3 August 2006
The bombs, rockets and bullets used by conflicting forces have no religious identity yet destroy all faiths, the Bangladeshi State Minister for Religion, the Honourable Mr Mosharef Hossain Shahjahan, will tell an Interfaith Seminar hosted by Monash University on Tuesday 22 August.
Mr Mosharef will be joined by Rabbi David Rosen as keynote speakers at this international interfaith seminar based around tolerance and world peace and the role of faith, the church, state, education and other institutions.
Rabbi Rosen is the President of the International Jewish Committee that represents world Jewry in its relations with other religions, and is a papal Knight Commander of the Order of St Gregory the Great for his outstanding contributions in promoting Catholic-Jewish reconciliation.
Mr Mosharef, who is also President of the Bangladesh chapter of the Asian Conference of Religions for Peace, said although no religion taught violence or encouraged hatred toward others, it was difficult to think of any kind of crime that had not been committed in the name of religion.
"In this predicament, a lasting and peaceful society is impossible unless the clashing faiths are reconciled," he said.
"This could be, and should be, done through knowledge, dialogue and demonstration of the fact that love, compassion and selflessness and the inner force of truthfulness ultimately have greater power than hatred, enmity and self-interest."
An opening address will be given by Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Larkins and speakers from a range of faiths will participate in sessions throughout the day.
What: 'Tolerance and world peace' - Interfaith Seminar
When: Tuesday 22 August, 9.30 am -- 5 pm
Where: Bayview Conference Centre, Bayview Rd, Clayton
Cost: $20, including morning tea, light lunch and afternoon tea
RSVP: Contact 9905 1344 or email irene.thavarajah@adm.monash.edu .au
For further information contact Seminar Co-Facilitator Mr Jeff McLean on 9903 2608 or Ms Natasha Whalley, Media Communications on +61 3 9905 9201 or 0437 458 457.
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