Are you disgusted by terrorists using religion to recruit suicide bombers? Are you moved to take a stand against extremists who are misrepresenting your faith? This post tells the story of a retired Presbyterian pastor who heard that spiritual call. You, too, can make friends across faith lines, and use the internet for good. Read on!
How I Became an Online Interfaith Peacemaker
Even before the internet came along I loved communicating online, using “bulletin boards” where I left messages by modem. By today’s standards this was a VERY slow way of communicating, but it still made global conversations possible. I’ve been an avid telecommunicator ever since.
After 9-11, Interfaith Reflections.com Was Born
When did I start using the internet for interfaith peacemaking? After 9-11 I saw that the internet would be used by religious extremists to spread hatred and recruit terrorists. On the other hand, I recognized that the internet would help peacemakers find each other, and create a prophylactic fabric of good will to prevent evil-doers from spreading suspicion and ill will. That’s when I launched Interfaith Reflections.
Twitter has helped me easily find interfaith co-workers on the other side of the planet. Because of the brevity of tweets, the speed of a Twitter stream, and the ease of making new contacts, I find Twitter unbeatable for expanding my mind and increasing my contact list.
Two weeks ago a new Twitter follower direct-messaged me this request: “Would I like to be on Channel A9 TV in Istanbul, Turkey, on a program called “Building Bridges Gateway“? I checked out the URL she sent, and tweeted “Yes!”
The video below records my conversation with channel 9, using Skype. I offer it to show how the internet can be used to meet and collaborate with peacemakers all over the planet.
I invite you to leave a comment. If you’re interested in guest posting at Interfaith Reflections, please follow me at Twitter or Facebook and let me know!
Peace,
TCDavis
Thanks Tom – For sharing and your global reach-out for inter-faith peace !
Thanks, Pat, and thank you for your help with the interfaith agency, Career Insights for Teens (www.careerinsightsforteens.org). Your expertise in marketing has helped CIFT make good progresss!
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That broadcast was uplifting. It still is daunting figuring out what to do with the radicals, but the Quaker message gives us hope.
Yes, God bless the Quakers. They have been such a lifeline to me since my return from warring. I keep reading their testimonies and sitting in silence with them. It’s a balm!
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Thank you, Tom. That was an interesting and educational interview. I have always thought interfaith peacemaking a very worthwhile endeavor. Do you know any likeminded folks around here in Nashville?
Hi, Grace
As a matter of fact, I do know some Nashvillians. Will email you about them.
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Thanks for sharing, Tom. It’s inspiring to see these kinds of connections being made around the world.
Thank you Mr. Davis for sharing the video. It is always a pleasure to listen to you. It has been awhile since we last got together, as your friends at Rumi Forum we hope to see you again soon.
Serkan, thanks so much for leaving a comment! I look forward to more opportunities to meet with the Rumi Forum. I’ve been telling my friends about it, and they’re interested. I’ll plan on making an Interfaith Reflections post about them soon.
Peace,
Tom
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I wish you a day full of Light by grace of Almighty Creator
The Almighty Creator Bless You Always
Thank you Mr. Davis for sharing the video
May Allah bless all of Us and bring Us peace in the world! Insha’Allah
With my deepest love & respect
Maybe You want see my page in facebook dear Sir
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Interviews-on-Building-Bridges-A9-Tv-Studio/316168405168194
With my deepest love & respect