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2008 Abraham Walk
Sunday, October 19, 2008
2:00-6:00 PM
Dell Jewish Community Campus, 7300 Hart Ln. | Over 4000 years ago, the Prophet Abraham, the patriarch of Jews, Christians and Muslims, responded to God's call and embarked on an extraordinary journey of faith. Austin's local Abraham Path Initiative is part of an international effort to create an actual pilgrimage through the heart of the Middle East on a path that Abraham himself might have traveled. The path, beginning in Harran, Turkey will cross Syria and Jordan and end at Abraham’s tomb in Al Khalil/Hebron. The project serves to underscore and disseminate Abraham's universal messages of oneness, unity, faith, justice, peace, and hospitality toward all.
The PurposeIt is widely known that religion is deeply implicated particularly in the conflict in the Middle East, and also in communities like ours in the United States. The potential role of spirituality in conflict transformation, however, is less well understood. One of the most important findings of conflict resolution research in recent years is that the global peace-building community is now identifying important ways in which spiritually motivated action can and is contributing to the healing of deep wounds that, left unattended, perpetuate tragic conflict.
Recreating the PilgrimageThe power of pilgrimages to shift consciousness and culture throughout time is well documented. By their nature, they allow people to literally step away from their distractions and daily demands, opening infinite possibilities for reflection and insight. Pilgrimages provide a rare opportunity to walk away from preconceived stereotypes and misunderstandings—and enter into new, respectful, connections.
Austin’s 3rd Annual Abraham WalkThe one-mile journey at Dell Jewish Community Campus will provide participants an opportunity to engage in dialogue and reflect on theProphet Abraham's call for unity and peace. The walk in October will culminate with a speech delivered by Judea Pearl, creator of the Daniel Pearl Foundation and leader in the movement to heal relations between Jews and Muslims.
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