History
The history of multi-faith
co-operation is long in Victoria, B.C. Notable were the creation of the
Interfaith Chaplaincy and the Centre for Study of Religion and
Society at the University of Victoria.
Since 2001,
representatives of several faith communities have met regularly and
organized multi-faith gatherings at the Cadboro Bay United Church,
and street festivals near St. John’s the Divine Anglican and First
Metropolitan United Church. Included in these gatherings were
Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Bahá’í, Buddhist, Unitarian and
several other faith communities. The response was extraordinary and
the need for a formal association was evident.
Rev. Dale Perkins, Minister at Cadboro Bay United Church, was one of
the members of the organizing committee for these first meetings.
After his retirement in 2005, Dale took a leading role in inviting
representatives of the faith communities to consider forming a
Multi-Faith Society. At a meeting held in April, 2006, at the
Interfaith Chapel at UVic, participants voted to enter within the
World Inter-Faith Education Association (BC) and become a project of
this chartered society. A new Board of Directors was elected (see
link) at this meeting, and a series of Objectives were adopted. The
name Victoria Multifaith Society was chosen.
Membership is open to individuals who share in the vision and
objectives of the society. It is hoped that the witness and work of
the society will represent the very best in our respective faith
traditions and lead to greater understanding, respect and
co-operation of everyone living in our region.
Strategic Planning
Here's the VMS "big picture"...
Programs past & present
-
A multifaith
book club studied each major Faith for one 3-month
season, looking for what is beautiful and essential in each
one (2007-2008);
-
Learning Circles,
began September 11, 2007 - studied one Faith per month, with
presenters giving overviews followed by questions and answers;
-
General meetings
to involve exploration of ethical and moral issues combined with
time to share and socialize with other members - ongoing.
Anyone interested in
these activities or who’d like to be on the email notification
list can contact
victoriamultifaith@gmail.com
We also offer
speakers to businesses and organizations who share our vision.
Please email for further information.
Objectives
