Elizabeth Rahman reflects on the 2007 festival

Written by Elizabeth Rahman

I had mixed feelings as our 4th Abraham Festival drew to a close recently— feelings of relief, joy and sadness.             I felt relief because after all our planning (and despite some last-minute glitches!) the concert of the arts, the films, and worship all went off well. Special thanks go to Father Paul for his unwavering support. Rev. Karen, Helen, Nora, Heather & Joyce for all their hard work to make the festival such a success. The joy came from meeting so many people throughout the week — renewing acquaintances in the Christian & Jewish communities and seeing many new faces. This is what the festival is all about - coming together as people of faith with respect and openness and a willingness to learn about one another. It was a special pleasure to have young people taking part in the concert of the arts. It was also a real joy to attend worship at Beth Israel Synagogue & George St. United Church, and to see so many people from the Christian & Jewish communities at the mosque. The Muslim community felt privileged to welcome you and get to know you, and we extend an invitation to visit us any time.             The sadness I felt came from the fact that an exciting week was over! I pray that we can build on the information learned and the acquaintances made to foster understanding & acceptance among our three faiths, while still remaining true to our own beliefs. The poem by a Jewish poet which I read at the concert reminds us of the philosophy of the Abraham Festival:     "Our ability to live in peace with each other depends first and foremost on our ability to accept all that is different between us. I want to get closer to you, but let me be who I am. I welcome You coming closer to me, while respecting who you are. On our own individual paths we are all looking for the bread, the water, the wind and a dignified life. And yes, we all cling to love" shalom, salaam, peace,                 Elizabeth Rahman