The Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations hosted Window on the World’s Religion: Judaism and Islam. Photo: Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations.
On Thursday 27 August, the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations hosted Window on the World’s Religion: Judaism and Islam, a community event bringing together a diverse group of Western Sydney residents and faith leaders to explore the enduring customs, teachings and history of these ancient monotheistic traditions. It was the second seminar in the series, with last year’s event featuring Hinduism and Sikhism.
Held at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre in Blacktown, the evening shifted the focus from abstract study to the authentic, lived experience of walking a pilgrim path toward God. Designed to foster religious literacy and neighbourly respect, the interactive gathering moved beyond standard lectures, using sacred artifacts and open dialogue to illustrate how both traditions guide believers in their daily lives.
The gathering featured teams of dedicated presenters who offered a window into the core practices and devotional life of their respective traditions. Meeting, listening to, and engaging with the believers themselves, rather than seeing or reading about them in the media, the event was designed to counter the misinformation, disinformation, antisemitism, and Islamophobia that is causing division in our society. It provided accurate information with a view to fostering respect, and social cohesion.
The Jewish Path
Rabbi George Mordecai, Michal Frankel, Micah Esra from Emanuel Synagogue presented the Jewish way of life. Rabbi George brought sacred scripture into the room by chanting directly from a Torah scroll, filling the space with ancient melodies. Grounding theology in weekly domestic routine, Michal shared traditional braided challah with the audience while explaining how the Sabbath provides a sanctuary in time to reconnect with the Creator, family, and community.
The Islamic Path
Osman Karolia from the Islamic College of Sport NSW and Asiya Rodrigo from Together for Humanity outlined the foundational pillars of Islamic devotion. They traced the deep historical presence of Islam in Australia, from early Macassan traders interacting with First Nations peoples to the Afghan camel drivers who navigated the interior. Their presentation detailed how daily prayer, charity, and constant mindfulness of God frame a Muslim’s journey in modern Australian society.
Following the structure, attendees engaged in direct dialogue during dedicated question-and-answer. Participants asked questions regarding scriptural interpretation, prayer habits, and the practicalities of maintaining sacred traditions within a secular society.
Encounter on the Shared Journey
The Columban Centre, located in the Diocese of Parramatta, serves as a hub for interfaith initiatives, working to replace division with mutual understanding. The evening opened with shared refreshments, creating a hospitable atmosphere where participants could meet over food prior to the formal sessions.
The gathering concluded with a collective reflection session. While doctrinal distinctions between the traditions remain clear and were fully respected, experiencing these living faiths side-by-side, from the chanted words of the Torah to the testimony of Islamic practice, highlighted key points of commonality: a shared devotion to the love of God, hospitality to the stranger, and a pursuit of peace within the local community.
Window on the World’s Religions can be offered to schools, parishes, and community organisations. If you would like to host an event, please contact the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations at info.cccmr@columban.org.au.
Kim Chong is the Media & Community Liaison at the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations in Sydney.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban eBulletin
