A pastor, a rabbi and an imam walk into a room…
No, it’s not a joke. It’s what takes place at the Saugatuck Congregational Church this Sunday (Sept. 26, 4 p.m.).
The Interfaith Amigos. Can you guess which one is the imam, pastor and rabbi?
Pastor Don Mackenzie, Rabbi Ted Falcon and Imam Jamal Rahman — all from Seattle — were brought together by 9/11. They shared mutual respect, and a willingness to question the teachings of their own faith traditions.
Then they took their show on the road.
Their message — of deep hope and profound possibilities for healing — has been delivered to audiences in the U.S., Israel-Palestine (hey, that’s what the press release says), and Japan.
The Interfaith Amigos promise “insightful dialogue, discussion of the sameness and differences within each faith, wisdom and of course, a sense of humor.”
Neither shy nor timid, they discuss religious teachings and actions contrary to the core teaching of their faiths in areas like violence, gender inequality and homophobia.
They’ll address — with spiritual wisdom and humor — “awkward” parts of each tradition. Is Jesus the only way? Are Jews really the chosen people? And what’s up with the Koran, anyway?
Sunday’s event includes a 90-minute discussion, and 30 minutes of questions. There will be refreshments.
The event is free.
Just bring an open mind.
(“The Interfaith Amigos” is sponsored by the Westport/Weston Interfaith Council, with generous donations from the George Mangold Lecture Series and Temple Israel.)
Well intentioned, but ultimately fruitless exercise.