Overview

In this book, a high school student provides an intimate look at the interfaith community of Southern California through in-depth interviews with 15 prominent religious leaders. Spanning different faith traditions from Buddhism to Christianity, these insightful conversations reveal five common themes that unite us all: creativity, memory, community, social justice, and love. Each chapter focuses on one of these unifying virtues, beginning with the author's thoughtful reflections on that theme and how it manifests across religions. Readers gain a nuanced understanding of the diverse religious landscape after reading the personal stories and wisdom of renowned figures like the President of the Southern California Interreligious Council and the Chair of the UN Multi-Faith Advisory Board. From the rich history of local congregations to pressing current issues like gender equality, immigration, and activism, this book explores the intersections of religion, culture, and society. Written from an inquisitive youth perspective, it encourages meaningful interfaith dialogue and collaboration to overcome polarization. An illuminating tour through the thriving spiritual community of Southern California.

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9781962316002

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Reviews

"We live in a world too often riven by the consequences of calcified beliefs and behaviors. Unfortunately, the religious traditions many of us hold dear have contributed to these separations and conflicts. But Jenny Wang reminds us that is not the full story. In fact, Ms. Wang shows us that spiritual traditions, at their core, offer a multi-dimensional path leading toward openness and generosity that crosses boundaries formed by culture, geography, and systems of practice and perception. She guides us along that path, as she allows religious leaders to describe the beating heart of truth and love that animates each one's life and work. In hearing their stories - and in asking ourselves the questions Ms. Wang poses -- we will begin to recall how we, too, can more fully contribute to ways of understanding, compassion, healing, and freedom in our own communities and beyond."" - Andrew Dreitcer, Ph.D Vice President for Academics, Claremont School of Theology ""This book is an important contribution to interreligious dialogue in Southern California. Through her exploration in dialogues with various religious leaders, Jenny Wang shows us that compassion is an important foundation in understanding the religious others. Her respectful questions, and openness to learn from the other constitute excellent practice of interreligious dialogue. Jenny will be an important interfaith scholar-activist in the future, of that I am sure."" - Lailatul Fitriyah, Ph.D Assistant Professor of Interreligious Education, Claremont School of Theology ""This is a special book written by an extraordinary young mind. Just read the introduction, and I think you will see what I mean. Open to learning at every turn, Jenny Wang has set out to understand her faith by connecting with others. Inspired by oral history, Jenny draws on myriad educational experiences posing thoughtful questions and listening with curiosity."" - Theresa Ann Smith, Ph.D Head, The Webb Schools"

Author Information

Jenny Wang is a senior at The Webb Schools in Claremont, CA, focused on journalism and her Editor-in-Chief position for the SNO-recognized school publication, Webb Canyon Chronicle. She worked as an intern staff writer for the Claremont Courier and runs her own podcast, Universal Faith, available on Spotify and Apple Podcast. Jenny attended the Cherub Program at Medill Northwestern Journalism Institute this past summer with an eye towards a career in advocacy journalism. When she isn't reporting or writing, Jenny enjoys hiking with her family, watching old movies, and exploring local restaurants.

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