A new cultural wind is blowing across the planet. Diverse faith communities, religious leaders and individuals have begun to commit themselves to mutual understanding and cooperation on issues of vital human concern.

The recent World Parliament of Religions in Salt Lake City (October 2015) drew over 10,000 participants from around the world who set aside theological differences to consider common actions on poverty, childhood hunger, disease, peace, justice and the environmental crisis. Recently, Pope Francis and the Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church met to focus on ending a rift that occurred in the 12th Century that had far more to do with the politics of the late Roman Empire than with everyday practice of Christians. The split has endured, however, and only now comes to be questioned as Christians in both the East and West find themselves facing issues of poverty, persecution and war.

This coming together of two important church leaders to discuss issues facing them both is in keeping with a growing interfaith dialogue that is occurring around the globe. Much of that dialogue is happening on the local and regional level, however, as people of faith often find themselves moving ahead of denominational and institutional leadership. Literally thousands of interfaith groups have formed in communities large and small. Interfaith organizations are beginning to replace the old ecumenical councils and organizations. Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jews, Muslims and others now sit down together to address their common concerns and visions.

However, they have to learn about each other in order to do that. Faith communities are moving beyond mere tolerance to deep listening, learning and appreciation of one another. These are exciting times to be living and working in religion.