CIC hosts event honoring diverse religious backgrounds: ABC News 4
by Rachel Ellis
Wednesday, January 1st 2020
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — There was a history lesson on Monday in Charleston’s faith-based communities. People gathered that night to celebrate religion in the Holy City as the next decade arrives.
The Charleston Interreligious Council (CIC) hosted a “Gathering of Faiths” at Seacoast Church in West Ashley to bring people together under one roof. Organizers said it’s a historical evening in the Holy City.“
We live in a society where our neighbors come from different places and different backgrounds and have a different understanding of the world,” said President of CIC Dena Moses.Moses said over twenty religious groups were invited to attend and honor Interfaith Harmony Month. For the first time, Mayor Tecklenburg proclaimed January Interfaith Harmony Month in Charleston. People attending said this event was all about bringing people together.“
A lot of people have been asking about Judaism and what it is, and asking about the recent violence that’s been happening. And I explained the fact that were all in this room and learning about these faith traditions means that were leaving with a sense of community,” said Robin Shuler.
For some, it’s important that people are embracing religions that are unknown to them.“Charleston is a place and space where we have people moving here daily from different religious traditions as well, and I think we need to be a community of understanding and love,” said Moses.
Cornbread and okra soup was prepared by Gullah chef Charlotte Jenkins and people attending were able to try some for free, while stopping by various booths around the church. The event was free and open to the public.