The U.S. is arguably the most diverse nation on earth. Our founding fathers dreamt of a land welcoming diverse cultures, lifestyles and varying world views. Today, people from various ethnic groups representing the seven continents bring their rich, unique traditions to this grand experiment we call America. Although our country is still very young and imperfect, we are blessed with wonderful freedoms.
One freedom making America so special is the free exercise of religion. Few other areas of our lives evoke such emotion and passion -- it matters!
Recently, I read an article by Dr. Diana Eck, distinguished professor of Comparative Religions at Harvard University. She writes, "Today, religious diversity is a given, but pluralism is not a given; it is an achievement. Mere diversity without real encounter and relationship will yield increasing tensions in our societies. The dynamic of pluralism is one of meeting, exchange and two-way traffic."
Eck recommends we all take the next step in this journey by actively seeking understanding across lines of differences by engaging and learning from one another. She further suggests, "Pluralism is not simply relativism, but makes room for real and different religious commitments."
Air Force Instruction 1-1, "Air Force Culture," section 2.12, paragraph 2.12.1. says, "All Airmen are able to choose to practice their particular religion, or subscribe to no religious belief at all. You should confidently practice your own beliefs while respecting others whose viewpoints differ from your own."
This critical next step of engagement requires all of us to exercise respect for one another and develop a sincere desire to learn more about our teammates. Every time you and I have healthy conversations about religion and spirituality, it's a mini-celebration of our freedoms we hold so dear.
Annually, the 10th Air Base Wing Chaplain Corps here hosts the National Prayer Luncheon. This is an opportunity for all of us to come together as a community and boldly celebrate our religious diversity and constitutional right to freedom of religion.
This year's event will be held 11:30 a.m., Feb. 13 at the Falcon Club. Those who attend will enjoy a tasty buffet lunch of both roasted turkey breast and vegetarian pasta primavera, listen to readings from a variety of sacred texts, and hear prayers for our country and our leaders.
Retired Gen. Kevin Chilton will present the keynote address, "Spirituality from an Astronaut's Perspective."
This is not a worship service; rather it's an opportunity to rejoice in our shared American religious liberty. I hope to see you there.
The Prayer Luncheon is $7 per person, $5 for senior airmen and below, and their civilian equivalents.
Credit card or cash is accepted. Cash payments should be made at the Community Center Chapel, 5134 Cathedral Drive.
To sign-up, call 333-3300 or visit bit.ly/1kXZJdK by Feb. 10.