To mark the Semiquincentennial, our Leadership Institute has launched a series of programs and events that explore 250 years of religious liberty in Philadelphia. Through this initiative, they are bringing together not only individuals but also groups with diverse faith communities to offer meaningful spaces to connect, collaborate, and reflect on the history, challenges, and ongoing significance of religious freedom.
One example is a consultation with the Center for Interfaith Cooperation (IndyCIC), an Indiana based nonprofit that works to pursue peace through interfaith understanding.
Their Pilgrim Pairs Project: Exploring Faith and Religious Liberty, supported by the Lilly Endowment, will explore religious freedom: where it began, how it has evolved, and why it matters today. More than 60 people from twelve faith communities across Central Indiana will meet monthly (January – April), guided by a customized Passport to Understanding© curriculum.
During their first facilitated meeting in Indiana, one Hindu participant initially struggled when asked to name a curious question they might want to be asked about their faith or experience.
Participant faith communities include the Church of Latter-day Saints, Episcopal, Hindu, Jewish, Methodist, Muslim, Sikh, and Quaker. Cohorts will explore the historical roots of religious liberty; reflect on how different traditions have experienced freedom and limitation; examine contemporary challenges and opportunities in a pluralistic society; and build relationships rooted in curiosity, empathy, and respect.
During their first facilitated meeting in Indiana, one Hindu participant initially struggled when asked to name a curious question they might want to be asked about their faith or experience. After sitting with the prompt, they shared a powerful insight: they are so frequently asked questions that feel loaded or defensive that it was difficult to imagine a question rooted in genuine curiosity. Naming this out loud became a moment of recognition—for themselves and for the group—about how easily interfaith interactions can place people in defensive postures. This reflection deepened the conversation and highlighted the importance of creating spaces where participants can move into authentic exchange.
Pilgrim Pairs Project will culminate this June with a pilgrimage from Indiana to Philadelphia where they will tour historic and sacred sites, engage with local interfaith leaders, and take part in a thoughtfully-curated experience shaped by Interfaith Philadelphia’s deep relationships and expertise in interfaith engagement. Together, they will reflect on how the nation’s founding ideals continue to shape civic and religious life.
Contact us to explore opportunities for consultations with the Leadership Institute.
