--- title: 2026 Interfaith Symposium description: Join faith leaders in Chicago for the 2026 Interfaith Symposium on October 14th. Learn from speakers, network, and share insights on building faith, addressing doubts and connecting with the next generation. Register now for this timely event! --- [![Screenshot 2025-05-07 at 10.25.43 AM](https://interfaithchicago.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202025-05-07%20at%2010.25.43%20AM.jpg?width=1305&height=151&name=Screenshot%202025-05-07%20at%2010.25.43%20AM.jpg)](https://www.interfaithchicago.org?hsLang=en) - [Register](https://interfaithchicago.org/#register) Open Close - [Register](https://interfaithchicago.org/#register) - [Contact us](https://share.hsforms.com/162tBYS-CQRmjENoHINFt0Ar9ef5) [Contact us](https://share.hsforms.com/162tBYS-CQRmjENoHINFt0Ar9ef5)   ## Fourth Annual Interfaith Symposium *“Faith, Doubt, and the Next Generation”*  *Listening to Doubt, Reimagining Faith, Rebuilding Connection*  **Wednesday, October 14, 2026** **10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 822 N. Clark Street, Chicago** (Free garage parking) Join faith and community leaders from across Chicagoland for meaningful interfaith dialogue, insights, fellowship, and connection. Sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this year’s symposium explores the timely topic “Faith, Doubt, and the Next Generation: Listening to Doubt, Reimagining Faith, Rebuilding Connection.” The program will review the latest trends on religious activity in the United States. Experts and diverse faith panels will discuss practical ideas for helping loved ones through periods of doubt and uncertainty. A panel of young adults from many faiths will describe the evolving role of religion for their generation in their diverse traditions.  Please come to learn from others and to share your experience and perspective on these vital issues.  [Save Your Spot](https://interfaithchicago.org/?hsLang=en#register) *Admission is free, but space is limited.* **Questions?** Contact Bruce Duffield at **info@interfaithchicago.org** or **312-371-7068** --- *Schedule* - **8:30 AM:** Registration & Continental Breakfast (Halal, Kosher, Vegetarian Options) - **9:00 AM – 10:15 AM:** Opening Session - **10:15 AM - 10:30 AM :** Refreshment Break in Foyer and Patio - **10:30 AM - 11:30 AM:** Second Session - **11:30 AM - 12:00 PM:** Closing Session - **12:00 PM - 1:00 PM:** Buffet Lunch and Discussion (Halal, Kosher, and Vegetarian Option)   --- *Opening Prayer* Regina Brent of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Advisory Committee and Unity Partnership *Closing Prayer* Rev. Dr. Anna Piela of the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago   --- *Opening Session Speakers* - **President Brent Smith** – Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Temples - **Cyrus Rivetna** – Zoroastrian Fire Temples - Architecture Ancient and Modern - **Asayo Horibe** – Buddhist Temples - **Imam Rizwan Ali** – Islamic Mosques - **Ranganathan Hemmige** – Hindu Temples - **Bill Buchholtz** –Nature as Sacred Space, and performance on Native American Flute   *Second Session Speakers* - **Shiva Singh Khalsa** – Sikh Gurdwaras and performance on Sikh Harmonium - **Jonathan “Pastah J” Brooks** – Lawndale Christian Community Church: Creating Sacred Spaces - **Nisan Chavkin** – Jewish Synagogues - **Fr. Richard Fragomeni** - Roman Catholic Sacred Spaces - **Shayda Safapour** – Baha’i Temples *Closing Session Speakers* - **Hannah Smith** – International Center for Law and Religion Studies, BYU Law School - **Elder Steven Shumway** – General Authority Seventy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - **Bishop Simon Gordon** – Inspired Music for Sacred Spaces, vocal and piano performance     ## Speakers Steven Collis University of Texas School of Law A law professor at the [University of Texas School of Law](https://law.utexas.edu/faculty/steven-t-collis/), Steven T. Collis is one of the leading academics in the nation on religion law, productive discourse, and the First Amendment. His scholarship has been cited by numerous state and federal appellate courts and the United States Supreme Court. He is also the founding faculty director of Texas's Bech-Loughlin First Amendment Center and its Law and Religion Clinic. Before joining the faculty at Texas, he was a research fellow at Stanford Law School and an equity partner at Holland & Hart LLP, where he chaired the firm’s religious institutions and First Amendment practice group. The author of three critically acclaimed books related to helping a pluralistic society thrive, he has been interviewed by and quoted in various news and media outlets, including *The New York Times,* Bloomberg, NBC, CBN News, NPR, *The Washington Post,* PBS, and numerous podcasts and television shows. His fourth book, *Habits of a Peacemaker*, launches in September 2024. Shayda Safapour Bahá’í Faith Shayda Safapour is a member of the Bahá’í Faith and serves as the Bahá’í representative on the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago and other interfaith and community organizations.  She has spoken over the years at many interfaith gatherings, including the 2023 Parliament of the World’s Religions convening in Chicago. Shayda is an immigration attorney with a B.A. from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, a J.D. from Suffolk University Law School in Boston, and an M.B.A. from Suffolk University School of Managaement in Boston.  She holds a certificate on Women in Leadership from Harvard University and a certificate on Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. Shayda has practiced at several prominent law firms in Chicago, and currently serves as a business development manager for the firm of Honigman LLP.  She lives in downtown Chicago with her malshi dog, Asal. Rabbi Shoshanah Conover Temple Sholom of Chicago Rabbi Shoshanah Conover is the 8th Senior Rabbi of [Temple Sholom of Chicago](https://www.sholomchicago.org) in its 152-year history.  She earned a B.A. in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dean’s List, Cum Laude. Her love of the Jewish people and Jewish texts, as well as a strong commitment to social justice, led her to rabbinical school. Rabbi Conover’s responsibilities at Temple Sholom of Chicago reflect her passions: learning and teaching inspiring (and challenging) texts, leading dynamic and engaging spiritual experiences, serving as pastoral counselor, and finding ways to improve our world through the guidelines of her faith. Rabbi Conover is a Senior Rabbinic Fellow of the Shalom Hartman Institute.  She serves on the Steering Committee of the Chicago Status of Women and Girls Working Group and is in the founding cohort of the Aspen Institute’s Powering Pluralism Network, a national network of faith, civic, and academic thought-leaders who seek to weave a stronger fabric of civility in our national dialogue through institutions of faith. Rabbi Conover was honored to receive AVODAH’s Partner in Tzedek Award and the Chicago Board of Rabbis’ Rabbi Mordecai Simon Memorial Award as well as being a featured speaker at the Women’s March on Chicago 2017. She enjoys co-hosting a podcast on Jewish and Israeli films called The Chosen Films.  Her poems and essays have been published in numerous collections including[*A Life of Meaning: Embracing Reform Judaism's Sacred Path*](https://www.ccarpress.org/shopping_product_detail.asp?pid=50397)*,* [*Seven Days, Many Voices: Insights into the Biblical Story of Creation*](https://www.ccarpress.org/shopping_product_detail.asp?pid=50388), and [*Moral Resistance and*](https://www.ccarpress.org/shopping_product_detail.asp?pid=50435)[*SpiritualAuthority*](https://www.ccarpress.org/shopping_product_detail.asp?pid=50435). Rabbi Conover is grateful to work in and for a community in which she is proud to raise her two sons Eli and Ben with her husband Damien. Fr. Larry Dowling, M.Div, D.Min St. Simon of Cyrene Parish, Archdiocese of Chicago Fr. Larry Dowling, ordained in 1991, retired on June 30, 2024 as 17-1/2-yr pastor of St. Simon of Cyrene Parish (locations at St. Agatha & St. Martin de Porres Churches), a predominantly African American parish on Chicago’s west side. He has served as pastor of St. Denis Parish and as Associate Pastor at St. James in Arlington Heights, IL. He has a passion for healing and restoration of spirit, mind and body of those who have suffered trauma from the multiple ongoing manifestations of systemic racism. He helped establish a free mental health center, the Encompassing Center, for the Chicago West Side community. He served on the Steering Committee to create the first Restorative Justice Community Court in Cook County. He is a founding member of the Archdiocesan Healing Garden Committee, a coalition of clergy and victim-survivors of child and youth sexual abuse. His justice work includes moderator of the 150 member Priests for Justice for Immigrants in Chicago; former President of the Board for ARISE Chicago, an interfaith labor rights organization; Advisory Board chair for the Archdiocesan effort to respond to the men, women and children seeking asylum; Advisory Board member for Parenting for Non-Violence (P4NV) in Chicago; and, Board member of the Tolton Black Scholars Advisory Board at Catholic Theological Union. He also serves as Board President of the ACTA Foundation, promoting innovative adult Catholic teaching and formation programs addressing current societal problems. He is a Board Member of CodeSwitchers LLC, helping Executive Director Deontay Wilson produce documentary projects focused on the Black community and pan-African connections. He is a trained Restorative Justice practitioner, published writer, an avid reader, hiker and cyclist. Imam Hassan Mostafa Aly Humanitarian Faith Initiative, MedGlobal Imam Hassan Mostafa Aly is the Director of the [Humanitarian Faith Initiative](https://humanitarianfaithinitiative.org), bringing over 15 years of experience as a respected faith leader, scholar, and advocate for humanitarian causes. He also serves as the Director of Community Engagement and Global Partnerships at [MedGlobal](https://medglobal.org), where he works to connect faith-based and humanitarian organizations to address critical health needs in crisis-affected areas. Imam Aly has served as Principal Imam and Director of Religious Affairs at [The Mecca Center](https://meccacenter.org) in Willowbrook, IL, and has held key leadership roles at various Islamic centers across the United States. A distinguished graduate of Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, Imam Aly earned a degree in Islamic Studies and Theology. His oratory skills were recognized early in his career when he received the prestigious Best Religious Speech Award from Al-Azhar University in 2002. He has also expanded his outreach by hosting several Islamic radio programs in the U.S., promoting dialogue and education on Islamic principles. Currently, Imam Aly is pursuing a Ph.D. in Theology at the Lutheran School of Theology and serves as an Adjunct Professor at Lewis University. His work continues to bridge faith and humanitarianism, fostering interfaith collaboration to address both local challenges and global crises. Bishop Simon Gordon Triedstone Church of Chicago and President, Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago Bishop Simon Gordon is the current president of the [Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago](https://www.crlmc.org).  Since 1989, Bishop Gordon has served as the Senior Pastor of [Triedstone Church of Chicago](http://triedstonecoc.com), a Full Gospel Baptist Church, located on the south side of Chicago, IL. In this position, he shepherds a congregation of 3,000, 30 support ministries, and 14 senior pastors who are also responsible for their own congregations. Bishop Gordon has served as an advisor on the White House Faith-Based Council during the first term of President Barack Obama and with St. Jude’s Cancer Research Children’s Hospital as the Associate of the Sunday of Hope Promotions out of Memphis, TN. He is a member of the Board of Prevention Partnership, Inc. as the Faith Based Chair for HIV Awareness and Substance Abuse Prevention. Bishop Gordon is a recipient of the prestigious Paul Kelly Service Award, the Path Award twice from the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the United Theological Seminary’s President’s Award. He is currently a Regent at the Midwest Theology Seminary in Kansas. Bishop Gordon has led over 50 overseas expeditions; and serves as an Instructor for African American Clergy and Educators in Ethiopia, Egypt, Israel, Greece, Turkey, Rome and South Africa. Swami Ishatmananda Vivekananda Vedanta Society of Chicago Swami Ishatmananda is a monk of the Ramakrishna Mission, associated with the holy order at Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, India. Srimat Swami Vireshwaranandaji Maharaj, the 10th President of the Order, blessed him with initiation in 1975 and Srimat Swami Gambhiranandaji Maharaj bestowed with Sanyasa in 1986. He has worked at the well-known publication department, Advaita Ashrama of the Ramakrishna Mission in Kolkata, West Bengal. He is the Founding Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission, Port Blair, Andaman Islands.  He was the Principal-cum-Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission School, Narottam Nagar, Tirap, Arunachal Pradesh. In 2014 he was appointed as one of the Religious Advisers at the University of Chicago, and in 2020 he was selected as a Trustee of the Parliament of World Religions. He also serves as a trustee of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago.  He has lectured widely and published several articles. Since 2013 he has served as the President of the [Vivekananda Vedanta Society of Chicago](https://chicagovedanta.org).  Under the able leadership of Swami Ishatmananda, the Society inaugurated the "Home of Harmony" in to promote the harmony of religions. It houses a towering statue, the tallest of its kind, of Sri Ramakrishna, serving as the true symbol of the Harmony of Religions. Roshan Rivetna Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America Roshan Rivetna, along with her husband Rohinton Rivetna, founding President of FEZANA ([Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America](https://fezana.org)) is deeply committed to perpetuating the Zoroastrian religion and traditions in North America. Perhaps she is best known for her stewardship (as Editor-Publisher) of *FEZANA Journal*, the flagship magazine of FEZANA. Her publications -- *Legacy of Zarathushtra, Zoroastrian Connections with Judaism and Christianity, My Mother Used to Say* and *Zoroastrians – Followers of an Ancient Faith in a Modern World*, have been widely used to showcase Zoroastrian history, religion and culture.  Herdemographic studies -- *The Zarathushti World – a Demographic Picture* *\[FEZANA Journal, Fall 2013\]* have raised consciousness of the concerns and issues facing the world widecommunity. Roshan has a Masters degree in Nuclear Physics and pursued a career at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bombay, Argonne National Laboratory and AT&T Bell Laboratories. Since retirement in 2000, Roshan devotes her attention to promoting Parsi-Zoroastrian culinary traditions *\[www.ParsiCuisine.com/ParsiMithaiShop\]*.  Her efforts at bringing Zoroastrian singles together, were featured in *Matters of Heart and Faith Guide a Zoroastrian Matchmaker* in the Valentines Day issue of the *New York Times* *\[February 7, 2009\]*. Dean Isensee Buddha's Light International Association Dean Isensee is currently the Vice President of the Chicago English Subchapter of [Buddha’s Light International Association](http://www.bliango.org) (BLIA). He is a lay devotee who has adhered to the bodhisattva way of life since first coming into contact with the concept as a young man. He is a representative of BLIA for the Naperville World Peace Day Steering Committee. He is retired and spends a great deal of time traveling throughout the world. He has a daily meditation practice which he has followed for the past forty-five years. It has been a great aid for instilling the values of peace in his everyday life. It has been said by many great spiritual teachers, of diverse traditions, that peace begins with each and everyone of us. Corbin Coombs The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elder Corbin E. Coombs was named an Area Seventy and a member of the Tenth Quorum of the Seventy of [The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/?lang=eng) in April 2021.     Elder Coombs received both bachelors and masters degrees in statistics from Brigham Young University. He worked for AT&T with responsibilities including market research, marketing analytics, product management, strategy, operations, carrier relations, and data analytics. He founded LPVISTA LLC, a business and operations consulting company, in 2023.   Elder Coombs was born in Lawrence, Kansas, and was raised in St. George, Utah. He married Margo Webster Nelson and they are the parents of four children. Elder and Sister Coombs reside in Schaumburg, Illinois.   ## Musicians William Buchholtz (Allison) (MAMAAZHI MUKWA) Conquering Bear William Buchholtz (Allison), Algonquin/Metis, is a long-time resident of the Chicago area who has been playing and recording music of many genres for five decades. He now performs Native American flute and piano in programming aimed at both children and adults. Bill is primarily known for his ongoing work with numerous churches; interfaith, social justice and environmental groups; museums; and cultural events including PowWows.  He has released his own CD "The Journey Home," on which he plays both Native American flute and piano, and which features his original songs, and has also appeared on a “Yo Yo Ma's Silk Road Ensemble” Shiva Singh Khalsa Sikh Dharma International Shiva Singh Khalsa is a Minister of [Sikh Dharma International](https://www.sikhdharma.org) who is a respected presenter of Sikh history and beliefs. He is President / CEO of Spirit Rising Foundation in Chicago, whose mission is to share with all the teachings of kundalini yoga and conscious living to allow a person to in live in the ever-changing world, be active in society and to experience the ecstasy of consciousness.   ## Schedule Wednesday, October 14th 9:15 – 9:55 Arrival, Check-in, Light breakfast 10:00 - 10:15 Welcome and Opening Prayer 10:15 - 11:00 Keynote Address ![JustinBYUStudiesPic-1](https://interfaithchicago.org/hs-fs/hubfs/JustinBYUStudiesPic-1.jpg?width=90&height=90&length=90&name=JustinBYUStudiesPic-1.jpg) Dr. Justin Dyer Professor of Religion, BYU 11:00 - 11:15 BREAK 11:15 - 11:25 Musical Performance 11:25 - 12:25 Faith Leader Panel Discussion - Bishop Byron T. Brazier, Apostolic Church of God - Pam Caine, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints - Dr. Justin Dyer, Brigham Young University, moderator - Rabbi Ari Hart, Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue - Shaykh Umair Haseeb, Chaplain, Northwestern University, Resident Scholar, Mozaic - Mike Rolfes, Park Community Church, Executive Director of Renew Chicago and the Chicago Sunday Evening Club - Anand Soni, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chicago 12:25 - 12:30 Prayer 12:30 - 1:15 Lunch Kosher, halal, vegetarian, gluten-free options 1:15 - 2:15 Young Adult Panel Discussion - Olivia Ahlberg, Archdiocese of Chicago, John Paul II Newman Center at UIC - Brittany Applegate, Ruach Covenant Church Chicago - Alan Bukingolts, AJC ACCESS Chicago (American Jewish Committee) - Meg Huber, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, moderator - Leyla Begum Ozbey, MOSAIC Chicago Board Member and Niagara Foundation Youth Dialogue Representative - Ketan Vaghani, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Youth Fellowship 2:15 - 2:45 Interactive Summary 2:45 - 2:55 Remarks and Closing Charge 2:55 - 3:00 Closing Prayer   ## Frequently Asked Questions Short description text goes here A question goes here A detailed answer goes here. ## Location **The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints** 822 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60610 Free on-site parking --- # *Speakers* **Rev. Dr. Jonathan Brooks** is a lifelong resident of Chicago, IL and currently serves as Lead Pastor at Lawndale Christian Community Church and the Chief Inspiration Officer for Lawndale Christian Ministries which includes Lawndale Christian Health Center, Lawndale Christian Development Corporation and Lawndale Christian Legal Center.  Pastah J, as he is affectionately called, is a sought-after speaker, writer, artist, organizer and community developer.  He has contributed to numerous blogs, articles and books and is the author of the book *Church Forsaken: Practicing Presence in Neglected Neighborhoods* published by Intervarsity Press.    Jonathan has a Bachelor of Architecture from Tuskegee University, Master of Arts in Teaching from National Louis University, as well as a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Northern Seminary with an emphasis in Christian Community Development. He is married to Micheál Newman-Brooks, has two beautiful children and lives in the North Lawndale neighborhood on the West Side of Chicago. **Dr. Rizwan Ali** is currently the Senior Imam and Religious Director of the Islamic Center of Naperville. He also serves as the head of the Quran, Arabic and Islamic Studies department at CPSA in Lombard, IL, and is an instructor for Mishkah University. He attended Islamic Foundation School in Villa Park, IL and completed his Hifdh there as well. After graduation, he attended Benedictine University and obtained his Bachelors Degree in Social Sciences with a minor in Secondary Education. After completing his undergraduate degree, he moved to Alexandria, Egypt where he studied Arabic and Islamic studies and enrolled in Al-Azhar University. Simultaneously, he completed his master's degree from Saint Xavier University in Curriculum and Instruction as well as his doctorate in Educational Leadership from Creighton University. He holds a degree in Islamic Law from al-Azhar University and has ijazahs in the Qira'ah of Hafs 'an A'asim. He lives in the Chicagoland suburbs with his wife and three daughters. **Shayda Safapour** is a member of the Baha’i Faith and serves as the Baha’i representative on the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago and other interfaith and community organizations.  She has spoken over the years at many interfaith gatherings, including the 2023 Parliament of the World’s Religions convening in Chicago. Shayda is an immigration attorney with a B.A. from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, a J.D. from Suffolk University Law School in Boston, and an M.B.A. from Suffolk University School of Management in Boston.  She holds a certificate on Women in Leadership from Harvard University and a certificate on Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. Shayda has practiced at several prominent law firms in Chicago and currently serves as a business development manager for the firm of Honigman LLP.  She lives in downtown Chicago with her malshi dog, Asal. **Brent K. Smith** currently serves as the President of the Schaumburg Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, overseeing seven congregations in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago.  Brent has held many church leadership positions, including Bishop of The Arlington Heights Ward, and Temple Recorder for the Chicago Illinois and Nauvoo Illinois Temples.  Professionally, Brent is employed by the Temple Department of the LDS church and oversees the operation of 104 of the church’s temples in the United States and Canada.  Brent’s professional and ecclesiastical responsibilities provide him with a dual perspective on temples, their sacred role in LDS theology, and their profound importance to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Before his employment with the LDS Church, Brent used his education in international finance in management positions with IBM, Motorola, and Google.  Brent and his wife, Amy, are the parents of eight children and one grandchild. **Rev. Richard Fragomeni** is a presbyter of the Diocese of Albany, New York, and has been a member of the Catholic Theological Union faculty since 1990.  He serves as Professor of Liturgy and Preaching and Chair of the Department of Word and Worship.  He received his Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology and Masters Degrees at the University of Louvain, Belgium, and additional Masters and Doctor of Philosophy Degrees at The Catholic University of America. His teaching involves him in Roman Catholic theology, interpretation theory, and poetry. His current work is in the field of word and sacrament: the intersection of symbolic activity and language as it creates insights into the Christian proclamation of grace. Central to this work is a fascination with the power of liturgy and preaching in the transformation of the human heart. Richard is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Religious Studies at DePaul University. He also serves as the Rector of The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, an Italian-American spiritual center in Chicago’s historic Little Italy. In addition to his teaching duties he is a preacher of parish missions and gives presentations nationally and internationally on liturgical, sacramental, and catechetical topics. **Elder Andrew Child** serves as the Area Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Chicago. The priesthood office of “Seventy” designates a person called by the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to be an “especial witness of Jesus Christ.”  Elder Child’s responsibilities include traveling as assigned by the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to support and minister to LDS members, leaders, and congregations throughout North America.  Elder Child also has specific area authority overseeing the 82 LDS congregations in the greater Chicago area, including northeastern Illinois and northwestern Indiana.  Elder Child has held many church leadership positions, including President of the Naperville Illinois Stake and Bishop of Naperville First Ward.  Professionally, Andrew is a tax manager at BP, where he has worked for over twenty years.  He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Brigham Young University. Andrew and his wife, Jessica, have lived in Naperville for 25 years.  They are the parents of seven children. **William Buchholtz (Allison) (MAMAAZHI MUKWA)** – Conquering Bear William Buchholtz (Allison), Algonquin/Metis, is a long-time resident of the Chicago area who has been playing and recording music of many genres for five decades. He now performs Native American flute and piano in programming aimed at both children and adults. Bill is primarily known for his ongoing work with numerous churches; interfaith, social justice and environmental groups; museums; and cultural events including PowWows.  He has released his own CD "The Journey Home," on which he plays both Native American flute and piano, and which features his original songs, and has also appeared on a “Yo Yo Ma's Silk Road Ensemble” **Pam Caine** has over 20 years of experience working with families as a therapist, social worker, educator, advocate, and mentor. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she has served in various leadership roles supporting children, adolescents and women in her congregation. Pam and her husband, Steve, who share a love for skiing, biking and hiking, have been married for 30 years and have four young adult children. They enjoy their empty nest and currently serve as Diplomatic Liaisons for their church to more than 60 countries represented in the Chicago area. **Ranganathan Hemmige** grew up in an orthodox family in Mysore, South India. He had a bright academic record with a double master’s degree in the U.S.A. He retired after a successful and productive career in IT executive management. He learned Sanskrit as a child and participated in many recitals and won awards in debates and contests. He studied numerous scriptures with Vedanta Vidwan late Dr. N.S. Anantha Rangacharya, Bangalore. He is passionate about reciting the Vedas and leading the parayanas at homes and temples. Due to his keen interest in the Vedas and Sanatana Dharma, he does extensive research on these topics, and authors white papers for souvenirs and periodicals. He has toured our Divya Deshams in India extensively and has deep appreciation for the rich temple culture of our motherland. During the past three decades, he has served as the Religious Chair at Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple of Greater Chicago, organizing major religious events. He lectures very frequently at several interfaith forums, colleges, and special events to educate communities on the Hindu religion. These spiritual experiences have enhanced his knowledge on how to take scriptures written centuries ago and apply them to life today. He teaches religious classes for adults and children. He published a book, to commemorate Bhagavad Ramanuja Acharya’s Millennium in 2017. This publication has received positive feedback and accolades for bringing out the contribution of the great Acharya. Sri Hemmige lives with his wife Aruna in the Greater Chicago, Illinois, USA. He has a daughter and two sons that are all well accomplished. **Bishop Simon Gordon** is the current president of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago.  Since 1989, Bishop Gordon has served as the Senior Pastor of Triedstone Church of Chicago, a Full Gospel Baptist Church, located on the south side of Chicago, IL. In this position, he shepherds a congregation of 3,000, 30 support ministries, and 14 senior pastors who are also responsible for their own congregations. Bishop Gordon has served as an advisor on the White House Faith-Based Council during the first term of President Barack Obama and with St. Jude’s Cancer Research Children’s Hospital as the Associate of the Sunday of Hope Promotions out of Memphis, TN. He is a member of the Board of Prevention Partnership, Inc. as the Faith Based Chair for HIV Awareness and Substance Abuse Prevention. Bishop Gordon is a recipient of the prestigious Paul Kelly Service Award, the Path Award twice from the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the United Theological Seminary’s President’s Award. He is currently a Regent at the Midwest Theology Seminary in Kansas. Bishop Gordon has led over 50 overseas expeditions; and serves as an Instructor for African American Clergy and Educators in Ethiopia, Egypt, Israel, Greece, Turkey, Rome and South Africa. Bishop Gordon is a professional composer of sacred music, has published many recordings, and performs worldwide. **Professor Hannah Smith** is Associate Director at the International Center for Law and Religion Studies at Brigham Young University Law School. She received her BA from Princeton University and her JD from BYU Law School (Order of the Coif), where she served as the Law Review’s Executive Editor. Smith was awarded BYU’s Alumni Achievement Award, the Women-in-Law Leadership Award, and the James Madison Award. She worked for U.S. Supreme Court Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito and as Becket Law’s Senior Counsel where she secured four landmark Supreme Court victories. During her time at Becket, she represented more than 13 major faith groups including Anglicans, Assemblies of God, Baptists, Catholics, Hindus, Hutterites, Jews, Lutherans, Mormons, Muslims, Russian Orthodox, Santeros, and Sikhs. Smith has testified before the U.S. Congress, appeared on national media, and is a sought-after speaker. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Religious Freedom Institute, the African Consortium for Law and Religion Studies, and as Board Secretary for the International Religious Freedom Summit, as well as chair on the JRCLS’s Religious Freedom Committee, and a member with her husband John on the ICLRS International Advisory Council. **Nisan Chavkin** was elected in March 2025 as President of the Board of Trustees at Beth Emet The Free Synagogue in Evanston. He and his wife Sarah have been active members there for more than three decades. Chavkin is also a founder and served as the first Chair of the Progressive Chevra Kadisha, a multi-congregation volunteer burial society in Chicago and the northern suburbs. In March 2025, Chavkin stepped down as executive director of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago which promotes cooperation, understanding, and collaboration among the faith communities of Chicago to advance the common good. Previously he worked at and led Constitutional Rights Foundation Chicago, a democracy education organization that provided resources, programs, and professional development for K-12 students and teachers in Chicago, across the United States, and internationally. He began his career with the Chicago and Northern Illinois Region of the National Conference of Christians and Jews, a human relations education and training organization that worked with students, teachers, community organizations, and faith communities. Chavkin holds a Bachelor of Arts *cum laude* from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Jewish Thought and History of the Jewish People and also studied at the University of Chicago. A native of Onondaga County, New York, he and his wife live in Evanston and have two adult daughters. Despite many disappointments, he remains a Bears fan. **S.S. Shiva Singh Khalsa,** ordained in 1976 and recognized as a leader in the interreligious community and an activist of HIV prevention and care of the aged and infirm. He is a KRI Mentoring Lead Teacher Trainer, E RYT-500, YACEP and President of Spirit Rising Foundation. Since 1971 has taught and lectured on yoga and meditation, spirituality and transformation. Active with the Parliament of the World’s Religions since 1993, and cofounder of Gurdwara Shaib of Chicago, represented Sikh Darma at scores of events including the Chicago Police Multicultural Forum post 9/11. A member of  the Gift of Hope Interfaith Council. Chairperson of the Sikh Dharma Human Rights Commission. **Asayo Koyo Horibe** is a Japanese American Buddhist who is a retired Registered Nurse, the mother of three daughters, grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of three. She practices in the American Buddhist tradition and was inducted as a Lay Minister in 2004 in the Kubose Dharma Legacy Tradition. Her journey includes being President of the Buddhist Council of the Midwest, President of the Heartland Sangha, Trustee of the Parliament of World Religions, member of the Evanston Interfaith Clergy, Secretary to the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago, member of the Asian Advisory Board to Secretary of State, Jesse White, Vice Commodore, Social Director and Fleet Captain for the Northwest Sailing Association.  **Rev. Dr. Anna Piela** serves as co-associate regional minister with the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago and as senior writer at the American Baptist Home Mission Societies. She is also associate editor of *The Christian Citizen*. An ordained minister in both the American Baptist Churches USA and the Alliance of Baptists, Dr. Piela is committed to interfaith collaboration and social justice. She is a co-founder of Challenging Islamophobia Together Chicagoland, an action network equipping faith leaders to combat anti-Muslim prejudice. Her book, co-authored with Rev. Dr. Michael Woolf and titled *Confronting Islamophobia in the Church: Liturgical Tools for Justice*, will be published by Judson Press in January 2026. **Elder Steven D. Shumway** was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the April 2024 general conference. At the time of his call, he had been serving as a member of the Eleventh Quorum of the Seventy in the North America Southwest Area. Elder Shumway has served in a number of Church callings, including full-time missionary in the Pennsylvania Philadelphia Mission, elders quorum president, Young Men president, bishop, stake president, and president of the Illinois Chicago Mission from 2019 to 2022. Professionally, Elder Shumway received a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering from Brigham Young University in 1996. He worked for Exxon Chemical Company in Houston Texas from 1996 to 1998. Since 1998 he has been president and CEO of Whiting Brothers Investment Companies. Steven married Heidi Dawn O’Brien in 1994. They are the parents of four children. **Regina Brent**, one of 16 siblings, is a native of Chicago born and raised on the south side. As a struggling teenage mother of one son, she persevered in her education while she attended DuSable High School and Loop College, better known today as Harold Washington College. She put her education on hold to provide financially for her son but later realized it was time to pursue a degree in General Studies from the College of DuPage. “If Barak O’Bama could become president of the United States the least I could do to show my appreciation was to complete my education and get a degree of some kind.” Regina describes herself as a Christian in progress, who believes in God and is willing to do his will. Regina is the founder & president of Unity Partnership, a non-profit organization dedicated to building trust and strengthening relationships among youth, law enforcement, and the community.  Their motto is*“Where Change Begins with Ordinary People.”*  She also presently serves as Co-Chair of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Advisory Committee of DuPage County. Professionally, Regina served for twelve years in departments of the City of Chicago under the leadership of four Mayors.  She then served for thirty years under the leadership of four Illinois Attorneys General, with responsibilities ranging from Advocate and Mediator in the Consumer Fraud Division, to overseeing the Veterans Advocacy and Senior & Disabled Advocacy Divisions.  Regina is active in political public service, having served as a Precinct Committeewoman in Naperville Township and as a candidate for the DuPage County Board.  She is the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, most recently the 2024 West Suburban Philanthropy Network Humanitarian of the Year Award and the 2023 Rainbow PUSH Coalition & Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Women’s Empowerment Award.  Her proudest accomplishment is being mother to her son Morris Brent and grandmother to her two beautiful grandchildren. **Cyrus Rivetna** is the founder and principal of Rivetna Architects Inc., based in Chicago’s Bridgeport Art Center. With a deep respect for the spiritual and cultural significance of sacred spaces, Cyrus has dedicated much of his architectural practice to working with religious communities across the United States and Canada. His firm has collaborated with a diverse range of faith traditions—including Catholic, Hindu, Zoroastrian, Methodist, Muslim and Missionary Baptist—to design worship spaces that are both meaningful and functional. Cyrus’s approach to religious architecture is rooted in dialogue, reverence, and contextual sensitivity. He views every project as an opportunity to reflect the values and aspirations of a faith community, while thoughtfully addressing the needs of the modern world. His work is known for blending timeless spiritual symbolism with contemporary architectural expression. Having worked alongside renowned architect BV Doshi, Cyrus brings a strong foundation in vernacular and community-centered design. This perspective has guided his work not only in sacred architecture, but also in revitalizing underserved neighborhoods throughout Chicago—always with the belief that architecture can uplift and unify. He is internationally recognized for his expertise in Zoroastrian Fire Temple architecture and has lectured widely on the subject. In 2018, he completed the design of the Bhandara Atash Kadeh in Houston—the first Zoroastrian Fire Temple of its kind built in North America. Cyrus has also contributed to shaping the built environment at the citywide and institutional levels. He served on the committee to rewrite the Chicago Building Code in 2020, the commission to revise the Architectural Technical Standards for the Chicago Department of Housing in 2025, and the Capital Development Board Design-Build Review Committee. He also served on the Board of Directors for Sacred Space International, further deepening his commitment to the intersection of faith, architecture, and community. # Keynote Speaker **& Panel Moderator** --- Dr. Justin Dyer Professor of Religion, BYU **Justin Dyer** is a professor of religion at Brigham Young University. He received a Ph.D. in human and community development from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He teaches courses on religion as well as statistics. He is a fellow with the Wheatley Institute and serves as editor-in-chief of BYU Studies, the university's premier academic journal.   His research focuses on the connection between religion, family, and human flourishing. He recently completed a study that followed a group of young people for 10 years, from ages 14 to 24, examining factors that support or hinder positive connections to religion. He focuses on identifying and supporting various ways religion may be helpful to individuals, families, and societies.   He has published over 90 academic papers, and his work has been cited in more than 3,500 academic studies, as well as The New York Times and other news outlets.   Dr. Dyer and his wife, Aislin, are the parents of six children, ages 10 to 21. They enjoy hiking and watching movies. One of his favorite movies is "Harvey" with Jimmy Stewart. # **Young Adult Panel Moderator** --- Meg Huber Interfaith America Meg Huber is the Program Manager on the Democracy Initiatives Team at Interfaith America. She graduated in May 2022 with a B.A. in Business Management from Southern Virginia University and went on to earn an MSc in Religious Studies from the University of Edinburgh in November 2024. Meg is involved with the CHI Help Initiative as a volunteer and serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for two children in the foster care system. In her free time, Meg enjoys backpacking, baking, symphonies, community events, and recently ultra running. # **Faith Leader Panelists** --- Anand Soni BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha Anand Soni is Senior Director of Transportation & Trade Compliance at ACCO Brands North America, where he leads a cross-functional organization spanning global logistics, customs and trade compliance, and AI and automation strategy. Alongside his corporate career, Anand is an active volunteer with BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, serving in public affairs and government relations for the organization's Midwest region and building relationships between the Hindu community and civic and interfaith institutions across Chicagoland. Grounded in the Hindu tradition's emphasis on selfless service, spiritual discipline, and dharma, Anand brings both a practitioner's and a community-builder's perspective to questions of purpose, generational faith transmission, and the role of daily spiritual practice in a changing world. Anand lives in the Chicago suburbs with his wife of 13 years, who works as an R&D Senior Scientist at Abbott. Mike Rolfes Executive Director of Renew Chicago and the Chicago Sunday Evening Club Park Community Church Mike Rolfes is president of Renew Chicago, a faith-based organization he has been leading since 2011, with the goal of building the goodness and greatness of the city through starting conversations, organizing volunteers, and raising funds for our partner ministries. Prior to this, he had a long career in advertising, beginning with the Leo Burnett Co. and ending with Golden Eagle Media. Mike also serves as the 13th president of Chicago Sunday Evening Club, an all volunteer organization founded in 1908 to improve the religious and moral life of Chicago. A graduate of Boston College, and recipient of a four year-certificate in Education for Ministry from the University of the South, Mike and his wife, Courtney, live in the Ravenswood Gardens neighborhood on the city’s North Side. Shaykh Umair Haseeb Founding Resident Scholar, Mozaic Chaplain, Northwestern University Shaykh Umair Haseeb is a prominent Islamic scholar, community leader, and the Founding Resident Scholar of Mozaic, a Chicago-based community organization dedicated to grounding modern Muslim life in traditional sacred knowledge. A native of Chicagoland, his work bridges traditional Islamic scholarship from North Africa with contemporary community needs in the West. Pam Caine The Church of JesusChrist of Latter-Day Saints Pam Caine has over 20 years of experience working with families as a therapist, social worker, educator, advocate, and mentor. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she has served in various leadership roles supporting children and adolescents as well as women as a leader in Relief Society, the women’s organization for her congregation. Pam and her husband, Steve, who share a love for skiing, biking and hiking, have been married for 30 years and have four young adult children. They enjoy their empty nest and currently serve as Diplomatic Liaisons for their church to more than 60 countries represented in the Chicago area. Bishop Byron T. Brazier Pastor Apostolic Church of God Dr. Byron T. Brazier was born and raised on Chicago’s south side, being the second child of four children and the only son of Bishop Arthur M. Brazier and Isabella Brazier. He was educated in the Chicago Public Schools, attended and graduated from Doolittle Elementary School and Wendell Phillips High School. He received his bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University, a master’s degree in theological studies, and a doctorate of ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary. In 1972, Dr. Brazier started his professional career as a production supervisor at Johnson & Johnson. In 1973, he joined the data processing division of IBM Corporation as a salesman. He later became a marketing instructor in Dallas, Texas and was promoted to several positions at IBM, reaching top-level management as a business unit executive over the public sector. During his tenure at IBM, he regularly received national recognition for his outstanding service and leadership. In 1991 Dr. Brazier transitioned from IBM and founded Brazier and Associates. His entrepreneurial acumen led to his appointment as Chief Information Officer for the Chicago Housing Authority. He remained in this role until 1995 - the year he became the general administrator of the Apostolic Church of God. Dr. Brazier served as general administrator from 1995 thru 2008. In this role, he systematically developed a fool-proof business model, making the Apostolic Church of God a well-run organization, housing over 20,000 members. ***Ministry*** In 2008, Pastor Arthur M. Brazier announced his retirement; the Apostolic Church of God’s Official Board, through unanimous vote, elected Dr. Byron T. Brazier to fill the vacancy. Pastor Arthur M. Brazier officially passed the torch to Dr. Byron T. Brazier on June 5, 2008. Dr. Brazier humbly accepted his new role and readily assumed this awesome responsibility. His primary motivation was for the congregation to grow in the grace they have received from God, to build their spiritual identity, character, and vision, and to enjoy being a part of the body of Christ. On April 24, 2026, Dr. Byron T. Brazier was elevated to Bishop. ***Community Outreach*** As a committed advocate for the community, Dr. Brazier has consistently ensured that the church serves as both a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change. Through the establishment of the Bishop Arthur M. Brazier Foundation, he has secured support from leading philanthropic organizations to advance initiatives in education, public safety, and economic development throughout the Woodlawn community. In 2010, he introduced the Network of Woodlawn, creating a unifying vision to guide comprehensive community revitalization efforts. Building on this vision, in 2014 he launched a social enterprise manufacturing company focused on workforce development, equipping residents with skills in robotics and advanced manufacturing. Revenue generated through this enterprise is strategically reinvested to further strengthen the community. Dr. Brazier serves as Chairman of the Board for the Network of Woodlawn and its affiliated entities, including the Bishop Arthur M. Brazier Foundation and BSD Industries L3C. His leadership extends across numerous civic and nonprofit boards, including the Cook County Sheriff’s Merit Board, the Olive Branch Mission, the South Side YMCA, and the Museum of Science and Industry. In February 2026, he was elected President of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago, further affirming his influence and commitment to faith-based and civic leadership across the region. Rabbi Ari Hart Senior Rabbi Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Rabbi Ari Hart is the Senior Rabbi of Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob, a thriving Modern Orthodox congregation in Skokie, Illinois. He is also the founder of Solu, which builds bridges between Chicago’s Orthodox community and its diverse neighbors through service. Through Solu, Rabbi Hart has helped erase over $2 million in medical debt for Chicagoans in poverty, launched Hersh's Fridge, the nation's first kosher community fridge open 24 hours a day to anyone in need, and strengthened refugee communities across Chicago. Rabbi Hart also serves as Fire Chaplain to the Skokie and Evanston Fire Departments. Rabbi Hart previously served as Associate Rabbi at the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale and as Director of Admissions at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, where he received his ordination. Published widely on Jewish values and teachings, he connects the wisdom of the Jewish tradition to some of the most challenging issues of the current day. Rabbi Hart studied at Yeshivat HaKotel and the Pardes Kollel and holds a degree in music theory and composition from Grinnell College. Together with his wife, Becca, and his children, Ari is blessed to live back in his hometown of Evanston, Illinois. # **Young Adult Panelists** --- Olivia Ahlberg Archdiocese of Chicago John Paul II Newman Center at UIC Olivia Ahlberg is a lifelong Catholic and currently serves as the Director of Marketing and Communications and the Director of OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) at the St. John Paul II Newman Center at UIC. Olivia served as a campus missionary and team director with FOCUS, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students, for five years, where she accompanied college students in exploring their faith and seeking to live out their beliefs in everyday life through Bible studies and small-group discipleship. In 2021, Olivia received a bachelors of marketing, Business Administration, from the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business. Through her work and ministry, she is passionate about fostering spaces where people meet God and where beauty meets strategy. Alan Bukingolts AJC ACCESS Chicago, American Jewish Committee Alan Bukingolts was born in Niles and attended Solomon Schechter, Chicagoland Jewish High School, and Bradley University where he got a degree in Public Relations and Marketing. His summers were spent at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin both as a camper and staff member. With a background in sports marketing, today Alan is an account executive at Fox Television working in advertising and serves as the Vice President of Access for AJC Chicago. In his volunteer role at AJC, Alan participates in bridge-building events with Consul's General, Diplomats, Government Officials, Interfaith and Cross Cultural Leaders, as well members of the Jewish Community. When he's not working, you can find Alan volunteering, playing basketball, enjoying the outdoors, going to concerts or spending time with family in Israel where his brother, sister in law, and five nieces and nephews reside. Ketan Vaghani Founder Mandala Mindset Ketan Vaghani is the founder and principal coach of Mandala Mindset, a leadership coaching practice supporting executives from South Asian diaspora communities. His career spans human-centered design, strategic innovation, and brand marketing at Fortune 500 companies, including his role as a Strategic Innovation Executive at Salesforce. An ICF-credentialed coach, Ketan has been a guest lecturer on innovation and design at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where he also sits on the Alumni Board. He also curates and facilitates the Leadership Masala Lab series for SAMI (South Asians in Marketing and Insights). Ketan is an active member of the BAPS Youth activities, where his Hindu faith and service inform his approach to leadership and community. Brittany Applegate Minister Ruach Covenant Church Brittany Applegate is an emerging minister at Ruach Covenant Church, a non-denominational church on the West Side of Chicago. She has a heart for helping people know God deeply and live out their faith in everyday life. Through biblical teaching, prayer, and encouragement, she invites others to grow in their understanding of God’s character and their dependence on Him. She also writes *Called (Here)*, where she shares reflections on faith, purpose, and answering God’s call. At the heart of her ministry is a desire to point people to Jesus and encourage them to faithfully serve wherever God has placed them. Leyla Begum Ozbey Mosaic Chicago Board Member and Niagara Foundation Youth Dialogue Representative Leyla is a current university student majoring in Criminology, Law, and Justice at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She will be joining Law School the upcoming year for her graduate degree. Leyla has volunteered in many leadership organizations that improved her expertise in the areas of interfaith relations, public policy, political science, and business/marketing. With the Niagara Foundation, she has been a part of different dialogue groups where interfaith visits with other religious institutions happen to foster a respectful understanding and learning with other beliefs. She is a part of MOSAIC Chicago, which puts the youth in her community into action by planning interfaith trips, Friendsgiving and charity events, and fundraising activities to help support communities in other countries. Leyla also loves to paint, water marble, and sew! # Emcee --- Matia Marcucci JustServe Specialist Matia Marcucci leads the Chicago area’s JustServe.org program, a digital platform that helps connect community members looking for service opportunities with organizations seeking volunteers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in math from Brigham Young University and taught junior high and high school math in Utah before heading to Chicago with her husband, Jared. They’ve called the Chicago area home for the past 28 years — long enough to raise two daughters while launching a few businesses and serving as a volunteer and leader for her church, at her children’s schools, and within her community. She is especially passionate about creating meaningful service opportunities for youth and encouraging the next generation to get involved in their communities. # Musician --- Van Gilmer Bahá’í Music Director Van Gilmer is a native of Greensboro, N.C., and graduated from NC Agricultural & Technical State University with a bachelor’s of science in Architectural Engineering. He was among the first people to be involved in the sit-ins at the Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro in the early 1960s. That movement spread throughout the nation resulting in the opening of establishments throughout the country. This began a lifelong involvement in working for equal justice for all people. He worked 37 years as an Architect for the U.S. Navy, where he also served some years as Equal Employment Opportunity Officer. He was presented with the Civilian Meritorious Award and Medal by the Navy for his outstanding service and retired from federal service in 2004. Van is a renowned soloist, composer, and director. For the past 20 years, he has been Music Director at the Bahá’í House of Worship for the North American Continent in Wilmette, Illinois. He has toured throughout Europe, the U.S., and the Caribbean and has appeared three times at Carnegie Hall. In 2011, he took a Baha’i Gospel Choir to sing for the 50th Anniversary of the Baha’i Faith in Ethiopia. Under Van’s direction, in 2015, the choir marked the first appearance of a Baha’i Choir in The Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City, Utah, for the International Conference of the Parliament of the World’s Religions. Van has been a Bahá’í for over 50 years and has served on a variety of Bahá’í administrative and appointed bodies, including the National Race Unity and National Persian/American Affairs Committees. # Prayers --- Roshan Rivetna Roshan Rivetna (along with husband Rohinton Rivetna, founding president of FEZANA – Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America) is deeply committed to perpetuating the Zoroastrian religion, customs and traditions in North America and has been very active in Interfaith programs. Roshan finished a career in nuclear physics at Argonne National Laboratory and AT&T Bell Labs in 2000 and since her retirement devotes her attention to promoting Zoroastrian culinary traditions \[[www.ParsiCuisine.com/ParsiMithaiShop](http://www.parsicuisine.com/ParsiMithaiShop)\]. Her efforts at bringing Zoroastrian singles together were featured in "Matters of Heart and Faith Guide a Zoroastrian Matchmaker" in the Valentine's Day issue of the New York Times on Feb. 7, 2009. Corbin Coombs Corbin Coombs serves as the Communications Director for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Northern Illinois and the Chicago area. He and his wife, Margo, have called the Chicago area home since 1996, and they raised their four children there. Corbin has served in a variety of leadership roles within the Church, including Bishop, Stake President, and Area Seventy. During his five years as an Area Seventy, he worked with congregations and leaders across Northern Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and portions of South Dakota and Montana. He particularly values opportunities to foster understanding, friendship, and service among people of different faiths, and he considers his associations with interfaith leaders to be among the most meaningful experiences of his ministry. Susan M. Pudelek Susan M. Pudelek has been at the heart of many local and international efforts for reconciliation, understanding and peace. She was appointed by the USCCB Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs as one of the delegates to the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue’s International Buddhist-Catholic dialogue, the Castel Gandolfo Encounter. She is a continuing member of the Catholic-Buddhist Dialogue in Chicago. She has had long engagement with the Parliament of the World’s Religions, serving as staff program associate for the 2004 Parliament in Barcelona, and was a Parliament Ambassador for ten years. Susan served as director of pilgrimage ministry at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii in Chicago’s West Loop, and was active in programing with the Midwest Buddhist Temple, Buddhist Temple of Chicago, Lakeside Sangha and the Shambhala Center. Susan has presented papers at the 2018 Parliament of the World’s Religions in Toronto, at the 2015 Parliament in Salt Lake City and at the Castel Gandolfo Encounter. She holds a Master of Divinity degree from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in Theatre from Loyola University Chicago. # Register Complete the form below to reserve your place   © 2026 All rights reserved.