The Role of Theological Seminaries in Increasing Interfaith Cooperation in the United States: The CIRCLE Program of Andover Newton Theological School and Hebrew College

Abstract

Seminaries have an important role to play in the movement toward greater interfaith cooperation and understanding as training grounds for future moral and spiritual leaders. If individuals seek to create a strong civil society that honors religious difference, they need religious leaders with the knowledge, skills, and experience to facilitate constructive dialogue. They, therefore, need institutions that provide opportunities for interfaith education. The author describes the programming and priorities of the Center for Interreligious and Communal Leadership Education (CIRCLE), a joint initiative between Andover Newton Theological School and Hebrew College.