Interreligious/Interfaith Studies: Defining a New Field

Interfaith Youth Core president Patel (Acts of Faith) coedits with Peace, member of the American Academy of Religion, and Silverman, director of Interfaith Youth Core, this definitive collection of essays in the budding academic field of interreligious and interfaith studies. Eighteen scholars and practitioners in the interfaith community, including staff at Interfaith Youth Core and the Harvard Pluralism Project, contribute essays on a variety of religious topics; some focus on secular teachers leading interfaith courses in public institutions, while others consider the perspective of a religious teacher or scholar. Elon professor Amy L. Allocco reminds readers that “studying dynamics of political power is essential for understanding the encounters between different communities” and therefore to interfaith studies. One particularly helpful essay, from Shenandoah University professor Kevin Minister, provides strategies for introducing interreligious studies into the classroom. Though the book will be most valuable as part of religion coursework, practical activities for interfaith activists and teachers—such as role-playing, service learning, and internship suggestions—are also included. This is a powerful and essential tool for incorporating interfaith studies into a variety of settings. (Aug.)