It seems appropriate to be initiating this blog on what feels like the first day of spring here in Austin. In our work at iACT we find ourselves constantly renewed by perspective-changing encounters between people and communities of different faiths.  In these times of great religious strife and tension our work to “cultivate interfaith peace and respect” is essential, but it is also life-changing because we often find ourselves challenged to deepen our own spiritual commitments when we bear witness to the practices and commitments of others. We use the phrase, “Act Locally, Grow Personally” to describe the experience of participating in the iACT community and we invite you to join us in this transformative work.

In the coming days and weeks, it is our hope that this blog and website will become a lively nexus or  forum where “conversations that matter” take place. This will be our virtual Red Bench, a place where religious pluralism is welcomed and genuine  interfaith relationships take root. We will be posting articles, sharing links, and, we hope, deepening your experience of the inspiring spiritual diversity of our community and nation. So, thank you for taking the first step of this journey with us.

Shalom. Salaam. Peace.

Tom