The Institute of Interfaith Dialog
The Institute of Interfaith Dialog (IID) grew out of the need to address the question, "How can citizens of the world live in peace and harmony?" The Institute was established in 2002 as a 501-c-3 non-profit educational organization by Turkish-Americans and their friends. The Institute aims to eliminate or reduce false stereotypes, prejudices and unjustified fears through direct human communication.
Toward these goals the Institute organizes academic and grass roots activities such as conferences , panels, symposia, interfaith family dinners and cultural exchange trips . Many participants of the Institutes activities are inspired by the discourse and pioneering dialogue initiatives of the Turkish Muslim scholar, writer and educator Fethullah Gulen . Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the Institute has branch offices in five states and representatives throughout the South-Central United States.
Mission of The Institute of Interfaith Dialog
The Institute of Interfaith Dialog is a non-profit organization whose primary goal is to help bring together the communities in order to promote compassion, cooperation, partnership and community service through interfaith dialog and conversation. The IID is dedicated to encouraging the study of the global communities' spiritual traditions from the vantage point of respect, accuracy, and appreciation.
Vision of The Institute of Interfaith Dialog
In its efforts to promote fully expressed dialog within the global community and to maintain its objectivity, the IID does not accept favors nor does it promote any political or government agency be it foreign or domestic. The IID has made a commitment to maintain its stance for compassion and respect with regard to free expression of spirituality throughout communities.
Aims of The Institute of Interfaith Dialog
The IID has taken a stand that peace on the planet can be achieved within the foreseeable future. The vision of the Institute of Interfaith Dialog is to help unite communities in order that the spirituality of all individuals be heard in a space that is free of dogmatism, criticism, oppression, and fear.
Education and The Institute of Interfaith Dialog
An intrinsic aspect of the IID is to promote the study of world religions and spiritual faiths in order to gain wisdom and knowledge so that people will have a renewed sense of gratitude, and respect for the spiritual beliefs they hold closest to their hearts. By being in constant communication with other people who have different traditions from their own, we each have the opportunity to refine and appreciate our own beliefs and traditions.
Advisory Board
Dr. Alp Aslandogan
Br. Robert Lentz
Dr. Jim Bankston
Dr. Andy Achenbaum
Dr. David Capes
Dr. Jill Carroll
Dr. Helen R. Ebaugh
Dr. Guinn B. Eagleson
Sr. Rabbi Roy A.Walter
The IID General
www.interfaithdialog.org
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