Every year the first week of February is commemorated as World Interfaith Harmony Week. To celebrate this unifying initiative, the Montreal Baha’i Shrine hosted an “Interfaith Harmony Breakfast” on February 14th. The event brought together representatives from different faith communities and civil society organizations to share their experience contributing to interfaith dialogue and to learn about the many interfaith initiatives taking place across the city. Among those present were representatives of the Montreal Jewish-Christian Dialogue, the Center for Civic Religious Literacy, the McGill Office of Faith and Spiritual Life, and the Multi-faith and Spirituality Centre at Concordia University.
Guests were invited to share their personal stories of engagement in interfaith and their reflections on the significance of this work. A major theme of discussion was the practical role of interfaith work in addressing conflict and promoting cooperation across diverse communities. “It is nice to see religion as a unifying force, when most of the time it is not perceived that way in the world,” said one representative engaged in interfaith activities on university campuses. “In my work, we are learning about creating spaces that are accessible to everyone, so that both people of faith and no faith can explore the questions of spirituality. We are also thinking of the language we use to make our spaces more welcoming, where people can connect with the divine,” he continued.
Another theme of discussion was the need for spaces dedicated to prayer and meditation within the rapid pace of city life. “People feel something special when they are in a sacred space. These spaces can be a refuge, and it is important for students to know that a place like the Baha’i Shrine is close by and open to them,” said Rev. Ellie Hummel, the Multi-Faith Chaplain and Spiritual Care Coordinator at Mount Allison University.
The Montreal Bahá'í Shrine, recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada, holds a distinctive connection to interfaith dialogue. Its designation as a Shrine is due to its association to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, a central figure of the Bahá'í Faith who visited Montreal during the Canadian Baha’i community’s early development in 1912.
“The Shrine has been a gathering place for people of all faiths and backgrounds since the early 1900s when it was known as the Maxwell family residence” said Andrea Salguero, Director of Public Affairs for the Baha’i Community of Canada. “Since its designation as a Shrine, it continues to be a sacred space that is open to all who wish to visit it. Hosting interfaith initiatives at this site is a natural continuation of this legacy.”
The Montreal Bahá’í Shrine is open to all as a site for quiet contemplation and prayer. Information about visiting the Shrine is available here.