Activity 4: Story - A Chorus of Faith
Part of A Chorus of Faiths
Activity time: 15 minutes
Materials for Activity
- A copy of the story "A Chorus of Faith"
- Newsprint, markers, and tape
- Optional: Sticks of Juicy Fruit(R) gum or boxes of Cracker Jack(R) caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts, enough for all participants
Preparation for Activity
- Read the story and prepare to present it effectively.
- Look at Alternate Activity 2, Slogans and Symbols, which has discussion questions you may prefer to use.
- Optional: If you will provide a snack, avoid foods any participants cannot have due to allergies or restrictions. Note: Cracker Jack(R) boxes include peanuts.
- Optional: Copy the story for all participants.
Description of Activity
Youth hear a story about Unitarians and Universalists leading an early interfaith event.
Tell or read the story to the group. Or, distribute copies and invite volunteers to share in reading aloud, taking turns at each sentence or paragraph. (Remember, anyone has the right to pass.)
Then, lead a short discussion with these questions:
- What story about religion can be found in the Jenkin Lloyd Jones story you just heard?
- Are any of the three hallmarks of religious pluralism present in the story of the World Parliament of Religions? (respect for religious identity, mutually inspiring relationships, and common action for the common good)
- How does this story reflect Unitarian Universalist values?
- Why do you suppose "All Souls" has been a popular name for both Universalist and Unitarian congregations?
- Does Jenkin Lloyd Jones' vision of a unity among all religions mirror a vision common among Unitarian Universalists today?
- How might novelty and curiosity play a part in interfaith encounters today?