How to Do Interfaith: Basics For Pagan Beginners, Part 2

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http://www.patheos.com/blogs/wildgarden/2014/05/how-to-do-interfaith-basics-for-pagan-beginners-part-2/

May 7, 2014 By Holli Emore

Interfaith got you curious? Feel like moving from the wading pool to the deep end of the pool? So what do you do next?

1. Look for an existing interfaith group in your area. You’d be surprised how many groups are already out there. Sometimes they are languishing, needing new energy such as yours. And then again, some groups call themselves interfaith, but are really a consortium of inter-denominational Christian ministers (more properly called ecumenical), or an alliance of Jews, Christians and Muslims. But interfaith has flowered in places you may not expect, like Lexington, Kentucky, which hosted the Dalai Lama last year in its humongous annual city-wide event. Even here in South Carolina, Christians, Pagans, Sikhs, Muslims and many more are forming clusters around the state. You might also try contacting the North American Interfaith Network (NAIN) to ask for their help. Note that in some cities women have taken the initiative, so you may discover women-only interfaith gatherings. In my city, we are called Women of Many Faiths. The group doesn’t advertise, so you only learn about it by word of mouth. Poke around, and if you can’t find anything, email me to see if I can smoke out some contacts for you through my channels.

2. If there is a local function happening, go to it. Introduce yourself to everyone that you can. Take cards to give them with your name and contact information, and be sure to get the same from those you meet. When you go home, write them to say how much you enjoyed it, and ask when is the next event. Ask how you can help.

3. If nothing seems to be happening, identify one or two individuals who seem to have been key to past efforts. Contact them and ask to have coffee. Tell them you really want to learn more.

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