Schedule-SC Interfaith Harmony Month!

(information subject to change by presenters)   Click to download pdf copy of schedule (updated 1-12-24)

Self-guided tours of Justice and Peace sites in South Carolina
Monday, January 1, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
From January 1-31, 2024, a list of Justice and Peace sites in South Carolina will be posted on the Camelot Excalibur Trust Ltd., website. The public is invited to visit these sites at their own pace, to expand their knowledge of efforts by people of many faiths to work together in the cause of unity and peace. We will encourage posting of virtual tours on social media under the hashtag #SCHarmonyTours – so that everyone can participate.
Questions: 803-587-9712 cfb@catherineflemingbruce.com

400th Birthday Anniversary of George Fox-Founder of Friends
Sunday, January 7 from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
You are cordially invited to a celebration in honor of the 400th birthday of George Fox, founder of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).
Our time together is scheduled to begin at 10am. We listen and wait for a direct experience of the Divine in silence. Some may be moved to share their experience by standing and speaking.
After 30 minutes of silent waiting, young Friends will share a play, mural, songs and games in celebration before we enjoy a potluck lunch together.
We welcome our guests from Columbia Interfaith Partners of SC during this month of Interfaith Harmony.
George Fox was an important 17th century religious figure who founded the Quaker movement. He traveled extensively throughout Britain and North America preaching and teaching his faith. Fox advocated for peace, equality, integrity, and living simply. His teachings helped shape Quaker practices that are still followed today.
Columbia Friends Meeting in Columbia, SC. 120 Pisgah Church Rd. Columbia, SC 29203
Questions and to RSVP: 803-269-4349 cfralix@windstream.net

Fire Communion at Regular Sunday Service
Sunday, January 7 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM
The fire ceremony is an annual January ritual for Unitarian Universalists. Based on the neo-pagan ritual of writing on paper, then burning the paper to release the words, UUs use the light of the chalice to move towards beginning again. Some fire ceremonies focus on letting go of the regrets of the past, others focus on hopes for the time yet to come. The flame represents that spark of life, of divine light, that is present in all beings. The power of life is embodied in fire which can create or destroy, a force of transformation that is dangerous, intense, and beautiful. We need fire: the light of the sun, the heat of the furnace – we are all dependent on the energy of combustion.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia 2701 Heyward Srreet, Columbia, SC 29205
Questions: 803-799-0845 csoehl@soehl.com

Contemplative Dialogue
Tuesday, January 9 from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Join Rev. Karen Romestan, minister of Unity of Augusta, for this four-week series of Contemplative Dialogue. We will meet on Zoom on January 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 6:30-8:00 pm. Contemplative Dialogue is based on the writings of Thomas Merton (Bridges to Contemplative Living- Module One) and is a process of listening and reflecting upon Merton’s writings and how they are meaningful in our everyday lives. Be comfortable joining one or all of these gatherings.
Register at www.unityofaugusta.org to receive the zoom link
rev.karenr@gmail.com  954-258-3456

Women of Many Faiths
Thursday, January 11 from 6:15 PM to 8:00 PM
Socializing, snacks and facilitated discussion – Faith & Family–what are the connections & influences?
Women of Many Faiths, hosted this occasion by Ascension Lutheran Church at 827 Wildwood Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203
Questions: 803-466-3110 mkennerly001@sc.rr.com or anne41450@aol.com

New Moon, New Year Prosperity Ritual
Thursday, January 11 from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Join us virtually on Zoom to celebrate the first New Moon of the Year with a Prosperity Ritual! New moons are traditionally for setting new intentions, and our focus for January’s new moon will be calling in abundance and prosperity as our intention. We will be writing ourselves a new moon prosperity & abundance check for 2024! You will need a candle (any candle is fine), and a piece of paper and pen. If you wish to simply observe, you are quite welcome to do so.
Awen Grove Pagan Fellowship
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwkdeyrqzotH9JDGd_q2ZViIs0YjkwnKNA4
Questions: text 803-339-4495 or pborawski@gmail.com

Lectio Divina
Thursday, January 11 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
We will describe and demonstrate the ancient practice of Lectio Divina. Zoom attendees are invited to participate or observe. Presented by an informal network of Christians.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85749114758 
Questions: 803-730-4987 saraofsc@yahoo.com

Department of Justice: Facilitating Meetings around Community Conflict
Friday, January 12 from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
A one-day training program designed to educate community leaders in the fundamentals of facilitating meetings where community tension requires difficult conversations. The program provides community leaders with the skills and tools to successfully facilitate meetings in their communities.
Training facilitated by the U.S. Department of Justice. (Eligible for 7 hours of CLEEC)
Train community leaders to prepare for, facilitate, and follow up after meetings
Educate community leaders on the fundamentals of conflict resolution
Practice the skills needed to successfully facilitate meetings that help groups to resolve conflict
Enhance community leaders’ effectiveness as meeting facilitators
Expand community leaders’ listening and observation skills to help them understand the varying perspectives of community members
Provide community leaders with tools, helpful tips, and resources to prepare for, conduct, and follow up after meetings designed to help resolve community conflict
15th Street Training Center, 916 15th Street Lancaster SC 29720
Questions: 8036613207 Nswinton@SCHAC.sc.gov

Understanding Islam and Muslims
Friday, January 12 from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Presentation followed by a panel discussion and time for questions. Snacks will be provided. Guests are requested to wear modest clothing – head covering for ladies is recommended but not mandatory.
PICNA (Peace and Integration Council of North America) and Masjid Noor Ul Huda
517 Winmet Drive, Columbia SC 29203
Questions: 803-210-7355 Chaudhry.Sadiq@yahoo.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTE: MultiFaith Open House Tours in Aiken moved to January 27, below.

The Unity of Humanity
Saturday, January 13 from 6:00 PM to 7:15 PM
With readings from the writings of our Baha’i Faith as well as books of other religions, and selections of music and poetry, we will celebrate the oneness of humanity in all its beautiful diversity, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In his words, “I have decided to stick with love, for hate is too great a burden to bear.”
Columbia Baha’i Community, location TBA
Questions: 803-944-4567 ladybahai2@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Introduction to Nichiren Buddhism
Sunday, January 14 from 11:00 AM to 12 Noon
Join us for an introduction to Nichiren Buddhism at the SC Buddhist Center. Learn about the history and practice of Buddhism and meet some of our local members who will share their experience with Buddhism. A question and answer session follows.
SC Buddhist Center, 228-B O’Neil Ct., Columbia SC 29223
Questions: eahendley@gmail.com 803-240-2037

The 12th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration
Sunday, January 14 at 4:00 PM
Ascension Lutheran Church honors the life and legacy of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with an ecumenical worship  service & potluck meal. Service will include reflections from special guest speaker The Rev. Marshall D. Morton, Sr. Rev. Morton, the pastor of Little Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Lake View, SC. We will also have greetings from various community organizations and musical selections from the Little Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church’s Choir. Please plan to stay and fellowship with one another after the service during a potluck meal. Bring your favorite dish to share with the community.
Ascension Lutheran Church, 829 Wildwood Ave, Columbia, SC 29203
Questions: 803-786-6429 jackie.utley@gmail.com

What is Worthy of Your Finitude?
Thursday, January 18 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Join us for a very special dialogue dinner event on January 18th in Greer as we listen to Dr Aaron J. Simmons the Philosopher, Professor and Author of his new book, Camping with Kierkegaard: Faithfulness as a Way of Life. In this book, Aaron Simmons takes us on a trip to the mountains to reflect on the meaning of life. In a world too often defined by a quest for “success” that leaves us empty, alone, and anxious, Simmons seeks “faithfulness“ outdoors with thinkers and artists from Aristotle to Kierkegaard, Sartre to Anne Lamott, and Kendrick Lamar to Donovan Woods. Simmons invites us to rethink what it means to make choices, take risks, be alone and silent while cultivating friendships, and to find our calling by facing our vulnerability. In the end, Simmons shows that faithfulness is more than a religious concept. It is about living a life of risk with direction. During this conversation we will share plans to create a weekend retreat with Dr Simmons. RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-is-worthy-of-your-finitude-tickets-775710319447
Atlantic Institute, 105 Marshland Lane, Greer, SC 29650
Questions: 813-716-4804 cbell@atlanticinstitutesc.org

Open Sabbath Service
Friday, January 19 at 6:00 PM
An invitation to the public to experience the timeless ceremony of Sabbath prayers at a synagogue.
Beth Shalom Synagogue 5827 N Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29206

Unity Open House
Saturday, January 20 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 PM
Opportunity for touring our Spiritual Space, speaking to members and asking any questions about Unity. Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus and the power of prayer. Unity honors the universal truths in all religions and respects each individual’s right to choose a spiritual path.
Unity of the Midlands 1801 Legrand Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
Questions: 803-736-5766 UnityoftheMidlands@gmail.com

Unity of the Religions: Our Creator’s Progressive Education for Humanity
Saturday, January 20 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Public talk and discussion sponsored by the Baha’i’s of the Upstate.
Central-Clemson Library, 105 Commons Way, Central, SC
Questions: 864-320-7926 shoaleh.young@yahoo.com, Facebook.com/PCBahaiFriends/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Introduction to Nichiren Buddhism
Sunday, January 21 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Join us for an introduction to Nichiren Buddhism at the SC Buddhist Center. Learn about the history and practice of Buddhism and meet some of our local members who will share their experience with Buddhism. A question and answer session follows.
SC Buddhist Center, 228-B O’Neil Ct., Columbia SC 29223
Questions: eahendley@gmail.com 803-240-2037

Candle Lighting at the Tree of Peace and Resistance CANCELLED till later this year
Sunday, January 21 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
2226 Hampton Street, the Visanska-Starks and Dr. Cyril O. Spann Historic Sites
An opportunity to drop in by the Tree of Peace and Resistance, dedicated in 2019 to commemorate the work of Black, Jewish, white and other groups in standing for peace and justice in the wake of the Mother Emanuel Charleston, Tree of Life Pittsburgh shootings and violence in every part of the world. The candle lighting starts at 5:30pm and site visitation afterward. Visitors will view new signage, site restoration and interpretive signage at the site.
Questions: 803-587-9712 cfb@catherineflemingbruce.com

Confronting Hate: A Conversation
Tuesday, January 23 at 7:00 PM on Zoom
A program of Interfaith Partners of South Carolina

IPSC presents (left top to bottom):

Rev. Eric Manning of Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston
Rabbi Jeffrey Myers of Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh
Dr. Jonathan Leader of University of South Carolina
Imam Omar Shaheed of Masjid-as-Salaam in Columbia

Join these four interfaith leaders as they discuss how tragedy changed the lives of their congregation members, themselves and the world, and how they have learned to carry forward a message that confronts hate in a better way. All are welcome to this free virtual program.

Click here to register and receive link. 

Click here to learn more about our guest panelists

 

Confronting Hate Watch Parties
Tuesday, January 23 at 7:00 PM on Zoom
In support of “Confronting Hate: A Conversation”, sponsored by Interfaith Partners of South Carolina, Camelot Excalibur Trust encourages individuals and organizations to host watch parties, where the community is invited to watch the panel discussion as a group in the host venue. Hosts are encouraged to offer refreshments and to have friends of different faiths to attend. We will do a brief zoom greeting at 6:45pm, to report out how many watch parties are happening. We hope this will increase the number of viewers watching and learning from the panel discussion.
Click here to register for a watch party 
Questions: 803-587-9712 cfb@catherineflemingbruce.com

Taste testing the difference between Coke and Pepsi
Thursday, January 25 from 7:00 to 9:30 PM
Chad Aldamuy and Sarah Kurlowich are hosting a taste testing experiment to quantify if participants can tell the difference between Coca-Cola and Pepsi in a statistically significant way.
2701 Heyward Street (at Woodrow), Columbia, SC 29205
803-766-8584

Walking the Labyrinth: A Pathway Experience
Saturday, January 27 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Walking the Labyrinth: A Pathway Experience
The labyrinth is not a maze but one circuitous path leading into the center of a pattern, and back out again. The walking of a labyrinth is a sort of pilgrimage of the soul. Visit any time during this time window.
SC Christian Action Council & Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary
4201 N Main St, Columbia, SC 29203
Questions: 919-616-4462 rmoore@scchristianactioncouncil.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Multi Faith Open House Tours
Saturday, January 27 from Noon to 4:00 PM
Multiple faiths will provide a tour of their buildings in historic downtown Aiken, share basic beliefs and answer questions.
Aiken Interfaith Partners
Questions: 803-341-8835 justserve.ruggles@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lights of Nut Virtual Ceremony
Sunday, January 28 from 4:30 to 5:00 PM
Temple Osireion hosts a virtual ceremony to honor the Egyptian goddess Nut and follow the nighttime journey of the sun through her body. All are welcome. Click to register and receive link
Questions: 803-422-4565 sekhmet@osireion.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Imbolc Eve Fire Feast CANCELLED
Wednesday, January 31 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
On the eve of Imbolc (sometimes called Candlemas or St. Brigid’s Day), you are invited out to the country to gather around the bonfire and celebrate the goddesses Brigid and The Cailleach as we look towards the coming end of winter. Our Imbolc Eve celebration will include meditation, chanting, candle lighting ritual, crafting a Brigid’s cross and feasting on traditional Imbolc foods including cheese, milk, and cakes.
Please bring a camp chair to sit around the fire, and dress for the weather! This is outdoors on Mela’s homestead. There is plenty of parking. If you’d like to dress in any of the traditional colors, they are white & silver (representing milk, purity & snow), green (Brigid’s color of healing), orange, yellow & red (fire colors) and any pale spring colors to usher in Spring.
Awen Grove Pagan Fellowship
2620 Sharpes Hill Road, Gaston SC 29053
Questions: text 803-339-4495 or pborawski@gmail.com