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Holy Cross's Interfaith Prayer Gathering: A Compact Overview of Its Past

Annually, the College of the Holy Cross holds a solemn gathering of readings, melodies, and communal festivities to honor its diverse religious backgrounds. This tradition, initiated in 2012, has laid the foundation for a sacred display of scriptures and impactful ceremonies, which remains...

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A Historical Overview of the MultiFaith Community Prayer Held at Holy Cross
A Historical Overview of the MultiFaith Community Prayer Held at Holy Cross

Holy Cross's Interfaith Prayer Gathering: A Compact Overview of Its Past

11th Annual MultiFaith Community Prayer Set to Unite Holy Cross Community

Prepare for a spirit-filled gathering as the College of the Holy Cross hosts the 11th Annual MultiFaith Community Prayer on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, in Mary Chapel. This event, which has been a significant part of the College's calendar since 2012, brings together students, staff, and members of the wider community in a celebration of diverse faith traditions.

The prayer service will commence at 4 p.m., and it promises to be a joyous occasion filled with readings, music, and warm celebration. As in previous years, attendees are encouraged to actively participate, with opportunities to light candles, lead music, act as ministers of hospitality, and even join a drum circle.

The theme for this year's prayer service is "Journeying Together toward a Hope-filled Future," a sentiment echoed by Pope Francis during an interreligious gathering in Jakarta, Indonesia, in September 2024. This theme underscores the importance of unity and shared purpose in navigating the challenges ahead.

In keeping with the College's commitment to interreligious dialogue, faith leaders from various traditions, including Christianity (including Catholicism), Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, will share readings from their scriptures and spiritual writings during the service.

Following the prayer service, a Reception of Food from around the World will take place, featuring specialties from India, Central America, Southeast Asia, and Greece. This culinary journey is a testament to the College's rich cultural diversity and its commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

The College of the Holy Cross, a Jesuit institution, has a long-standing tradition of honoring its many faith traditions. This was evident in the 20th Anniversary 9/11 Interfaith Remembrance Service, sponsored by the Office of the College Chaplains, and in the grand celebration of the 100th anniversary of St. Joseph Memorial Chapel on the 21st of April.

Neighbors in faith from the larger Worcester community, including the Boundless Way Zen Temple, Islamic Society Of Greater Worcester, Worcester Hindu Community, and Congregation Beth Israel, have been regular participants in these events, demonstrating the College's strong connections with the local faith community.

For those who wish to learn more about the 11th Annual MultiFaith Community Prayer event, including the religious leaders and traditions involved, we recommend checking the College of the Holy Cross official website or contacting their Office of Campus Ministry directly. They are the ones who typically organize and announce these events.

Join us on January 21, 2025, as we come together in unity, respect, and shared purpose, celebrating our diverse faith traditions and embarking on a journey towards a hope-filled future.

  1. The 11th Annual MultiFaith Community Prayer, which is a significant event in the College of the Holy Cross calendar, brings together students, staff, and members of the wider community, offering opportunities for active participation such as lighting candles, leading music, and acting as ministers of hospitality.
  2. The theme for this year's prayer service, "Journeying Together toward a Hope-filled Future," emphasizes unity and shared purpose, mirroring Pope Francis' sentiments during an interreligious gathering.
  3. Faith leaders from various traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, will share readings from their scriptures and spiritual writings, reflecting the College's commitment to interreligious dialogue.
  4. Following the prayer service, a Reception of Food from around the World will take place, showcasing the College's rich cultural diversity and its commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
  5. The College of the Holy Cross, known for its long-standing tradition of honoring various faith traditions, often partners with neighbors in faith from the larger Worcester community for events such as the 11th Annual MultiFaith Community Prayer.

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