The October 2016 issue of Bridges provides a detailed report on Youth PoWR (Parliament of the World’s Religions). This initiative of the Columban Mission Institute is in its second year. Already it is the largest multi-faith gathering of youth aged 18-35 in Australia. It is by youth, for youth, with youth. It is prepared by a team of young people from different religions, meeting monthly from the start of the year, who organise the event, the speakers, the performers, the message, the promotion, the process, the venue, the catering.
Nearly 400 people from 8 different religions came together in North Sydney on the 3rd of September to reflect on the role of their religions in together creating a more compassionate and just society. They voted on proposals to civic and religious leaders as well as making their own commitments. In a very moving moment, all the participants stood together in silence for one minute - each one praying, meditating, reflecting according to his or her own religion - believers from different religions all united in one devotion to God, to the Transcendent, to the Ultimate Mystery.
Contents:
- Youth PoWR 2016: Cabinet (Coordinating Committee) and a Summary Account (p. 4-5)
- Youth PoWR 2016: Message Towards a More Compassionate and Just World (p. 6-7)
- Youth PoWR 2016: Proposals to Civic Leaders (p. 8-9)
- Youth PoWR 2016: Proposals to Religious Leaders (p. 10-11)
- Youth PoWR 2016: Youth Commitments (p. 12-13)
- News from the Centre (p. 2)
- News from the World (p. 15)
- Coming Events (p. 16)
- The Editorial shows how all of the above activities are “Signs of Hope” for a more compassionate and just world (p. 1)
Blessings,
Rev Dr Patrick McInerney
Coordinator, Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations
Columban Mission Institute