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November 22, 2001
From THE RECORD, 11/8/01
Festival of Faiths contributes to understanding among faith traditions
by Archbishop Thomas C. Kelly, Louisville, KY
The Holy Father, John Paul II, has done some serious work on the issues of Christian unity and religious tolerance. His philosophy is brilliantly presented in the encyclical "Ut Unum Sint" ("That All May Be One").
Here the pope speaks strikingly about the need for Christian unity, but he also mentions with great respect those who share with Christians their belief in a single God. He encourages all of us to get to know one another better so that we will not be speaking from ignorance or prejudice, but from an intelligent appreciation of another's views.
This philosophy is precisely what the Cathedral Heritage Foundation is all about, especially as they seek to bring the community together each year through the Festival of Faiths.
And this event is hauntingly timely, since we have (learned) so much from the terrorist attacks of those who abuse and misuse religion to excuse their crimes.
The Festival of Faiths brings faith traditions together in an open and hospitable environment to share their wealth with the community. Each year faith groups are invited to showcase how faith and spirituality address ultimate issues. and questions, both in the civic and religious arenas. This year's theme is 'Faith and Families." ' In the Roman Catholic tradition, we understand the family as the domestic Church, and we hold up the family as sacred and family activities as holy. Though it may be differently expressed, this understanding permeates the practice of many other faith traditions, and we can look forward to some excellent and creative presentations on faith and family during the festival.
The festival always attracts distinguished speakers, and this year is no exception. Rabbi Harold Kushner, author of When Bad Things Happen to Good People, is the keynote speaker. Dr. Martin Marty, an expert on faith and culture from the University of Chicago, will give the homily at the Community Thanksgiving Service. Thomas Moore, author and psychotherapist, is featured at the prayer breakfast, and Paul Wilkes, writer and film maker, will speak at the closing ceremonies. The program line-up also includes several sessions on the sandwich generation, genealogy, parenting and youth, to name a few.
The Festival of Faiths is a unique event and is one of the many interfaith efforts that has contributed to Louisville's reputation as a tolerant and caring community.