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September 2026 Newsletter

Remembering Imam Abdullah El-Amin

IFLC Community Organizer Steve Spreitzer reflects on the legacy of Imam Abdullah El-Amin, his vision for community, and the many lives he touched across faith traditions.

Celebrating Bob Bruttell

IFLC Board Member Bob Bruttell was recently honored at the Islamic Society of North America’s National Convention. Discover Bob’s reflections on the power of interfaith understanding, and why understanding is an action.

Stories of Courage – Dr. Walid Harb

In a time when civility, ethics, and moral principles can feel increasingly absent, IFLC Vice President Dr. Walid Harb reflects on the courage it takes to stand for what is right. From speaking up against injustice and resisting bullying to responding with patience, seeking truth, helping those in need, and maintaining faith, Dr. Harb reminds us that courage can take many forms, and often begins with choosing a different path.

IFLC recently gathered at the Dr. Sullivan and Mrs. Richie Jean Sherrod Jackson Home in Greenfield Village!

Our visit to the Jackson House invited us inside the home and into the story of the Jackson family. We heard their stories, glimpsed their lives through this snapshot in time, and reflected on the ways family, faith, refuge, resilience, and belonging shaped their experience and those of the civil rights leaders and organizers that were frequent guests.

August 2026 Newsletter

Upcoming: InterFaith Odysseys: Explore Buddhism

Wednesday, September 23, 2026
6:00-8:30 PM
Midwest Buddhist Meditation Center
29750 Ryan Rd., Warren, MI 48092

IFLC Welcomes New Leadership

The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit is pleased to welcome Dick Rappleye to our Board of Directors!

Stories of Courage – Padmaja Rao

Courage is more than a single act of bravery, it is a value we nurture and practice over time. In this reflection, IFLC Board Member Padmaja Rao explores what courage looks like in everyday life:speaking up against stereotypes, crossing cultural and religious divides, having difficult conversations, standing up for others, and continuing forward when life feels heavy.

July 2026 Newsletter

Highlights

  • Visit to the Jackson Home at Greenfield Village – August 23, 2026
  • Bridging the Divide – August 15 and August 22, 2026
  • Ask a Zoroastrian: Discover an Ancient Living Tradition – August 27, 2026
  • Interfaith Odyssey: Explore Buddhism
    • September 23 | 6:00–8:30 p.m.
    • Midwest Buddhist Meditation Center
    • 29750 Ryan Rd, Warren, MI 48092

Stories of Courage

From a Dodge Demon to Deep Healing
Courage doesn’t always look the way we imagine. Sometimes, courage looks like asking for help, accepting support, and choosing to keep going.

May 2026 Newsletter

Featured Story:
Op Ed on America’s 250 and InterFaith Unity by Victor Begg, former IFLC Board member

Key Upcoming Events

  • Interfaith Odysseys: Experience Judaism Beyond the Headlines
  • Interfaith Impact 2026: Building a Courageous Community
  • Urban-Suburban Interfaith Picnic

Community Programs & Spotlights

  • Journeys: World Religions of Metropolitan Detroit: Features “Journeys: A Season of Celebration,” a initiative highlighting the diverse regional faith traditions.
  • Nissan Foundation Partnership: Acknowledges the Nissan Foundation’s role in connecting communities and lists grant recipients spanning from 1992 through 2025.
  • Faith and Works Podcast: Promotes a new episode alert titled “Care for the Stranger: Who Cares
    Community Connections: Highlights local cultural connections, including welcoming the Jackson Home to Greenfield Village and a Greek Party event.

April 2026 Newsletter

Here is a summary of the events, programs, and highlights from the InterFaith Leadership Council (IFLC) of Metropolitan Detroit’s April 2026 newsletter:

New Media & Content

  • “Real Stories. Shared Humanity. COURAGE” Blog Series: The IFLC has introduced a new blog series. The featured story is titled “Bob Bruttell: The Courage to Know One Another”.
  • Faith and Works Podcast: Features the next installment in their series, titled “A Conversation That Still Matters”.

Upcoming Events & Education

Interfaith Odysseys
The council is extending an invitation to two distinct “Interfaith Odysseys” events:

  • Explores Islam: Attendees can discover Islam in Metro Detroit at the Islamic Center of America. This event takes place on Wednesday, May 13, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
  • Explores Judaism: An event to discover Judaism in Metro Detroit hosted at Temple Beth El. This event has been rescheduled for a Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, with all proceeds supporting the Temple Current Rebuilding Fund.

Community Gatherings & Summits

  • Baha’i Education Event: Scheduled for April 29th.
  • National Day of Prayer: Marked for May 7, 2026.
  • Help for the Helpers: Equipped to Serve Summit: An upcoming summit scheduled for Tuesday, May 12.
  • Interfaith Impact 2026: Titled “Building a Courageous Community,” this year’s focus is on “Courage”. The event will take place on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Additional Programs

Journeys: Continued programming for “Journeys: World Religions of Metropolitan Detroit”.

March 2026 Newsletter

The March 2026 newsletter from the InterFaith Leadership Council (IFLC) of Metro Detroit highlights several key events, educational opportunities, and community updates:

Featured Story: Steve Spreitzer

The newsletter celebrates Steve Spreitzer, who was recently honored at the Distinguished Warriors Dinner by the Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan. The feature emphasizes Steve’s lifetime of service, leadership in advancing social justice, and his willingness to lead with humility and courage. It also includes a personal “Lesson in Courage” story shared by Steve about a moment that tested his courage and transformed his understanding of leadership.

Upcoming Events and Registration

  • Bridging to Belonging Orientation: A structured, small-group experience to build trust and understanding across differences.
  • Sacred Paths of India: An immersive bus tour of Jain, Hindu, and Sikh traditions.
    • Date: Friday, April 10, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Interfaith Odysseys: Discover Islam: A visit to the largest mosque in the U.S..
    • Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 6:00–8:30 PM
  • DION Theater Night Fundraiser: Final call for tickets to the fundraiser at Stagecrafters.

Program & Community Highlights

  • Journeys Program: Highlighted for its recent presentation at the Royal Oak School District Board meeting, where students shared their experiences with experiential learning and building empathy.
  • Faith and Works Podcast: Features Episode 22, “Care for Others: Charity or Commandment?”, discussing faith traditions and compassion.
  • Health Equity Partnerships:
    • Faith Community Nursing Network (FCNN): A Henry Ford Health program focused on whole-person care and supporting health ministries in congregations.
    • “Rooted in Justice & Joy”: DMC initiatives for Black Maternal Health Week, including a Community Baby Shower on April 13 and “Dinner with Doulas” on April 17.

February 2026 Newsletter

The February 2026 newsletter highlights the Interfaith Day of Unity, emphasizing that courage is not always loud or dramatic—sometimes it is shown quietly through friendship and solidarity. In the aftermath of October 7, when fear, grief, and uncertainty spread globally, including among Jewish and Muslim communities, interfaith partners Bryant and Walid chose connection over division. Rather than retreat into silence or distance, they demonstrated resilience through continued friendship and dialogue. The newsletter underscores the power of relationships in difficult times and reinforces the importance of unity, empathy, and interfaith collaboration as pathways toward healing and understanding.

Upcoming Events:

  • Interfaith Odysseys: An exploration of Judaism at Temple Beth El, Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 6:00–8:30 p.m.
  • Interfaith Day of Unity: on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
  • Theater Night for a Cause!: The annual DION Theater Night Fundraiser featuring the musical Fiddler on the Roof at Stagecrafters Theater on Thursday, April 23rd, at 7:30 PM.

January 2026 Newsletter

The January, 2026 newsletter features a reflection titled “Let’s Talk About Courage” by Rev. Stancy Adams, who calls for courage grounded in faith, compassion, and values as essential for building belonging and healing division.

It announces several upcoming events:

  • Education Event: “Remembering the Unfinished American Revolution,” on February 2nd.
  • Interfaith Odysseys: An exploration of Judaism at Temple Beth El, Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 6:00–8:30 p.m.
  • Interfaith Day of Unity: on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
  • Theater Night for a Cause!: The annual DION Theater Night Fundraiser featuring the musical Fiddler on the Roof at Stagecrafters Theater on Thursday, April 23rd, at 7:30 PM.

Additionally, the newsletter promotes:

  • Faith and Works Podcast: Episode 7, “The Legacy of Martin Luther King: Can We Hear Him Now?”
  • Interfaith Connections: Information about the start of Ramadan 2026 on the evening of Tuesday, February 17th, and lists several related community events like the Pre-Ramadan Bazaar (Feb 7), the 13th Annual Fastathon (Feb 25), Canton Michigan Ramadan Bazaar (Mar 8), and a Ramadan Iftaar Dinner (Feb 28).

December 2025 Newsletter

The December 2025 newsletter from the InterFaith Leadership Council (IFLC) highlights recent initiatives, community events, and leadership updates, emphasizing interfaith collaboration and community engagement. ​
Steve Spreitzer, a seasoned community organizer, has joined IFLC, focusing on interfaith leadership and collaboration. ​

  • The upcoming Interfaith Day of Unity on March 22, 2026, aims to foster community connections and celebrate diversity. ​
  • Recent events, like the Interfaith Odyssey at St. John Armenian Church and the Livonia Thanksgiving Service showcased cultural exchange and dialogue, enhancing understanding among participants. ​
  • IFLC’s “Bridging to Belonging” program promotes respectful dialogue among adults, while the “Journeys” program has reached over 580 student and the latest episode of Faith And Works podcast discuses the ethical implications of AI

End of Year Letter Newsletter

This Giving Tuesday we invite you to support the InterFaith Leadership Council, Our unique programs foster dialogue and understanding, bridging gaps between diverse communities. With your support we can continue to promote peace and reduce discrimination in our society. Together let’s build a just and harmonious future.

October 2025 Newsletter

Discover the exciting new membership program offered by IFLC, providing exclusive learning opportunities, free museum passes and event discounts. Join us in fostering a community of connection and belonging. Sign up today!

September 2025 Newsletter

Our September Newsletter highlights the importance of interfaith connection and community building . From the Interfaith Impact 2025 recap to the upcoming Bridging to Belonging conversations , we emphasize the need for resilience and collaboration across differences. Join us in fostering a compassionate community.

July 2025 Newsletter

In our July Newsletter, we celebrate leadership and community engagement. Congratulations to Dion Williams, a true example of excellence in interfaith work. Join us for events like “Interfaith Odysseys” and “A Case for Love” film screening that foster unity and understanding across diverse backgrounds. Together, we can bridge gaps and strengthen connections.

June 2025 Newsletter

The June Newsletter highlights our commitment to building connections through the “Bridging to Belonging” initiative. Join us for the film screening of “A Case for Love” and upcoming workshops aimed at fostering community cohesion. Our efforts focus on interfaith collaboration and addressing issues of division in society.

May 2025 Newsletter

This newsletter highlights upcoming programs like InterFaith Odysseys and Bridging to Belonging. These initiatives aim to deepen community connections through cultural and spiritual explorations. Join us for guided tours, discussions, and shared experiences that foster understanding and growth.

April 2025 Newsletter

Learn about engaging events like the FREE film screening of UNDIVIDE US and our Bridging to Belonging group discussions. These initiatives aim to foster civil dialogue and strengthen community ties. Participate in meaningful conversations and build connections across differences.

InterFaith Day of Unity Newsletter

A heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the Interfaith Day of Unity. Your presence signifies a collective commitment to peace and resilience. We invite you to save the date for the next event on March 1, 2026 at the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter-day Saints in Bloomfield Hills. Together we can foster understanding and belonging in our communities.

March 2025 Newsletter

Explore the importance of interfaith dialogue in our March newsletter. We have exciting events lined up, including cultural explorations and workshops aimed at bridging the divide. Join us for meaningful conversations that foster understanding and unity within diverse communities.

February 2025 Newsletter

Participate in our virtual movie screening adn engage in meaningful discussions about bridging divides. Share your thoughts on Unity and explore programs like the Arab American National Museum tour. Let’s build a stronger community together.

 STANDOUT NEWSLETTERS FROM 2024

December Newsletters

Read about our upcoming events, programs, and more in the IFLC’s December Newsletters

December 5th: Holocaust Education Event: Stories and History

Join the IFLC’s Education Committee at The Zekelman Holocaust Center on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM for a meaningful experience exploring Holocaust history.

Highlights include:

  • A docent-led tour of updated exhibits
  • Survivor talk by Irene Miller
  • Tribute to Holocaust victims

Event runs 2:00 PM – 4:15 PM. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and reflect.

December 3rd: Support the InterFaith Leadership Council on Giving Tuesday

Join the global day of giving and help the InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit foster meaningful connections and celebrate diversity in our community.

Your contribution makes an impact:

  • $50: Helps a congregation participate in the Interfaith Day of Unity.
  • $150: Sponsors a student in the Religious Diversity Journeys program.
  • $500: Supports an educational event hosted by the Education Committee.
  • $1,250: Funds a Bridging to Belonging program group in a community.

Every donation counts! Show Your Support Today

November Newsletters

November 25th: Event Announcement: “The Power of Bridging” Book Launch

Join us on December 3rd for a special book launch event celebrating the release of “The Power of Bridging.”

Highlights include:

  • An inspiring fireside chat with john a. powell
  • Signed copies of the book available for purchase
  • Opportunities to connect with fellow bridge builders

This free event is open to everyone, but time is running out to register!

November 20th: InterFaith Leadership Council’s November Newsletter

The November 2024 IFLC Newsletter highlights articles such as “Moving Through Conflict to a Future of Belonging,” which explores transforming conflict into opportunities for connection and “Thriving Together: The Power of Community and Belonging”. Faith and Works unveils a new podcast episode, offering insights into stories of faith in action. This month’s newsletter also brings attention to the 2024 Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration, bringing Metro Detroit faith communities together in gratitude and unity, and the Eastern Odyssey Bus Tour, where participants experienced Sikh traditions and Gatka performances. Additionally, the Interfaith Health Equity Partnership shares vital vaccine resources and the launch of a Prenatal and Postnatal Care Resource Library, advancing health equity for underserved communities.

October Newsletter

October 21st: InterFaith Leadership Council’s October Newsletter

The October 2024 IFLC Newsletter features reflections from Bob Bruttell on the challenges Springfield, Ohio faces with Haitian refugees, drawing parallels to Detroit’s diverse immigrant communities. Faith and Works highlights a podcast episode that discusses the threats to democracy and diversity ahead of the November 5th election, emphasizing the importance of interfaith communities in safeguarding core values. This month’s newsletter also recaps events such as the screening of Undivide Us, promoting dialogue amidst political division, the kickoff of the Religious Diversity Journeys program, where students visited a Sikh Gurdwara and a mosque to explore Sikhism and Islam, and the Eastern Odyssey tour, which explored Buddhist and Hindu traditions, fostering spiritual and intellectual growth. Lastly, the Interfaith Health Equity Partnership shared progress on maternal health initiatives.

September Newsletter

September 17th: InterFaith Leadership Council’s September Newsletter

The September newsletter highlights the Faith and Works podcast episode, “Are Our Children Sacred Today?”, which explores whether society truly values children. The InterFaith Leadership Council’s Education Committee is promoting understanding through an interfaith bus tour, “Eastern Odyssey”, featuring Buddhism and Hinduism. Additional upcoming events include the screening of “UNDIVIDE US”, addressing toxic polarization and how communities can reconnect. The Interfaith Health Equity Partnership is working to bridge healthcare gaps, with a focus on maternal and infant health advancement. The IFLC’s Religious Diversity Journeys program continues to transform students’ curiosity into compassion through immersive interfaith experiences.

August Newsletter

August 19th: Faith in Community: Celebrating Unity in Metropolitan Detroit

The August newsletter edition features a new podcast episode exploring the sacredness of friendships, putting a Muslim-Jewish friendship in the spotlight. The InterFaith Leadership Council’s Education Committee continues to bridge divides through immersive programs, while upcoming events include a film screening on polarization and a discussion on politics and personal relationships. The Interfaith Health Equity Partnership has been actively engaging communities this summer, and the Religious Diversity Journeys Program is expanding to reach more students. Additionally, the DION Urban-Suburban Interfaith Picnic celebrated unity across Metro Detroit

July Newsletter

July 14th: Interfaith Friendships, Cultural Tours, and Community Health Programs

The Faith and Works Podcast features the story of Dr. Saeed Khan and Dr. Howard Lupovitch, a Muslim and a Jew who have maintained a deep friendship amidst contentious politics. Recent events include a tour of the Jain Society of Greater Detroit, where participants explored Jain principles and traditions, and the launch of the Polarization Detox Challenge, encouraging daily exercises to reduce stress and foster community connections. The Religious Diversity Journeys program took students to the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Dawoodi Bohra community to engage with diverse religious traditions. Upcoming on September 27th is an education program on Sikhism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. The Interfaith Health Equity Partnership highlighted the new Crisis Care Center in Detroit, offering 24/7 mental health services. Maternal and infant health disparities are being addressed through Kerisha Henderson’s outreach program in partnership with local churches. The Nissan Foundation awarded a grant to support the Religious Diversity Journeys program, and the DION Urban-Suburban Interfaith Community Picnic is scheduled for July 28, 2024, celebrating unity and diversity.

June Newsletters

June 30th: Save the Date for The Eastern Odyssey Bus Tour and Join the Polarization Detox Challenge

The Bridging to Belonging Program invites you to participate in the Social Polarization Detox Challenge, starting July 1st, with daily exercises to reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and promote community unity. The IFLC co-sponsors the Urban-Suburban Interfaith Community Picnic, emphasizing diversity and connection through food and activities. IFLC’s Maternal Infant Health Advancement initiative, made possible with grant funding from Southeast Michigan Perinatal Quality Improvement Coalition, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and United Way for Southeastern Michigan, provides communities with a Prenatal and Postnatal Care Resource Library, aimed at empowering expectant mothers and community health advocates with essential information for healthier pregnancy outcomes and early parenthood support.

June 16th: Embracing Juneteenth Through Interfaith Unity, Friendship in Faith & Works Podcast, and IFLC’s New Prenatal Library Launch

Celebrating Juneteenth across all faith traditions, emphasizing its significance in the ongoing journey toward freedom and justice. Stay tuned for IFLC’s Polarization Series, “From Conflict to Connection”, aimed at bridging societal divides through dialogue, featuring virtual and in-person events. The upcoming Faith & Works podcast episode explores the sacred nature of friendships between Muslims and Jews in times of crisis. Additionally, the IFLC introduces a free Prenatal Library offering expert advice to support new parents and families.

June 4th: Unite, Reflect, Inspire: Join Us at the IFLC’s Annual Meeting!

Join us for the InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit’s Annual Interfaith Impact Meeting on June 11th, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at The Islamic Center of America in Dearborn. This gathering is a chance to celebrate our accomplishments, set goals for the future, and collaborate on new initiatives. Guest speakers and interactive sessions will enhance connections and foster collaboration. Our complimentary event welcomes adults of all ages, races, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds. Refreshments will be provided.

May Newsletters

May 23rd: IFLC Cordially Invites You: 2024 Interfaith Impact

We are delighted to invite you to the InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit’s Annual Meeting, which will be held on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. at The Islamic Center of America. This year’s meeting will be an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, discuss our goals for the upcoming year, and collaborate on new initiatives. We will also have the pleasure of hearing from guest speakers and participating in interactive sessions designed to foster connection and collaboration.

May 18th: IFLC Launches Maternal Infant Health Advancement and Invites You to Multiple Upcoming Events

The InterFaith Leadership Council (IFLC), alongside Catholic Charities and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is co-sponsoring a seminar on housing resources by MSHDA and MDHHS on May 30th at Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Livonia, aiming to assist faith leaders in addressing housing issues. Additionally, the IFLC is launching “Bridging the Gaps Where We Belong: Maternal Infant Health Advancement,” focusing on providing critical health education, particularly in maternal health and chronic conditions like hypertension, which disproportionately affect BiPoc communities. Furthermore, the IFLC invites participation in “Explore the Jain Society of Greater Detroit,” a tour on June 9th featuring the Jain Temple’s architecture, history, Sunday prayers, and a vegetarian lunch, fostering interfaith understanding and unity.

April Newsletters

April 28th: Registration Deadline Approaches for the Underground Railroad Tour

Join us for an immersive Underground Railroad Bus Tour in Detroit, tracing the footsteps of freedom seekers and abolitionists. Registration closes on May 2nd for the May 10th departure from St. John’s Episcopal Church, Royal Oak, MI. Additionally, the InterFaith Leadership Council recently hosted a film screening of LIST(e)N, emphasizing the power of intentional listening, while their Education Committee launched a new webpage highlighting their achievements. Plus, students from the Religious Diversity Journeys program explored St. John Armenian Church, fostering critical thinking and interfaith dialogue.

April 14th: Save the Date for an Upcoming Underground Railroad Tour and Get Ready for National Conversation Week

The National Week of Conversation, in collaboration with Listen First Project, underscores the significance of dialogue in fostering understanding amidst differences, encouraging engagement in diverse events and discussions celebrating the power of conversation. Highlighting this initiative is the National Conversation Week from April 15th to 21st, featuring notable events like the IFLC’s film screening of “LIST(e)N)” on April 17th at the Plymouth District Library. In May, join the IFLC on an intriguing bus tour exploring Detroit’s Underground Railroad. In other news, the IFLC’s Education Committee proudly launches its new web page, offering a platform to showcase its accomplishments and future endeavors.

March Newsletters

March 24th: Save the Date for an Upcoming Underground Railroad Tour and Get Ready for National Conversation Week

The National Week of Conversation, in partnership with Bridging to Belonging community partner Listen First Project, highlights the importance of dialogue in bridging differences. The initiative encourages participation in events, learning activities, panel discussions, and collaborations celebrating the power of conversation. One of the featured experiences is the National Conversation Week, running from April 15th to 21st. Notably, the IFLC is hosting a film screening event on April 17th at the Plymouth District Library, showcasing the award-winning film “LIST(e)N.” Additionally, the IFLC is hosting another an intriguing event: a bus tour of Detroit’s Underground Railroad. This tour promises to offer participants a unique historical perspective and an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about the past and its relevance to the present.

March 10th: Save the Date for an Upcoming Underground Railroad Tour and Read about Celebrating Shared Traditions in Fasting

Local high school senior and author Zachary Rodger celebrated the launch of his book “Fasting: An Interfaith Exploration” with a diverse interfaith panel discussing fasting practices in Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. The event promoted unity, understanding, and respect through interfaith dialogue, emphasizing the significance of connecting through shared traditions. Additionally, an upcoming bus tour by the InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit will explore the city’s Underground Railroad landmarks on May 10th, 2024.

February Newsletters

February 24th: Read About an Important Announcement on World Sabbath Day and Joining us to Celebrate an Interfaith Book Launch

The 2024 World Sabbath of Religious Reconciliation, originally set for March 3rd in Troy, is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances. The organizers apologize for any disappointment and express their commitment to fostering peace. The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit invites participation in upcoming events, including an exclusive Book Launch of “Fasting: An Interfaith Exploration” by emerging author Zachary Rodger, and the 82nd Annual Rabbi B. Benedict & Ada S. Glazer Institute on Judaism, aimed at promoting understanding and dialogue across faiths.

February 10th: Save the Date! Join us for an Upcoming Book Launch!

Celebrate the book launch of “Fasting: An Interfaith Exploration” by Zachary Rodger on February 25th at the West Bloomfield Public Library. Hosted by the InterFaith Leadership Council, the event includes an interfaith panel discussion, refreshments, and a chance to connect. Catch up on the live panel discussion on AI and the sacred on the Faith & Works Podcast. Stay tuned for the event recording release and check the website for upcoming local events, including an Interfaith Dinner celebrating religious diversity.

January Newsletters

January 27th: Save the Dates! Join us for an Upcoming Book Launch and World Sabbath Day!

Celebrate the book launch of “Fasting: An Interfaith Exploration” by Zachary Rodger on February 25th at the West Bloomfield Public Library. Hosted by the InterFaith Leadership Council, the event includes an interfaith panel discussion, refreshments, and a chance to connect. Don’t miss the Annual World Sabbath on March 3rd at Bharatiya Temple in Troy. Catch up on the live panel discussion on AI and the sacred on the Faith & Works Podcast. Stay tuned for the event recording release and check the website for upcoming local events, including an Interfaith Dinner celebrating religious diversity.

January 13th: Expressing Gratitude to IFLC Friends and Highlighting MLK Day Events

Expressing gratitude to donors, volunteers, and supporters, the InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit reflects on the achievements in fostering understanding and unity in 2023. Contributions have played a crucial role in shaping inclusive communities, and the council looks forward to continuing the journey of interfaith education and understanding together. Join their inaugural live podcast discussion on January 18th, exploring the impact of AI on sacred aspects, featuring industry experts Prof. Chris Gilliard, Prof. Saeed Khan, and Prof. David Koukal.

 STANDOUT NEWSLETTERS FROM 2023

The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit reflects on its accomplishments in 2023, highlighting successful programs like the Religious Diversity Journeys engaging 400 students and collaboration with john a. powell at The Henry Ford. The Education Committee’s events, including the Detroit Religious Heritage Bus Tour, saw immense interest, while the Interfaith Health Equity Partnership concentrated on mental health challenges. The newsletter concludes with prayers for peace, emphasizing the council’s unwavering commitment to interfaith work in challenging times.

The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit, in its year-end appeal, expresses gratitude for past support and urges donors to contribute to the organization. Highlighting achievements such as Bridging to Belonging cohorts, Religious Diversity Journeys, and the Detroit Faith and Works podcast, the letter emphasizes the unique challenges faced in the current year due to conflicts in Israel and Gaza, resulting in increased Islamophobia and antisemitism. Despite personal differences, the Muslim and Jewish board members emphasize the importance of interfaith work in addressing these challenges and fostering understanding in diverse communities.

The Interfaith Thanksgiving Service at St. Faustina Catholic Church in Warren brought together the community for a heartwarming celebration of unity and gratitude, emphasizing the strength derived from understanding diverse backgrounds. Featuring presentations from various faiths and support from Mayor Lori Stone, the event highlighted shared values and unity. Father Bogdan Milosz, Pastor of St. Faustina Parish, concluded with a message of love and acceptance, showcasing the power of diverse voices coming together during the Thanksgiving season
In the midst of the ongoing conflict, the InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit extends a heartfelt prayer for healing, peace, and unity. Expressing deep sorrow for the pain witnessed in the lives of friends, the prayer calls for compassion, understanding, and the creation of common ground and bridges among communities. Centering on the universal pursuit of peace, the prayer seeks God’s guidance to overcome fear, anger, and trauma, and to foster a spirit of compassion, comfort, and understanding in troubled times.
The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metro Detroit, in collaboration with the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, organized a complimentary gathering at the Henry Ford Museum titled “Building Horizons: Embracing Differences and Finding Belonging.” This event explored the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, highlighting his commitment to justice, equality, and reconciliation, which continued to inspire global efforts for a more just and peaceful world. The gathering featured john a. powell, a Detroit native and Director of the Othering and Belonging Institute at the University of California Berkeley, who is renowned for his expertise in civil rights, civil liberties, structural racism, housing, poverty, and democracy.
The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit organized the Detroit’s Sacred Spaces Bus Tour, exploring three significant places of worship in the city: First Congregational Detroit, Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, and Bethel A.M.E. The tour highlighted the diverse history and contributions of each location, emphasizing the intersection of faith, social justice, and Detroit’s history. The event aimed to deepen understanding of religious diversity in Detroit, celebrating shared values and traditions that contribute to the city’s cultural and spiritual landscape. Additionally, Religious Diversity Journeys, a program by the IFLC, is returning for its second year, welcoming nearly 400 students from 15 schools to explore the beliefs and practices of Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Sikhism through immersive learning experiences in sacred spaces.
We were delighted to have extended a warm invitation to join us for the Urban-Suburban Interfaith Picnic, a joyous celebration of unity, diversity, and friendship that took place on Sunday, July 30th, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Palmer Park, 910 Merrill Plaisance. The gathering occurred near the splash pad, bringing together individuals from various faiths and beliefs to transcend boundaries and build bridges of harmony. The event featured activities for all ages, including a community potluck, music, DJ, dancing, bingo, games, crafts for kids, and face painting, creating a delightful experience that celebrated the similarities uniting us as one human family.
The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit successfully hosted its 23rd Annual World Sabbath of Reconciliation on March 19, 2023, at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, drawing hundreds of participants from various faith communities. The event provided a platform for religious leaders to share insights into prayer and worship practices, fostering understanding of traditions such as Jewish, Jain, Hindu, Baha’i, Christian, Quaker, Zoroastrian, Mormon, and Sikh. Raman Singh, Executive Director of IFLC, received the World Sabbath Peacemaker Award for her dedication, while children from diverse faiths showcased handmade peace banners during the Children of Peace processional, emphasizing unity and hope for a diverse future. The Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit, in its commitment to the value of “mutuality,” organized a panel discussion on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. The event aimed to explore the core principles of Holy Week/Easter, Passover, and Ramadan, major holidays in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, respectively. Representatives from each religious community participated, sharing insights and fostering meaningful reflections on the significance of these holy days for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.