor Doug Zwank is scheduled to read a proclamation
honoring the week at the Dec. 5 common council meeting.

A multi-faith committee has worked on coordinating a variety of locations
and times for Interfaith Awareness Week events this year. Although details
of presenters at each event are still being worked on, each event already
has more than four different faith traditions represented in the program.

There are commitments for more than 14 displays of different faith
traditions at the state capitol. Some of the displays will be previewed at
the Middleton kick-off event Sunday afternoon.

Some of the faith traditions already involved include: Baha'i, Buddhist,
Christian (several denominations), Eckankar, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Sufi Order
of the West, Unity and Wiccan