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Many Faiths Lead to a Common Heart |
by Gail Carson
ITHACA, NY - It is the monthly second-Sunday gathering of the Common Heart Interfaith Fellowship. “Welcome, come in” a smiling greeter says. The room is warm and inviting. Colorful cushions on the floor, chairs with beautiful blankets over them, await participants young and old.
Symbols from many religious traditions adorn the walls. Candles flicker. The altar reflects tonight’s theme, on which Rev. Jody Kessler, minister and director, will lead a spiritual exploration. These gatherings honor diverse traditions with devotional singing, inspirational readings and poetry, guided meditation, reflective silence, and simple ritual.
The Interfaith philosophy recognizes that there are many ways to connect with spiritual presence, and Common Heart embraces no one religious path above any other. Through hands-on exploration, practice and teaching, the Fellowship serves as a welcoming spiritual community that celebrates the many beautiful faiths that grace the human spiritual garden. Sometimes there is simply a huge bowl of water where prayer candles float as members send silent or voiced prayers out. Other times, art supplies are provided for creative expression. There may be photos of loved ones on the altar, in memory or to celebrate a new birth. No mighty pipe organ and high pulpit, just down to earth and up to heaven simplicity and peace.
At some celebrations, Jody helps the members mine the deep sadnesses that are part of the human condition. Other celebrations focus on lightness, humor, insight. Whether in laughter or tears, song or poetry, the Common Heart Interfaith Fellowship is a healing place, celebrating many paths toward the One.
Contact www.commonheart.org
ITHACA, NY - It is the monthly second-Sunday gathering of the Common Heart Interfaith Fellowship. “Welcome, come in” a smiling greeter says. The room is warm and inviting. Colorful cushions on the floor, chairs with beautiful blankets over them, await participants young and old.
Symbols from many religious traditions adorn the walls. Candles flicker. The altar reflects tonight’s theme, on which Rev. Jody Kessler, minister and director, will lead a spiritual exploration. These gatherings honor diverse traditions with devotional singing, inspirational readings and poetry, guided meditation, reflective silence, and simple ritual.
The Interfaith philosophy recognizes that there are many ways to connect with spiritual presence, and Common Heart embraces no one religious path above any other. Through hands-on exploration, practice and teaching, the Fellowship serves as a welcoming spiritual community that celebrates the many beautiful faiths that grace the human spiritual garden. Sometimes there is simply a huge bowl of water where prayer candles float as members send silent or voiced prayers out. Other times, art supplies are provided for creative expression. There may be photos of loved ones on the altar, in memory or to celebrate a new birth. No mighty pipe organ and high pulpit, just down to earth and up to heaven simplicity and peace.
At some celebrations, Jody helps the members mine the deep sadnesses that are part of the human condition. Other celebrations focus on lightness, humor, insight. Whether in laughter or tears, song or poetry, the Common Heart Interfaith Fellowship is a healing place, celebrating many paths toward the One.
Contact www.commonheart.org
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