#Middlebury #Faith #OLLI
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Connecticut invites all adults aged 50+ to a free online event Wednesday, August 11, 2021. The Three Amigos, Monsignor Joseph Donnelly of Sacred Heart Church, Southbury; Imam Gazmend Aga of the Albanian American Muslim Community; and Rabbi Eric Polokoff of B’nai Israel, will present “Re-Engagement in Our Three Faith Traditions.” This event is free and open to all.
Rabbi Polokoff said of the event, “Our three faith traditions have long histories and extensive experience in reaffirming life and continuities in the aftermath of adversity or calamity. We seek to bring this collective wisdom to the current pandemic.”
The event will be followed by two more presentations, on October 6, “Spirituality in Our Three Faith Traditions” and November 3, “Worship In Our Three Faith Traditions.” These two events are free for OLLI members, and $10 for nonmembers.
The Three Amigos have been highly popular guests at many venues, discussing faith and community from the point of view of Judaism, Catholicism, and Islam. The inception of the concept began when Trinity Health of New England acquired a heritage version of the St. John’s Bible, and sent one volume to Waterbury to St. Mary’s Hospital. That volume was the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, and the foundational text for all three monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Rabbi Eric Polokoff, Imam Gazmend Aga, and Monsignor Joseph Donnelly were invited to a ceremony at the hospital to welcome the text. The conversation among the three was so energetic and enlightening that the trio believed they should expand their conversation, open it to the public, and take it on the road.
Imam Gazi said, “‘The Three Amigos’ is an interfaith initiative to build bridges of peace among people, regardless of their faith, through joy, prayer, and spiritual reflection.”
OLLI offers diverse learning experiences for anyone, regardless of educational background. OLLI also encourages senior centers, and professionals working with older adults, to attend this event. There is no educational requirement to join OLLI. Many classes are developed and taught by individuals who volunteer their time to share their knowledge and experience with other members.
Registration for the OLLI Fall 2021 semester opens Monday, August 9, at 9 a.m. Session dates are September 7 to November 12. Daytime and evening courses are offered Monday through Friday during the semester. For registration and further information, visit OLLI’s website, olli.uconn.edu, email osher@uconn.edu or call 475-222-6232 / 6261.
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