Mandy Beal

Interfaith Work

In an increasingly pluralistic society, it is crucial that Americans understand each other's beliefs, values, and cultures.  Unitarian Universalists are uniquely positioned to lead the way in interfaith work.  We already accept that there can be multiple truths, and we support each other in our individual search for truth and meaning.  I'm very excited about working with other religious professionals and religious organizations to build greater understanding in our communities.

When I was at Andover Newton, I took classes that were cross-enrolled with Hebrew College and the Center for Inter-Religious and Communal Leadership Education (CIRCLE). This gave me a chance to move beyond a casual relationship with Judaism. I became Chavruta (Hebrew scripture text study partner) with a Rabbi-in-Training, who is now a Rabbi and remains a close friend. We met regularly while we were in school to discuss the scriptures and how they could be interpreted for a sermon. We had very different ways of interpreting and using scripture, and we both learned something every time we met. We also worked together in the spring of 2017 on an multigenerational interfaith Passover Seder meal. The Seder meal was very well attended, and included songs, storytelling, intergenerational sharing, and lots of food. 

My work with CIRCLE also included studies in Islam. We live in a time of great interreligious turmoil that is focused on Islam and Muslims. I think that many Americans do not have access to accurate information about Islam and opportunities to build relationships across lines of difference. As a religious tradition that embraces religious diversity, Unitarian Universalists are uniquely positioned to address these issues. Our congregations can host community forums that provide accurate information about Islam and help neighbors get to know each other. During my internship, I served on a town-wide diversity council. We addressed anti-Muslim sentiment in the community and I learned a lot about the importance of bringing people together for the good of the community. Interfaith work is deeply important to me and I think it is important to the future of Unitarian Universalism.