MORRISTOWN, NJ — On November 17, the Diversity Coalition of Morris County sponsored a remarkable interfaith event hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The theme of the event, “Finding Peace Personally and in the Community,” aimed to foster harmony and understanding among different faiths, bringing together diverse religious communities in a spirit of unity and mutual respect.
Speakers and Highlights:
- Dr. Ali Chaudry of the Islamic Society of Basking Ridge spoke about peace and the importance of standing with each other and defending one another regardless of who we are. He emphasized that no one should ever feel left out.
- Rabbi Robert Green of the Congregation B’Nai Israel discussed the concept of living in harmony to achieve an Eden. He explained that we are all God’s agents, necessary for Him to accomplish His works, and that by looking into each other’s faces, we can see the image of God.
- Falguni Pandy representing the Hindu Community of GMW spoke of the mantra “Om, Shanti, Shanti, Shanti,” which means “Peace in ourselves, in the world, and in the cosmos.” She stressed the need to be rooted in our moral duty and shared the Hindu parable of the orphaned prince.
- Keynote Speaker Bart Oates from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints drew from his experience as a professional football player with the New York Giants under Coach Bill Parcells. He emphasized the importance of chemistry within a team and how each individual plays a crucial role in the community. By coming together in our strengths and relying on one another in our weaknesses, unity and greater success can be achieved. He also encouraged attendees to “look up” and see the beauty all around us.
In addition to the thought-provoking speeches, attendees were treated to a special musical number by Shana Onigman from the Morristown Jewish Center and a performance by an Interfaith Choir. The choir was directed by Scott Stornetta of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and accompanied by Kevin Graf of the Presbyterian Church of Morristown, captivating the audience with its harmonious blend of voices.
At the conclusion of the event, President William Ludlam of the Morristown Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints presented the 2024 Light the World Award to Dr. Beverly Tignor from the Diversity Coalition of Morris County for her outstanding service and dedication to the community. She graciously accepted the award and acknowledged the many people behind the scenes including Franz Owens who serves as co-chair of the coalition. Previous recipients of the award, Sheriff James M. Gannon (2022 recipient) and Senator Tony M. Bucco (2023 recipient), were also present to honor Dr. Tignor.
The event included an offering to benefit the Head Start Community Program of Morris County, demonstrating the attendees’ commitment to supporting local initiatives.
This interfaith event was a testament to the power of community and collaboration, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for a future where diverse beliefs coexist in peace and mutual support.
To find opportunities to be involved in the next interfaith event or other events sponsored by the Diversity Coalition of Morris County visit Diversity Coalition of Morris County. To learn more about the Light the World initiative visit Light the World.
