All In Good Faith

This document summarizes "All in Good Faith: A Resource Book for Multi-faith Prayer," edited by Jean Potter and Marcus Braybrooke and published by the World Congress of Faiths in 1997. The book is dedicated to Sir Alan Richmond, a supporter of interfaith cooperation.

The book is structured into three parts, with an additional annotated bibliography.

Part I: Prayer in the World Faiths

• Introduction (Marcus Braybrooke & Jean Potter): This section sets the stage by discussing the increasing frequency of interfaith prayer services and the theoretical and practical questions they raise. It notes the growth of interfaith initiatives, from large public events to local groups, and acknowledges the variety of terminology used (e.g., "All Faiths Services," "Multi-faith Observances"). The editors highlight that while they are Christian, the book aims for a multi-faith character, with contributions from various religious traditions.
• The Development of Interfaith Services and a History of the Discussion About Them (Marcus Braybrooke): This chapter traces the history of interfaith prayer, from the World's Parliament of Religions in Chicago (1893) through early initiatives by groups like the Brahmo Samaj, Mahatma Gandhi, and Unitarians. It details the significant role of the World Congress of Faiths in popularizing "All Faiths" services. The chapter also explores the controversies and debates that have arisen within Christianity regarding interfaith worship, noting the concerns about compromising distinct faiths and the uniqueness of Christ. It discusses various guidelines and reports from Christian organizations addressing these issues. The section extends to international developments, including the Assisi Day of Prayer for World Peace and the discussion on "Communicatio in Sacris" (sharing in sacred rites).
• The Issues (Marcus Braybrooke): This chapter delves into the core theological and philosophical questions surrounding interfaith prayer. It addresses the "universalist" perspective that sees an underlying unity in religions, the concept of "committed members of the Household of Faith," the debate around worshipping "One God" and its implications for non-theistic traditions like Buddhism, and the Christian concern for the "uniqueness of Christ." It also highlights the positive aspect of interfaith services as a witness to human unity and a shared commitment to justice, peace, and environmental care.
• Devotion and Worship in the Baha'i Faith (Hilary Freeman): Explains that Baha'i Faith emphasizes daily obligatory prayers and meditation. It highlights that work in service to humanity is considered a form of worship. Baha'is are encouraged to read from other scriptures and participate in interfaith worship, seeing their faith as a natural fit due to its core teachings of the oneness of God, religion, and humanity.
• Buddhism and Prayer (Ven. Pandith M. Vajiragnana): Clarifies that Buddhism does not accept the concept of a creator God or an eternal soul. Prayer, in the petitionary sense, is not a Buddhist practice. Instead, meditation, aimed at purifying the mind and developing virtues like compassion, is the primary spiritual discipline. Buddhists can participate in interfaith events, respecting diversity, but cannot compromise on their non-theistic doctrines.
• Christianity and Interfaith Worship (Rev. John Pridmore): Argues that Christian worship, being corporate, ethical, our primary response to God, and situational, inherently allows for participation in interfaith worship. The author emphasizes that experience of worship shapes doctrine, and that inclusion or exclusion should be based on encounters with the divine rather than rigid doctrinal pronouncements. The situational aspect highlights how shared experiences of pain and the interconnectedness of the world necessitate interfaith engagement.
• Hindu Worship and Prayer in the context of Inter-Faith Worship (Ranchor Prime): Explains Hindu worship through the principles of sravanam (hearing), kirtanam (chanting), and smaranam (remembering). Hinduism's inherent multiplicity and recognition of diverse paths make Hindus naturally at home in interfaith contexts. The author clarifies that Hindu deity worship is not idol worship but a representation of the divine for devotion.
• The Prayer in Islam (Imam Dr Abduljalil Sajid): Emphasizes the central role of prayer (Salat) in Islam as a pillar of faith, a direct link to God, and a means of purification. Islam emphasizes good relations with all people, peace, cooperation, and human welfare. While Muslims worship only the One God, they can attend collective worship where God is praised, but avoid associating any other being or object with God.
• Jain Prayers (Vinod Kapashi): Describes Jainism as a path to freedom from attachment and aversion. Jains worship the Tirthankaras (enlightened souls) and emphasize non-violence, self-control, and universal love. Jain prayer focuses on devotion and meditation, not on seeking favors from liberated souls who are detached. A famous prayer expresses wishes for the happiness and well-being of all beings.
• A Jewish View of Prayer and Interfaith Services (Rabbi Rachel Montagu): Explains Jewish prayer, centered on the Amidah and the Shema, as a replacement for temple sacrifices. The text highlights the debate on fixed prayer forms and the importance of blessings in Jewish liturgy. While many Jews welcome non-Jews to synagogue services, participation in interfaith services depends on the denomination, with progressive Jews being more open to it.
• Interfaith Co-operation - A Matter of Faith for Sikhs (Ranbir S. Sandhu): Outlines Sikhism's core principles of equality, respect for all faiths, and universal brotherhood. Sikhs believe in One God who pervades all creation and see all faiths as God's creation. Prayer is a constant consciousness of God's nearness, acquired through love and service. Sikhs are committed to religious harmony and have historically protected the rights of people of other faiths.
• Zoroastrian Worship from an Interfaith Perspective (Shahin Bekhradnia): Details Zoroastrian worship as a celebration of life, praise of Ahura Mazda, and deprecation of evil, involving prayer and rituals. Zoroastrianism is monotheistic but recognizes yazatas (guardian angels). Historically, Zoroastrians showed tolerance towards other faiths, a spirit that is being revived in modern interfaith activities.
• Universal Worship (Swami Vivekananda): This excerpt from a 1893 speech emphasizes that all religions are various phases of one eternal religion, and that the ultimate goal is realizing the Lord. It advocates for a universal religion that embraces all, moving from truth to higher truth, and sees worship as a journey.
• Local Initiatives (Jean Potter): Based on a questionnaire sent to interfaith groups, this chapter discusses the development of local interfaith initiatives. It highlights the initial hesitations about interfaith worship due to fears of compromising beliefs, but also the reasons for its acceptance: shared spirituality, common humanity, and ethical values. The chapter outlines different forms of interfaith engagement, from visiting places of worship to "coming together to pray" with serial or united services, and provides practical advice for planning such events.

Part II: The Anthology

This section offers a collection of readings and prayers from various world religions, organized thematically around topics relevant to interfaith services. These themes include:

• Communities in Unity
• Compassion
• Forgiveness and Reconciliation
• Freedom and Justice
• Healing
• Human Dignity
• Our World
• Peace
• Relationships
• Together in Times of Trouble
• Tolerance
• Virtues

Each theme is supported by excerpts from sacred texts and spiritual writings of different faiths, providing a rich resource for devotional use and for understanding shared values across traditions.

Part III: Interfaith Services

This part presents examples of interfaith services, illustrating how the principles discussed in Part I are put into practice. These include:

• A World Congress of Faiths Service (early 1950s)
• A Civic Service in the Borough of Newham (1991)
• A Dudley Council of Faiths Prayer for World Peace (1992)
• A World Congress of Faiths Conference Service at Ammerdown (1993)
• An Observance for Commonwealth Day at Westminster Abbey (1997)
• An Interfaith Service of Celebration for the Fiftieth Anniversary of the UN Founding (1995)
• The Opening Ceremony of the British Interfaith Ecological Centre (imaginary service)
• An Interfaith Worship Service "Only One Earth" at Saint Benedict Center (1995)
• A Prayer for Victims of Land Mines (arranged by The Peace Council, USA)

These examples showcase a range of approaches to interfaith worship, from services with distinct contributions from each faith to more integrated forms, often focusing on shared concerns like peace, justice, and environmental stewardship.

Overall Purpose:

"All in Good Faith" serves as a comprehensive guide and resource for understanding and participating in interfaith prayer and worship. It addresses the theological and practical challenges, provides insights from various religious perspectives on prayer and interfaith engagement, and offers practical guidance and examples for organizing meaningful interfaith gatherings. The book advocates for interfaith dialogue and cooperation as a way to foster understanding, build fellowship, and work towards a more peaceful and just world.