In Era of Religious Conflict, Understanding Breeds Peace

Religious leaders from 12 world faiths join to foster dialogue, understanding and tolerance at a three-part forum at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles.

Watch the news today and you will see acts of violence, hate crimes and terrorism, supposedly performed in the name of one religion or another. Suicide bombings and mass shootings appear to be the order of the day. And religion, with the purpose of bringing peace and love and helping one’s fellow man, is often blamed for these heinous acts. But is this true? Many blame religions, not the ethics and morals of the individuals who commit these crimes.

Youth for Human Rights of Southern California was formed to teach youth the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and inspire them to become advocates for tolerance and peace. As ignorance breeds distrust, the group organized three forums promoting understanding of religions. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles, the first forum included a Muslim, a Baha’i and a Zoroastrian. The second forum explored Judeo-Christian beliefs and included representatives of the Baptists, the Armenian Orthodox Church, Judaism and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The final forum presented Eastern religious practices including Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism and Falun Gong.

Each religious leader shared the core beliefs of his religion and dispelled common misunderstandings. The speakers then answered questions from the audience including what happens after death, what they hold in common with other religions, and their views on human rights.

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support Youth for Human Rights. The group’s award-winning educational materials are translated into 27 languages.