Chico State University is set to launch a new interfaith lecture series on November 7, 2023, designed to promote understanding and dialogue among various religious communities. The event, which is free and open to the public, aims to explore the diverse cultures and faiths present in Northern California, addressing their unique challenges and successes.
The series, titled “Interreligious Reflections in Northern California,” will commence with a session focusing on “Jewish and Hindu reflections.” Leading the discussions will be Rajan Zed, a prominent Hindu statesman, and Lisa Rappaport, a local leader within the Jewish community. They will be joined by Daniel Veidlinger, chair of the Comparative Religion and Humanities Department and an expert in Hinduism, along with professor Jed Wyrick, who specializes in Judaism.
Veidlinger emphasized that the series will not delve deeply into the historical contexts of these religions, but instead focus on their relevance to contemporary life in Northern California, a region noted for its religious tolerance. Zed, although based in Reno, has a significant presence in the Northern California Hindu community. Rappaport serves as a rabbi at the local Congregation Beth Israel in Chico.
The decision to spotlight Judaism and Hinduism for the inaugural event was intentional. “We’re trying to pair religions that have some common factor,” Veidlinger explained. “Judaism and Hinduism are the two oldest continual religions in the world, each with approximately 3,000 years of history.” This shared heritage provides a rich foundation for dialogue.
This upcoming lecture will be the only interfaith event scheduled for the current fall semester. Looking ahead, the department plans to host at least one interfaith event each semester, with the next session set to focus on Sikhism and Islam. Veidlinger noted that these two faiths are often confused due to their similar cultural practices, such as the wearing of turbans.
The initiative for the series came from Matthew and Isabel Fine, a Jewish couple residing in Oroville. Initially, they approached the department with the desire to fund lectures on Judaism. After discussions, they agreed to broaden the scope to encompass all religions within the region.
The lecture will take place at Chico State in the Arts and Humanities Building, room 112. Doors will open at 18:30, offering light snacks and refreshments, with the lecture commencing at 19:00 and concluding at 20:30. For those unable to attend in person, the event will also be accessible via Zoom at tinyurl.com/y95jkfcc.
Veidlinger encourages all community members to attend, particularly those interested in learning more about the religious beliefs of their neighbors. This series represents a significant step towards fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding in the community.