Imagine Different Religions Under One Roof - Jim Merhaut

We imagine and long for a future in which all world religions will peacefully coexist, and we suffer under the pain of knowing that one of the greatest scandals of religion is that we too often find ourselves at war with each other. Imagining the future is a critical prophetic task of religion and all faith formation programs should have an eye on our ultimate future: the peaceful reign of God. Every once in a while, something happens that captures the future with a powerful concrete symbol. When it does, faith formation leaders can take advantage of it as a teachable moment.

The world has recently been introduced to the House of One in Berlin, Germany. The House of One is a project that will result in a worship space that is shared by the three great monotheistic religions descended from Abraham. A Jewish Rabbi, an Islamic Imam and a Lutheran Pastor… no, don’t wait for the punch line… are working together to do what the world expects religions to do… get along! The House of One will serve the distinct worship needs of each religion by including a synagogue, a church and a mosque while also providing a common space at the center where all three religions can gather along with the general public to dialogue and to learn about and from each other.

Visit www.house-of-one.org/en to explore the project. Then consider the following questions as you reflect upon this astounding vision:

1. What Bible passages come to mind when you explore the House of One?
   
2. What obstacles prevent your church from working more closely with other Christian churches in your area?
   
3. What obstacles prevent your church from collaborating with Jews and Muslims in your community?
   
4. What opportunities present themselves to your church as you reflect upon the House of One?
   
5. How can you teach others in your church about the House of One?
   
6. What other steps can you take to help bring the vision of the House of One alive for your church?