A friendship that lights the way

Exactly 10 years ago, 12 of us, four Jews, four Christians and four Muslims, men and women, went on a pilgrimage, led by a rabbi, a Catholic priest and an Imam.

We travelled to Jerusalem, a city named after peace but which has seen so much war. We also visited Bethlehem, where, we are told, the angels sang of peace, but which has seen so much conflict.

The pilgrimage was brilliant and pioneering. We visited each other’s sacred sites, studied each other’s sacred texts, shared meals and discussed many issues, learning to appreciate the truth and goodness that lay in each of us.

In fact, our growing friendship enabled us to confront the sombre moments in the history of our traditions, both in the past and in the present moment of which we are keenly aware.

Back in Melbourne, we gave a great number of talks about our trip in different venues and even on national radio. As a result, others were inspired to organise their own “Joint Journey to Jerusalem”. Many of us have been further involved in interfaith activities in Australia and overseas. Our journey to the Holy Lands has had a ripple effect.

Our friendship has continued, and we still meet three or four times each year, either in person or online, occasionally sharing meals together while always carefully observing the dietary requirements of our traditions. We have even been invited to be present at religious ceremonies in each other’s houses.

We are enthused by our different views; we learn to agree or else gently agree to disagree. Even in these troubled times we still enjoy each other’s company.

Though we are shocked and dismayed at what is happening, we do not blame each other for what is beyond our control. We share each other’s fears and sorrows, and respect the angers.

We weep for each other and become ever more sensitive to the sorrows of our fellow human beings.