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  We are thrilled to announce the appointment of five new  Board Members .  Imam Quaiser Abdullah, Ph.D. , expressed our honor in welcoming these distinguished individuals. "Their invaluable skills and diverse perspectives will undoubtedly contribute significantly to our efforts in charting a strategic direction and propelling us forward," he said. " These individuals will make a significant contribution to our organization with their expertise from across the public, private and nonprofit sectors," said Abby Stamelman Hocky , Executive Director of Interfaith Philadelphia. The new members of Interfaith Philadelphia’s Board of Directors are:    Ed Beckett - Ed Beckett promotes understanding through his work in the education sector. Beckett uses his vast experience to serve the Gesu School, an independent Pre-K through 8th Catholic school in North Philadelphia. He aids the Gesu School’s President and Board through his role as Vice President for Mission, Identity, an

Interfaith leadership goes beyond mere religious tolerance. It involves understanding and respecting various religious and spiritual traditions while fostering dialogue and collaboration among them. Whether you work in education, healthcare, social services, or in a general corporate setting, it is important to have the tools to navigate religious diversity.   Foundations of Interfaith Leadership LIVE is a multi-week certificate program (offered in partnership with Interfaith Philadelphia and Interfaith America) that equips professionals from across the country with innovative tools to navigate religious diversity.  Blending independent work with required live Zoom sessions, the program hosted a cohort last spring that included students from diverse backgrounds including Buddhist, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Pagan, and Quaker participants.  Read more to learn how past participants have benefited from the program: An administrator who works in diversity and inclusion at The University o

Betul Maden-Yilmaz, Theological Intern, leads students in the Mosaic Program at The Praise Center in South Philadelphia By Betul Maden-Yilmaz, Theological Intern In a world that grows increasingly diverse by the day, fostering understanding and appreciation for different backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities is essential for creating a harmonious and peaceful society. Interfaith Philadelphia’s Mosaic Summer Program has been a shining example of how young minds can be enlightened and inspired to embrace interfaith values. As an Interfaith Philadelphia Theological Intern, and one of the co-facilitators in three of these enriching programs, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power it holds for students in 6th to 8th grade. Through engaging activities, interactive sessions, and captivating presentations, the students have embarked on a journey of discovery, unity, and personal growth. This June and July, we offered Mosaic in South Philly at The Aquinas Center and The Phila

  The Ukrainian Support Program is one of dozens of programs sponsored by NSC and its partners. Zones of Peace  recently welcomed  Nationalities Service Center  (NSC) as a new partner organization.  Each year, thousands of refugees and immigrants come to Philadelphia. For over a century, NSC has provided comprehensive services and supports for immigrants and refugees to thrive in our communities and pursue a just future. Immigrants and refugees are vulnerable to systemic and personal violence. NSC responds with caring practical solutions to guide them through the transition to new lives. 44% of those coming to Philadelphia as refugees are victims of torture. NSC responds to the violence of torture with compassion and resources for healing. NSC offers legal protections and remedies, health and wellness, education,  employment services, and language access. With a staff of  over 120, they serve over 5,000 immigrants and refugees per year, working with many partner organizations. Despite