The FoRB Foundation was honored to partner with Archbishop Angaelos of REFCEMI in hosting a second Faith Leaders Roundtable, bringing together religious leaders from diverse faith traditions to discuss the advancement of freedom of religion or belief and the importance of fostering mutual understanding across faith communities.
A central theme of the discussion was the responsibility of raising the next generation to value not only the freedom to practice their own faith, but also the freedom of others to do the same. Participants emphasized the need to create meaningful opportunities for young people from different religious backgrounds to build relationships and learn from one another.
Many of the leaders connected with the sentiment that the first passion in their lives is their faith, while their shared second passion is the promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief and the common values, aims, and objectives that unite people of different faiths. The leaders feel called to first and foremost cultivate a passion for their own religion within the rising generations, while still teaching the importance of all faiths working together to find common ground as a crucial, but secondary passion.
Several faith leaders observed that, in an increasingly polarized world, intentional efforts to promote friendship and understanding are more important than ever. One participant highlighted the value of creating spaces where people of different faiths can connect through shared community activities, even when those activities are not explicitly faith-based. They noted that as trust and friendship grow, individuals naturally become stronger advocates for one another and for the protection of each other’s fundamental freedoms.
Another faith leader encouraged religious communities to move away from viewing one another as competitors. Participants stressed that individuals can remain firmly rooted in their own beliefs and traditions while still working collaboratively with others to find common ground. The ability to engage in respectful dialogue, even amid disagreement, was agreed to be an essential component of strengthening both interfaith relationships and broader social cohesion.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of visible community service. One leader noted that when people of faith come together to serve their communities, they demonstrate the positive impact that faith can have on society. Such efforts not only benefit those being served but also help foster a greater appreciation for the role faith communities play in promoting compassion and unity.
The roundtable served as a valuable opportunity for faith leaders to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing freedom of religion or belief through cooperation, understanding, and service.
Participants also discussed opportunities for future collaboration to advance freedom of religion or belief through service projects, educational seminars, panel discussions, and other community initiatives. The FoRB Foundation is encouraged by the enthusiasm and shared commitment demonstrated during the roundtable and looks forward to supporting efforts that foster greater understanding, cooperation, and advocacy across faith communities.
Those in attendance included:
• Matthew Jones, Trustee of the FoRB Foundation
• Archbishop Angaelos, REFCEMI, Coptic Orthodox Church
• Rabbi Elchonon Feldman, Senior Rabbi of Bushey United Synagogue, Orthodox Judaism
• Elder Quentin L. Cook, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Elder Clark G. Gilbert, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Elder Kevin W. Pearson, General Authority Seventy, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Ryan Brewer, Student Outreach Pastor, Vineyard Church Movement
• Reverend Andrew Teal, Anglican Church
• Desmond Biddulph, President of London Buddhist Society