t a time when many people were uncertain how to respond to the tragic events of September 11, Young Friends from the Asheville (NC) Friends Meeting joined 60 teens from 11 different faith groups for an interfaith teen retreat. The retreat was planned and facilitated by teens with loving support from some dedicated adult leaders from a variety of faith communities. Many teens came to the retreat knowing only a few people and little about the other religions. They left with new friends and a much broader understanding of their neighbor's religions.

The weekend began with introductions and games to help everyone get to know each other. The large group was broken down into small "Family Groups" of roughly ten people each from a different faith tradition. These groups met four times through out the weekend, participating in a mix of activities designed to deepen their relationships and knowledge of the various faith groups.

Scattered through out the weekend were presentations by the faith groups represented. Each youth group took ten minutes to tell about their own faith group. One of the favorites was by the Jewish group who wrote their own rap song and ended by passing around a loaf of challah bread.

Throughout the weekend a large piece of heavy canvas was laid out with paints and other supplies. The teens created a beautiful mural that portrayed the rich diversity present at the retreat. The mural is hung on a light weight frame and is traveling to each of the faith communities represented at the retreat.

A teen retreat wouldn't be complete without lots of fun. There was a talent show, dance and a camp-fire. Everyone left the dance and processed to the campfire in silence holding candles and focusing on a world with no religious violence. The night ended with songs from the various traditions around the campfire.

Plans are underway for another interfaith teen retreat in 2003. There will be even greater participation next time-probably 18 faith groups including the local Islamic center. The teens have shown us that dialogue and fellowship can break down the walls of distrust and hatred between faith communities. When will the adults follow their lead?

FGConnections Winter 2002 Home