Filling a Gap: Interfaith Dialogue

At the Blue Ridge Center, we are thankful to have the ability to host students of many faiths in constructive conversations. Our reading groups are home to students of many different backgrounds and experiences. One of our group leaders opened up about the power of having interreligious dialogue– even on issues as difficult and tragic as anti-Semitism. Here’s an interview with Orr Grosman on the ways interreligious dialogue shaped his group’s conversations.

Q. What was the breakdown of your group in terms of religious diversity?

A. Our book club included participants from a range of religious and cultural backgrounds. I am proud of how we were able to listen and learn from each other. Our upbringings largely shape how we perceive life around us, and our group's diversity enriched the discussions by bringing multiple lenses to sensitive and historically complex topics.

Q. What has been surprising or different about this conversation within this group compared to a single-faith group?

A. A key difference in an interfaith setting is the range of lived experiences and historical understandings participants bring. In our group, we deconstructed who are Jews and what it means to be Jewish before we discussed anti-Jewish sentiments. It helped establish a foundation of understanding that made sense to all. From there, we approached it through theological, historical, and sociopolitical lenses. What made it unique was how each participant was able to share their knowledge and maintain a respectful dialogue that allowed us to venture into nuanced and complex territories.

Q.  Do you believe there are limits to interreligious dialogue?

A. Even in respectful spaces, interreligious dialogue can encounter tensions around deeply held beliefs or differing historical interpretations. For example, sensitive topics like religious culpability, identity politics, or historical grievances can be emotionally charged. In our group, we focused on Understanding, acknowledging, and developing empathy to deal with these limits. This educational approach creates an authentic dialogue that allows us to move forward even if we disagree with each other. 

Q. After leading this group, what do you think are its strengths? 

A. Interreligious dialogue, taking into account the process above, fosters empathy, mutual understanding, and the ability to see antisemitism from multiple points of view. It can dismantle stereotypes and build solidarity across communities. We ventured to places where we discussed how antisemitism not only affects Jews but how its roots and consequences intersect with broader societal systems. These conversations led to deeper self-reflection, allyship, and a more nuanced grasp of religious diversity and shared humanity. 

Group leader Orr Grosman is the Director of Israel Engagement & Global Jewish Experience at the Brody Jewish Center. He is a former emissary that specializes in community building, educational program development, mentoring, and empowering young adults.