Faith leaders unite at Eugene YMCA for interfaith dialogue

Panel explores religious inclusion and community building

by Marcia Veach, Eugene OR

Leaders from four major world faiths gathered at the Eugene Family YMCA on Nov. 17, 2025, for a panel discussion focused on interfaith dialogue and religious inclusion. The event, part of the Y’s “Promoting CommUNITY” series, drew community members eager to explore how diverse traditions can come together in a spirit of friendship and understanding.

The panel featured Rabbi Ruhi of the Jewish tradition, Ib Hamide representing the Muslim community, Vida Ellins of the Bahá’í Faith and Pastor Eric Dull from the Lutheran Christian tradition. Each panelist offered insights into their faith’s teachings on unity and respect, emphasizing the common belief that there is only one God and all are members of one human family.

“Consort with all religions with amity and concord, that they may inhale from you the sweet fragrance of God.” –Baháʼu’lláh

Panelists, recognizing the divisiveness in society, highlighted the importance of building bridges across faiths:

  • Rabbi Ruhi and Pastor Eric shared some spaces where they are already working together, such as the Stronger Together interfaith potluck.
  • Rabbi Ruhi noted that Pastor Eric’s church members showed up at temple during a particularly fraught time and provided both physical and moral support to the congregation
  • Ib Hamide spoke of the pillars of Islam that give guidance to Muslims, including prayer, fasting and charitable acts that support a loving community.
  • Vida Ellins shared stories about the Meaningful Conversations gathering, held at the Eugene Bahá’í Center every Saturday, which brings together people of any or no faith to discuss issues of importance to all in a respectful environment. One attendee, who had participated in the Meaningful Conversations programs, described them as “fantastic,” and “a safe space.”
  • Vida also shared that neighborhood-based junior youth spiritual empowerment programs are helping all interested young people learn how to consult together and to focus their efforts on being of service to their communities.

All panelists acknowledged the need for genuine connection in today’s diverse society and expressed their longing to expand the “big tent” of their faith tradition, so all feel welcome to enter.

“Consort with the followers of all religions in a spirit of friendliness and fellowship.” –Baháʼu’lláh

Organizers said the panel was part of ongoing efforts at the YMCA to foster community engagement and mutual respect, regardless of religious background. “We’re honored to welcome a diverse panel of faith leaders and community voices who bring deep experience and perspective to the topic of interfaith dialogue,” said a YMCA spokesperson.

The initiative aims to promote understanding and unity in Eugene and beyond, inspiring individuals to “inhale the sweet fragrance” of inclusion and peace.

“Be ye sincerely kind, not in appearance only.” –ʻAbdu’l-Bahá