Union for Reform Judaism’s Post

Check out my latest article on the challenges to religious freedom in Iraq and the critical need for action. Learn how grassroots initiatives are making a difference and why support for these efforts is crucial. https://lnkd.in/d5HEbRc9

This report written by Annika Johanna Scharnagl and Daniela Pisoiu highlights the increase in violence against religious institutions in Europe, particularly affecting Jewish and Muslim communities following conflicts such as the Israel-Hamas war. The report also notes a correlation with the rise of right-wing factions, indicating a concerning trend towards discriminatory beliefs in society. It is concluded that urgent scholarly and policy interventions are necessary to address these challenges. This emphasises the need for comprehensive interfaith dialogues and educational initiatives to mitigate emerging threats and uphold the values of religious freedom and social cohesion in contemporary European societies. 👇 https://lnkd.in/dyZdfaqQ

Religious freedom and diversity issues are rising challenges across the Western Hemisphere. Check out my United States Institute of Peace article about how the Organización de los Estados Americanos (OAS) and the Inter-American System have a vital role to play, but one yet to be fully realized. Promoting Peace and Stability in the Americas through Religious Freedom https://lnkd.in/enA9U6b8

United States Institute for Peace (USIP) is working to advance Strategic Religious Engagement. Religious actors have great influence within their cultures, societies, and governments, and as such, are often key players in advocating for peace. https://lnkd.in/eu3vKAd6

my review of Knox Thames recent very good book giving an overview of the politics of international religious freedom. https://lnkd.in/e4THiDNi

The Violent Incidents Database (VID) tracks types of perpetrators, religion of victims and both non-physical and physical violence, from forcible marriage to killings. Run by the International Institute for Religious Freedom (IIRF) and funded by Global Christian Relief (GCR), it is the first worldwide database of incidents of anti-religion violence, said IIRF International Director Dennis Petri. “It’s not expert-opinion based, it’s just recording incidents as they appear in public sources in the media, and that’s really the added value of the instrument, because it fills a gap,” Petri told Christian Daily International. “And of course, it’s useful for research but also for ministries that work in that space to inform their strategic planning, and also for advocacy and awareness raising, because it really gives you a sense of the scope and the magnitude of different phenomena.” https://lnkd.in/eS8XPN2Q

House Church Movement in Afghanistan: Historical Roots and Community Impact The house church movement in Afghanistan has quietly but significantly reshaped the religious landscape of the country. With the historical context of religious persecution and political instability, these underground gatherings have provided a safe haven for believers to worship, study their faith, and minister to others. Despite facing immense challenges, including the constant threat of discovery and persecution, underground church leaders and disciples in these small congregations have continued to grow, offering spiritual support and community to those seeking an alternative to traditional religious institutions. This blog post delves into the origins, growth, and impact of the house church movement in Afghanistan, shedding light on its resilience and profound influence amidst adversity among religious minorities.Key TakeawaysSupport and Encourage: Consider supporting and encouraging the house church movement in Afghanistan through prayer, advocacy, and spreading awareness about their challenges and successes.Embrace Community: Recognize the power of community, religious groups, and the impact of house churches in providing a sense of belonging and support for Afghan believers and re... #Uncategorized

Seeking Peace: Christians in the Holy Land Urge Change in #Israel's #Violence #Behavior In the midst of escalating Israeli-Palestinian violence, Church officials and Christian leaders in Israel are expressing concern, attributing the attacks to a minority of Jewish extremists. They argue that Israel's far-right government has cultivated a culture of #impunity, allowing such incidents to occur unchecked. #Church leaders hold that Israel's government policies pose a growing threat to religious #diversity, pointing to proposed legislation in January seeking jail time for Christian proselytizing. Despite global outcry leading to Prime Minister Benjamin #Netanyahu #blocking the bill, concerns persist about the protection of religious #freedom and the safety of minority communities. https://lnkd.in/gAX4fZai #tolerance #religiousfreedom #bullying #psychologicalsafety #psychologicalhealth #freedomofexpression #change #extremism #stopethniccleansing #wordshavepower #justiceimpacted Religious Freedom Institute #christiancounseling #christ #faithcommunity #impunity #churchleadership #diversityequityinclusion Max Planck Institute for the Study of Religious and Ethnic Diversity

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Faith Under Fire: Africa's Christian Resilience Explore the challenges faced by Christian communities across Africa and the beacon of hope emerging from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Learn how political leadership can foster religious tolerance and protect faith communities. An eye-opening look at persecution, resilience, and progress.