Sunday, 2 to Tuesday, 4 February 2025, in Melbourne.
In a world torn by violence, dissension, othering and hatred is there a role for dialogue?
The Australian Council of Christians and Jews (ACCJ) believes there is and is inviting Australians interested in dialogue to meet in Melbourne in February 2025.
“Post October 7 [2024], people in many religious traditions have stepped back from meeting each other. Now is the time for all that to change,” ACCJ Chair Dr Ron Hoenig, said.
The three-day event, to be called Heads, Hearts and Hands: What can dialogue do for us? focuses on dialogue and interfaith activities in Australia and New Zealand and will be held in conjunction with the visit of world leaders in Christian/ Jewish dialogue, the board of the International Council of Christians and Jews.
The event is co-sponsored by the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion Australia, whose work in Jewish Christian encounter, dialogue and action is world-renowned.
“We strongly believe that open dialogue has the power to make a significant positive difference in the world, benefiting people of all faiths and none,” Dr Hoenig said.
“We will be sharing theory and debate (heads), emotional responses (heart), and examples of practical action (hands).”
The keynote address will be given by the President of the International Council of Christians and Jews, Rabbi David Fox Sandmel.
Over the next two days, attendees will have a unique opportunity to hear from local and international speakers about national and international experiences of dialogue and ways of dealing with the current challenges facing Christian/ Jewish dialogue.
“People will be able to participate in hands-on workshops providing practical tools to bring back to our communities and work to create more cohesive communities with a greater respect and appreciation of other traditions,” Dr Hoenig said.
Media Contacts
Dr Ron Hoenig +61 419 183 214
Mark Walsh +61 447 462 951