Valley Interfaith Council Hosts Community Film Screening

Nearly 100 members of the Valley and surrounding communities attended a free film screening of the National Geographic documentary "Jerusalem" at Center Stage Theatre on the evening of October 10th presented by the Valley Interfaith Council. Following the film, attendees learned about faith and tolerance during a panel discussion featuring several religious leaders and facilitated by Kenn Harris of New Haven Healthy Start.

Valley Interfaith Council Vice-Chair and event coordinator, Deacon Tom Mariconda, said, "Jerusalem is considered one of the holiest places on Earth. I believe that viewing this documentary about the city helped us better understand that despite our different religious traditions and beliefs, we are all one family."

Panelists included, Imam Omer Bajwa, Director of Muslim Life in the Chaplain's Office at Yale, Rabbi Michael Farbman, Temple Emanuel in Orange, and Rev. Dr. Lisa Hahneman, Episcopal Priest serving the Diocese of Connecticut. Each have personally visited Jerusalem and shared their experiences about the Holy City with the audience.

Jerusalem is home of the world's three largest religions: Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. This is the Council's first public event to bring further understanding and clarity about interfaith similarities and differences. It is the hope of the VIFC that this immersive and inclusive experience will help to provide more knowledge about tolerance and understanding.

Funding support for this event was made possibly from the South Central Connecticut Agency on Aging, the Valley Community Foundation, with accommodations provided by Center State Theatre.