LYNC RADIO

LYNC interviews our Trauma Healing Project Manager in Ukraine, Faith-Based Peacemaking from Doha, and Rethinking Diversity with Dr. Dennis Hoover

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Show Notes – LYNC RADIO: Healing Trauma, Building Peace, and Embracing Diversity

🎙️ Episode Summary:

In this episode of LYNC RADIO, host Jessica Eturralde explores three powerful stories of faith in action:

✅ Trauma healing in Ukraine – equipping Sunday school teachers to support children affected by war.

✅ A call for peace from Doha – Dr. Janna Scott on the role of faith in peacemaking at the Doha Interfaith Conference.

✅ Dealing with diversity differently – Dr. Dennis Hoover’s insights on Covenantal Pluralism at Gordon College’s Franz Lecture Series.

🔹 Segment 1: Trauma Healing in Ukraine

LYNC’s Trauma Healing Program is making a difference for Ukrainian children and families affected by war.
Project Manager Oksana Vlasnova traveled from Germany to launch LYNC’s first trauma-care training for Sunday school teachers.
Led by licensed therapists, the program provides psychological support and will culminate in official "Children and War" certificates this September.
Educators are learning new methods to help children process trauma—ensuring long-term healing beyond the classroom.

🔹 Segment 2: A Call for Peace from Doha

The Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue Conference explored the role of religions in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. The second annual Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue conference took place last month in Doha, Qatar.

On February 18-20 the event, titled "From Religious Freedom to Religious Responsibility: Peacemaking in a Destabilized World," was held under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani and in collaboration with the Multi-Faith Neighbors Network (MFNN).

Dr. Janna Scott, CEO of the American Center for Religious Freedom, spoke on faith’s role in leadership and reconciliation.
She laid out eight core principles for sustainable peace and emphasized cross-religious collaboration as key to stability.
Dr. Scott urged government leaders, grassroots communities, and faith leaders to legislate, practice, and preach peace.

🔹 Segment 3: Dealing with Diversity Differently

At Gordon College’s Franz Lecture Series, Dr. Dennis Hoover introduced the concept of Covenantal Pluralism.

The Franz Lecture Series run by the Center for Faith & Inquiry, at Gordon College, was established in 1992 and named after historian David Franz. The annual lecture features a keynote speaker and this year, LYNC Senior Fellow Dr. Dennis Hoover, who is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Global Engagement delivered this year’s special lesson on March 4th.

His talk, "Dealing with Diversity Differently: A Case for Covenantal Pluralism," tackled an increasingly pressing global challenge: navigating deep religious diversity.

Dr. Hoover introduced covenantal pluralism—which emphasizes religious freedom, cross-cultural religious literacy, and character virtues like humility and reciprocity as essential to fostering mutual respect and cooperation.

This engagement model promotes religious freedom, character development, and cross-cultural religious literacy.
Dr. Hoover explained why “covenantal” is crucial—it represents a lasting commitment to cooperation across differences.
Using global data, he showed that successful pluralism is possible, citing Senegal, Albania, and Gambia as examples.
His key message: Loving one’s neighbor, even across deep theological divides, strengthens social cohesion and religious freedom.

📢 Links & Resources:

🔗 Watch Dr. Dennis Hoover’s full lecture on Gordon College’s YouTube channel.

🔗 Read Dr. Janna Scott’s blog on faith & peacemaking: https://lyncommunity.org/blog/the-spiritual-call-to-action-faith-leadership-and-the-pursuit-of-peace/

💡 Final Thought:

Faith should not just inspire—it should move us toward action. Join LYNC in building bridges, fostering peace, and healing communities.

🎧 Enjoying LYNC RADIO?

🔹 Like, subscribe, and share this episode!

🔹 Follow us for more updates on faith, social cohesion, and multi-faith engagement.

#LYNCRadio #TraumaHealing #CovenantalPluralism #ReligiousFreedom #FaithAndPeace #LoveYourNeighbor

An Uzbek Church Celebrates its Registry, LYNC's Ambitions for 2025, Insights from Nadine Maenza, and LYNC Heads to Washington D.C.

Love Your Neighbor Community — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:00:00 -0400

A Christian church receives its registry in Uzbekistan, we highlight the latest LYNC developments and plans for 2025, note on a few takeaways from our latest interview with IRF Secretariat president Nadine Maenza, and finally, we reflect on the Religious Freedom Week in Washington D.C.

Links:

Article on Uzbek church registry: https://uzchurches.uz/news/v-dzhizake-otkrylas-tserkov-khristian-polnogo-evangeliya/

LYNC Article: Exploring New Pathways: Cultivating a Shared Religious Landscape in Central Asia - https://lyncommunity.org/news-article/exploring-new-pathways-cultivating-a-shared-religious-landscape-in-central-asia/

WATCH LYNC INTERVIEW: The Intersection of Advocacy and Relationship-Building in Religious Freedom Efforts - Nadine Maenza - https://youtu.be/ioujWtuSFtM?si=_uiAUwOOk7S8q09T

IRFsecretariat.org
IRFroundtable.org
IRFsummit.org

Healing in the Midst of Ukraine's War, Rebuilding Faith in Uzbekistan, and Advanced Religious Literacy Training in Kazakhstan

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Show Notes for LYNC RADIO Episode 13

Title: Healing in the Midst of Ukraine's War, Rebuilding Faith in Uzbekistan, and Advanced Religious Literacy Training in Kazakhstan

Host: Jessica Eturralde

Duration: 22 minutes

[00:00] Opening Segment

Introduction to today’s topics: trauma therapy in Ukraine, rebuilding efforts in Uzbekistan, and groundbreaking training in Kazakhstan.
Quick promo for the LYNC Interview video program.
Related Link: LYNC INTERVIEW on YouTube > https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNjAjrFqPorH1gd1iYJkRdOXHOkgTYiOD

[02:18] Healing in the Midst of War: Trauma Therapy in Ukraine

Overview of the Caring for Ukraine's Children through Trauma Healing, Hope, and Critical Care initiative.
Key Metrics:
449 children and 81 adults reached across Ukraine and Germany.
39 group sessions conducted by 21 therapy teams in 16 cities.
Stories of resilience:
Matviy in Lviv overcame isolation to discover hope.
Maksym in Zhmerinka found peace using “Safe Place” techniques.
Sofia in Borodianka processed her trauma through art therapy.
Recognition of Ukrainian partners, Krasy Maibutne, and their critical role.
Read Full Report: https://lyncommunity.org/report/caring-for-ukraines-children-through-trauma-healing-hope-and-critical-care/

[09:22] Rebuilding Faith in Uzbekistan

Spotlight on the Baptist community in Bukhara and their ongoing struggle to rebuild their church.
Challenges faced:
Legal and administrative barriers.
Current alternative worship space requires significant renovations.
Call to action:
Goal: Raise $50,000 for renovations.
Donate Now: https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch

[14:00] Advanced Religious Literacy Training in Kazakhstan

Recap of the Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy Training held in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Highlights:
Participation of 15 provincial heads of religious affairs.
Hosted in collaboration with Caspian University and Straus Center for Dispute Resolution.
Interactive sessions led by Dr. Chris Seiple, Dr. Attila Miklovits, and Dr. Sukhsimranjit Singh.
Key moments:
Roundtable discussions with Kazakhstani religious leaders representing Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity.
Government officials’ heartfelt toasts reflecting on their learnings.
Closing remarks from LYNC CEO Wade Kusack on the transformative nature of the program.
Related Link: More on Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy: https://lyncommunity.org/our-work/

[21:00] Final Reflections and Closing Remarks

Gratitude to the global LYNC community for their support throughout 2024.
Teaser for the upcoming report on Kazakhstan's multi-faith engagement efforts.
End with a moving excerpt of a Ukrainian Christmas carol

Key Links from the Episode

Full Ukraine Trauma Therapy Report: Read Here: https://lyncommunity.org/report/caring-for-ukraines-children-through-trauma-healing-hope-and-critical-care/
Support Bukhara Church Rebuilding: Donate Now: https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch
Watch LYNC INTERVIEW: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNjAjrFqPorH1gd1iYJkRdOXHOkgTYiOD

Stay Connected:

Building Peace in Prague, Kazakhstan Travels West, and Businesses as Agents of Religious Pluralism

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0400

LYNC RADIO SHOW NOTES

Episode Title: Multi-Faith Developments in Prague, Kazakhstan’s Progress, and Businesses as Agents of Peace

Host: Jessica Eturralde

Segment Breakdown with Time Stamps

[00:00] - Introduction

Host Jessica Eturralde previews the episode, highlighting key topics:
Multi-faith developments in Prague.
Kazakhstan’s growing interreligious engagement.
A feature interview with Dr. Eva Witesman on how businesses contribute to communities beyond financial support.

[02:10] - Prague Multi-Faith Conference Recap

Coverage of the multi-faith conference held in Prague in partnership with Czech Ambassador Robert Rehak, LYNC, IRF Secretariat, and Templeton Religion Trust.

Notable details include:

Program themes: peacebuilding, countering Islamophobia, and radical ideologies.
Event highlights and key messages, such as fostering tolerance and promoting action.

[05:32] - Notable Speakers at the Prague Conference

Highlights from key speakers:
Mohamed Mosaad Abdelaziz Mohamed: Importance of dialogue, trust-building post-conflict, and engagement with radical perspectives.
Hana Bendkowsky: Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) as a call for justice and compassion.
Sheikh Al Mahfoudh Bin Bayyah: The role of the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi as an educational multi-faith space.

[13:08] - Greg Mitchell and Ambassador Rehak’s Reflections

IRF CEO Greg Mitchell: Call for multi-faith collaboration, practical takeaways, and future plans to launch regional centers.
Ambassador Robert Rehak: Appeal to attendees to foster dialogue and combat hatred beyond the event.

[17:57] - Kazakhstan’s Delegation and Multi-Faith Efforts

Coverage of Kazakhstan’s delegation to Prague and its growing role in promoting interreligious dialogue.
Details from discussions with Vice Minister Kanat Iskakov and other officials:
Emphasis on religious freedom, addressing hate speech, and exploring AI solutions.
Upcoming initiatives such as the cross-cultural religious literacy program at Caspian University.
Quotes from Kazakhstan’s Vice Minister of Culture and Information Kanat Iskakov on the country’s progress and LYNC CEO Wade Kusack on the broader impact of LYNC’s work in Central Asia.

[21:52] - Extended Interview: Dr. Eva Witesman

Highlights from the conversation with Dr. Eva Witesman, professor at BYU’s Marriott School of Business:
Corporations as public social spaces influencing religious freedom and social cohesion.
The role of businesses in peacebuilding and addressing community challenges beyond philanthropy.
Call for collaboration between civil society, governments, and businesses to foster sustainable development.
Quote: “It’s not just about profit; businesses are key players in shaping public values and building peace.”
WATCH THE EPISODE : https://youtu.be/ego-uOulSgg

[28:45] - Episode Wrap-Up

Host Jessica Eturralde recaps the episode and encourages listeners to:
Subscribe, like, and share the program.
Tune in for the next episode, which will feature a detailed segment on Kazakhstan’s first ever Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy Program.

Episode Links

Watch the full interview with Dr. Eva Witesman on the LYNC YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/ego-uOulSgg
View keynotes/panels from the Prague event > Intercultural and Interfaith Dialogue: Freedom of Religion or Belief to Build Peace: https://www.youtube.com/live/37BfCKcYznA?si=aOhbLGZ9xeeH5Zy9

Call to Action

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who would benefit from this content. Together, we can foster more cohesive and inclusive societies.

Host: Jessica Eturralde

Produced by: Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC)

Runtime: ~30 minutes

LYNC RADIO: Responsible Religious Freedom, Another MultiFaith Milestone + Faith, Empathy, Politics

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0400

[00:00] Introduction:

Jessica previews today’s topics: insights from LYNC INTERVIEW with Dr. Dennis Hoover, highlights from a multi-faith retreat in Uzbekistan, and a recap of a Miami event exploring faith and politics.

[02:27] The Grand Bargain with Dr. Dennis Hoover:

Discussion on balancing religious freedom and responsibility, drawing on Mennonite and Amish communities as examples.
Key takeaway: Religious freedom thrives when both governments and faith groups uphold mutual respect and social responsibility.

Watch the full LYNC INTERVIEW with Dr. Dennis Hoover: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQ9XNfV88uQ

[08:16] Multi-Faith Retreat in Uzbekistan:

Updates on the results of LYNC and MFNN's Train-the-Trainers program and its success in Central Asia.
Local leaders Imam Shovkat Khamdumov and Pastor Oleg Vorojtsov lead a historic retreat aimed at fostering pluralistic virtues and cooperation.
Micah Fries of Multi-Faith Neighbors Network shares insights on the importance of contextual ownership by local leaders.

[13:02] Faith and Politics in Miami:

Recap of “The Trinity and Our Political Environment,” a discussion led by Carter Brown on balancing faith, political engagement, and empathy.
Key takeaway: Participants explored seeing the humanity behind divisive political stances and emphasized respect and dignity in dialogue---using a divisive bill on the Florida ballot as an example to discuss.

[18:12] Call to Action:

Jessica encourages listeners to support LYNC’s work by liking, subscribing, and sharing the program.
Visit lyncommunity.org to learn more and give to initiatives like the Bukhara Church rebuild.

Support the Bukhara Church Rebuild: https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch

LYNC RADIO: Multifaith Dialogue in Kazakhstan, Progress in Uzbekistan, and Dr. Maksym Vasin’s Vision for Religious Freedom

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:00:00 -0400

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction to LYNC RADIO
Host Jessica Eturralde introduces today’s topics: fostering multifaith dialogue in Kazakhstan, observing democratic practices in Uzbekistan, and a spotlight on Dr. Maksym Vasin’s innovative approach to religious freedom.

[01:29] Empowering Multifaith Dialogue in Kazakhstan

We begin in Almaty, Kazakhstan, where LYNC’s Training the Trainers program has enabled local leaders to lead multifaith dialogue in their communities. This recent gathering, led by Kazakhstani pastors and imams trained with LYNC, addressed complex social issues such as domestic violence, highlighting how faith communities can actively promote societal responsibility and support those in need.

[08:45] Observing Progress in Uzbekistan

Next, we travel to Uzbekistan, where LYNC Founder Wade Kusack recently observed the national elections. Wade shares valuable insights on Uzbekistan’s progress toward and religious freedom, with an encouraging view of the increased opportunities now available to the people of Uzbekistan.

[13:26] A Spotlight on Dr. Maksym Vasin’s Blog

We shift focus to LYNC’s Senior Researcher, Dr. Maksym Vasin, and his latest blog. Dr. Vasin discusses innovative strategies for advancing religious freedom beyond documentation, emphasizing the importance of education, collaboration, and cross-cultural religious literacy to create sustainable change.

Key Moments:

[02:30] First Local-Leader-Led Retreat in Almaty, Kazakhstan: How local religious leaders, trained by LYNC, are promoting social cohesion through multifaith gatherings.
[09:00] Election Observations in Bukhara: Wade Kusack’s reflections on observing the Uzbek elections and evolving freedoms in Uzbekistan.
[13:30] Dr. Maksym Vasin’s Vision for Change: LYNC’s unique approach to building positive indexes and fostering covenantal pluralism as a pathway to enduring religious freedom.

Tune in to hear these inspiring stories, as LYNC continues to support multifaith dialogue and social cohesion across Central Asia!

Read Dr. Vasin's blog: https://lyncommunity.org/blog/shifting-to-the-building-of-religious-freedom-in-central-asia-lyncs-experience/

👉 For more information, visit lyncommunity.org

LYNC RADIO SPECIAL: Berlin Civil Society Program Part 2

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0400

LYNC Radio: Berlin Civil Society Program Recap - Show Notes

Episode Title: Voices of Resilience: Insights from the Berlin Civil Society Program - Part 2

Host: Jessica Eturralde

Episode Summary:

In this special episode, Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC) revisits the Berlin Civil Society Program, co-convened with the IRF Secretariat and Templeton Religion Trust. This second part delves into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) panel, addressing religious freedom, resilience, and societal rebuilding. Key insights also emerge from the IRF Secretariat's new councils focused on corporate engagement and media. This version has an optional ending that includes extra footage from attendees and feedback for the event.

Key Segments & Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction and Recap
Jessica reflects on the impact of Part 1, which covered the IRF Secretariat's new Academic Council, remarks from the Berlin program’s opening session, and the Eurasian panel.
[03:30] Focus on the MENA Region Panel
Moderated by Suzanne Grisham of MercuryOne, this panel reveals the scars left by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, highlighting local leaders' resilience. Mayor Issam Bhnam Matti of Qaraqosh, Iraq, shares the challenges of rebuilding and the crucial role of community resilience.
[12:00] Insights from Dr. Mirza Dinnayi
Dinnayi, founder of the House of Coexistence in Sinjar, Iraq, discusses rehabilitation efforts for Yazidi youth and the need for self-administered zones to enhance minority security. He stresses the urgency of international support for marginalized groups.
[20:15] Education for Peace with Brikene Krasniqi
Krasniqi of Hardwired Global emphasizes how educational initiatives in Iraq’s Nineveh Plains are transforming schools and promoting peace among youth. She discusses the success of these programs and calls for expanded global support.
[29:30] Update from Nazira Goriya
Although initially absent due to travel issues, Rima, who later accompanied Goriya--also from the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria-- gives a message for our listeners from her perspective on local governance and the benefits of autonomy for minority security.
[35:10] Corporate and Media Councils: Expanding Influence
Corporate Council: Eva Witesman of Marriott School of Business explains that companies have a lot to offer in fostering stability and resilience through religious freedom
Media Council: Rachel Miner of Bellwether International highlights the importance of accurate media representation in addressing human rights and preventing genocide.
[47:00] Interactive Panel: “What Needs to Be Done”
Rev. Mae Cannon, Dr, Jocelyn Cesari, Dr. Elizabeth Podromou, and Dr. Dennis Hoover lead an open forum exploring actionable strategies. Highlights include cultural heritage preservation, interdisciplinary scholarship, and positive data-driven outcomes for religious freedom.

Call to Action:

Love Your Neighbor Community aims to support religious freedom and cross-faith dialogue through radio and video programming. Follow us on social media to stay updated on our work, and help expand the conversation by sharing this episode!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | lyncommunity.org

Hashtags:

#ReligiousFreedom #SocialCohesion #BerlinCivilSocietyProgram #LYNCRadio

LYNC RADIO SPECIAL: Berlin Civil Society Program Part 1

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 17:30:00 -0400

Just want to hear one section? Click on the player to select Chapters.

Show Notes: Special Edition of LYNC RADIO: The Berlin Civil Society Program (Part 1)

Welcome to a special edition of LYNC Radio, where we explore the Berlin Civil Society Program, co-convened by Love Your Neighbor Community in partnership with the IRF Secretariat and Templeton Religion Trust. This episode covers insights from the opening sessions, including the launch of the new Academic Council and highlights from the Eurasian panel.

Episode Overview:

1. Berlin Civil Society Program:

Held at the iconic Adlon Kempinski Hotel, the program brought together global leaders to discuss pressing issues related to religious freedom, social cohesion, and resilience.
The event was convened by the IRF Secretariat, Templeton Religion Trust, and Love Your Neighbor Community.

2. Launch of the IRF Secretariat's Global Academic Council:

Co-chaired by Rev. Mae Cannon and Jocelyne Cesari, the council seeks to critically examine terms like violence, security, and extremism in the context of religious freedom.
Jocelyne Cesari stressed that violence can be structural, embedded in political and social institutions, often leading to violations of religious freedom.
Contributions from Dr. Pavol Bargár and Dr. Dennis Hoover emphasized the complexity of structural violence and the need for a more nuanced understanding of extremism and religious privilege.

3. Eurasian Panel Highlights:

Moderated by Wade Kusack, this panel featured key voices from Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Moldova, focusing on multi-faith dialogue and collaboration.
Speakers from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia and Moldova discussed national efforts to promote tolerance, human rights, and religious freedom in their countries.

4. Key Contributions:

Dr. Karima Almazroui shared her experience developing a curriculum in the UAE, which promotes tolerance and civic responsibility among over 600,000 students annually.
Elizabeth Prodromou from Boston College highlighted the link between religious freedom and cultural heritage preservation, using Northern Cyprus as an example.
Ambassador Robert Řehák discussed the impact of religion on political agendas, particularly in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
Ghanaian MP Godfred Seidu Jasaw emphasized the role of parliamentarians in safeguarding religious freedom and civil liberties.

5. The Role of Religious Leaders:

Religious leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Moldova shared stories of multi-faith cooperation and friendship, reinforcing the importance of relationships in addressing global challenges and promoting social cohesion.

Key Links:

Learn more about Love Your Neighbor Community: LYN Community
WATCH LYNC INTERVIEW + LYNC TALK on YouTube!
Follow LYNC on social media:
Facebook: Love Your Neighbor Community
Twitter: @LYN_Community
Instagram: @loveyourneighborcommunity

Featured Speakers:

Reverend Mae Cannon and Jocelyne Cesari, co-chairs of the Global Academic Council.
Dr. Pavol Bargár, Dr. Dennis Hoover, and Dr. Karima Almazroui.
Ambassador Robert Řehák, Chair of the Article 18 Alliance.
Fernanda San Martín Carrasco, Director of the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPP Forum).
Imams Bejigit Qoshiev, Nazirkhan Tashkhodjaev, and Shovkat Khamdamov, and Pastors Arman Arenbayev and Oleg Vorojtsov representing Central Asian religious communities.

Get Involved:

Like and subscribe to LYNC Radio, and help spread the word by sharing this episode with your network.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover the MENA region, IRF's Media and Corporate Councils and insights from additional speakers.

Thank you for listening! Together, we can build stronger, more resilient communities through open dialogue and the protection of religious freedoms.

Speakers Mentioned in Today’s Program:

Jocelyne Cesari

Affiliation: Co-Chair of IRF Secretariat’s Global Academic Council, Professor of Religion and Politics at the University of Birmingham, Research Associate at Harvard's Center for European Studies.
Specialty: Global expert on religion and international politics, particularly Islam and secularism.
Notable Works: We God's People: Christianity, Islam and Hinduism in the World of Nations.

Rev. Mae Cannon

Affiliation: Co-Chair of IRF Secretariat’s Global Academic Council, Executive Director of Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP).
Specialty: Advocate for social justice and religious freedom in the Middle East.
Notable Works: Social Justice Handbook: Small Steps for a Better World.

Greg Mitchell

Affiliation: Co-Chair of the IRF Roundtable.
Specialty: International religious freedom advocacy and policy engagement.
Notable Work: Organizes global roundtable discussions on religious freedom.

Chris Stewart

Affiliation: Chair of the Transatlantic Religious Freedom Taskforce (TRT).
Specialty: Transatlantic religious diplomacy and religious freedom advocacy.

Nadine Maenza

Affiliation: Co-Chair of the IRF Roundtable, President of the International Religious Freedom Secretariat, former Chair of USCIRF.
Specialty: Advocacy for religious minorities in regions like the Middle East and South Asia.

Wade Kusack

Affiliation: CEO of Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC).
Specialty: Advocate for religious dialogue, particularly in post-Soviet states and Central Asia.

Ambassador Robert Řehák

Affiliation: Ambassador, Chair of the International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance (IRFBA), Czech Republic.
Specialty: Diplomacy and human rights advocacy with a focus on international religious freedom.

Fernanda E. San Martín Carrasco

Affiliation: Director of the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB).
Specialty: Advocacy through legal and parliamentary channels for global religious freedom.

José Ramos MP (Panama): Panamanian politician and Vice President of the Christian Democratic Organization of America

Godfred Seidu Jasaw MP (Ghana): MP for the Wa East constituency

John Azumah

Affiliation: Professor at The Sanneh Institute, Ghana.
Specialty: Islamic studies and Christian-Muslim dialogue.
Notable Work: Prominent scholar in fostering religious tolerance and dialogue in Africa.

Uriel Simonsohn

Affiliation: Professor at Haifa University.
Specialty: Historian specializing in Jewish-Christian-Muslim relations during the medieval period.

His Excellency Sheikh Al Mahfoudh bin Bayyah:

Alliance of Virtue: No specific social handles found.
Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace: You can follow @AD_Forum4Peace on Twitter.

Dr. Chris Seiple

Affiliation: Senior Fellow at LYNC, President Emeritus of the Institute for Global Engagement.
Specialty: Religious diplomacy and governance, with a focus on pluralism.

Dr. Dennis Hoover

Affiliation: Senior Fellow at LYNC, Editor-in-Chief of The Review of Faith & International Affairs.
Specialty: Scholar of religion and global affairs, focusing on religious freedom policy.

Azamat Danakhmentov

Affiliation: Chief Expert of the Law Implementation Practice, Department of the Committee on Religious Affairs, Kazakhstan.
Specialty: Legal work focused on religious affairs in Kazakhstan.

Dilshod Mamatkulov

Affiliation: Deputy Chair of Committee on Religious Affairs, Uzbekistan.
Specialty: Religious policy and government engagement in Uzbekistan.

Zaza Vashakmadze

Affiliation: Chairman of the State Agency for Religious Issues, Georgia.
Specialty: Interfaith relations and governmental religious policy in Georgia.

Guram Imerishvili

Affiliation: Christian Youth Movement of Georgia.
Specialty: Religious leadership focusing on youth activism and Christian engagement.

Ion Groza

Affiliation: Member of Parliament, Moldova.
Specialty: Advocate for religious freedom and political stability.

Valeriu Ghilețchi

Affiliation: President of the European Christian Political Movement (ECPM), Moldova.
Specialty: Christian democratic values and religious freedom advocacy.

Imam Bijigit Qoshiev

Affiliation: Imam and Grand Mufti Advisor, Muslim Spiritual Board, Kazakhstan.
Specialty: Islamic leadership and advisory work in Kazakhstan.

Imam Shovkat Khamdamov

Affiliation: Imam, Spiritual Muslim Administration, Uzbekistan.
Specialty: Islamic leadership and religious dialogue in Uzbekistan.

Imam Nazirkhan Tashkhodjaev

Affiliation: Imam and Grand Mufti Advisor, Muslim Spiritual Board, Kazakhstan.
Specialty: Islamic leadership in Kazakhstan.

Pastor Arman Arenbayev

Affiliation: Pastor, Kazakhstan.
Specialty: Christian leadership in Kazakhstan.

Pastor Oleg Vorojtsov

Affiliation: Pastor, Uzbekistan.
Specialty: Christian leadership within Uzbekistan's religious landscape.

LYNC RADIO: USCIRF Extended, Wade Reflects on Nantucket, and an Upcoming Civil Society Program in Berlin

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0400

For more information, including access to blogs, radio programs, and video shows, visit lyncommunity.org.
IRF Secretariat Civil Society Program, Berlin, October 8-10. Visit IRFsecretariat.org for registration details.

[00:00] – Introduction

Host Jessica Eturralde introduces the episode’s key topics, including LYNC’s new media initiative, USCIRF's reauthorization, and upcoming events in Berlin.

[00:25] – New Media Initiative by LYNC

Love Your Neighbor Community launches a media initiative to promote dialogue between individuals of different beliefs. Listeners are encouraged to like, subscribe, and share to help expand these conversations. More details at lyncommunity.org.

[01:15] – USURF Act of 2024 Reauthorization

On September 23rd, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Act of 2024, extending the Commission’s work until 2026. The bipartisan bill addresses rising religious persecution globally, including in countries like China, Iran, and North Korea. Key advocates included Senators Marco Rubio and Ben Cardin, with support from USCIRF leadership. The bill now awaits President Biden’s signature.

[04:00] – Wade Kusack Attends Nantucket Project

LYNC CEO Wade Kusack attended the Nantucket Project, an annual gathering that explores trauma healing, societal divisions, and pluralism. Notable participants included former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, survivors of the Hamas attack, and Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen.

[06:15] – Berlin Ministerial and Conference on Extremism and Religious Freedom

LYNC partners with the IRF Secretariat and Templeton Religion Trust to host a two-day civil society conference in Berlin. The event will bring majority world voices into conversations on religious freedom and extremism, aiming to build social cohesion and resilience. View IRF Secretariat's event page here: https://irfsecretariat.org/berlin-program/#

[08:00] – Closing Remarks

For more information, including access to blogs, radio programs, and video shows, visit lyncommunity.org.

LYNC RADIO: New Fellows Join Love Your Neighbor Community, LYNC Partners Celebrate Uzbek Independence

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0400

[00:00] – Introduction

Host Jessica Eturralde welcomes listeners to LYNC RADIO and announces upcoming topics, including new colleagues at Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC) and celebrations of Uzbekistan's Independence Day.

[00:30] – New Media Initiative

LYNC launches a new media initiative to foster conversations between people of different beliefs. The initiative aims to encourage open dialogue and understanding through shared perspectives. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and share the program to expand conversations around social cohesion. Visit lyncommunity.org for more information.

[01:20] – Introducing New Senior Fellows

LYNC welcomes two new senior fellows:

Dr. Chris Seiple, head of the Sagestone Group, brings over 30 years of experience in building social cohesion. He has worked with organizations like Templeton Religion Trust and the World Economic Forum, and has contributed extensively to U.S. government religious policy.
Dr. Dennis Hoover, editor-in-chief of the Review of Faith & International Affairs, is an expert in faith and global affairs. His recent works focus on religious diversity and covenantal pluralism in Asia.

[03:00] – Contributions of New Fellows

Both Dr. Seiple and Dr. Hoover will contribute to LYNC’s blogs and interviews. Dr. Seiple’s latest blog, In the Beginning, addresses human rights, religious violence, and conflict resolution through the lens of Genesis.

LYNC Senior Fellow Dennis R. Hoover recently published an essay at Portico titled, “Knowledge About Religions is Good—But Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy is Better.” The essay elaborates on cross-cultural religious literacy, abridged from his address at a conference in Georgia.

[04:00] – New Team Members

LYNC also welcomes:

Halina Kusack as Administration Director
Carter Brown as Project Manager for the Covenantal Pluralism Initiative in South Florida.

[04:30] – Uzbekistan’s Independence Day Celebration

Halina Kusack attended Uzbekistan’s Independence Day celebration in Washington, D.C., marking the country’s freedom from the Soviet Union in 1991. The event featured traditional music, dance, and cuisine, offering an opportunity for diplomats and officials to celebrate Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and achievements.

[06:10] – Conclusion

Listeners are encouraged to visit lyncommunity.org and explore more programs under the Media tab.

Visit: lyncommunity.org for more information and updates from Love Your Neighbor Community.

LYNC RADIO: Train the Trainers Program Recap

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Host: Jessica Eturralde

Program: Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC) Radio

Topic: Recap of the "Train the Trainers" program, focusing on religious freedom efforts in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Episode Overview

In this episode, Jessica Eturralde from LYNC RADIO discusses the recent "Train the Trainers" program facilitated by Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC) in partnership with the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Secretariat and the Multi-Faith Neighbors Network. The program is a significant step in fostering religious freedom in Central Asia, specifically in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Key Highlights & Timestamps:

[00:15] Introduction to the Program
Jessica introduces the episode, sharing excitement about the recently released "Train the Trainers" report. The program was held in Washington, D.C., and Phoenix, Arizona, bringing together 30 delegates from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
[00:45] Overview of the "Train the Trainers" Program
The training focused on cross-cultural religious dialogue, where participants visited places of worship, observed roundtables in the U.S., and collaborated on creating similar initiatives in their home countries.
[01:20] Delegates' Backgrounds
Attendees included representatives from government institutions, religious leaders, and civil society from both countries, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and dialogue.
[02:05] Relationship Building and MOUs
The program is the result of nearly a decade of relationship-building efforts, including Memorandums of Understanding with Kazakhstan's and Uzbekistan's Committees on Religious Affairs.
[02:45] Roundtables in Kazakhstan
Following the program, LYNC President Wade Kusack and IRF Secretariat CEO Greg Mitchell co-hosted roundtables in Kazakh cities like Almaty, Shu, and Shymkent, fostering the development of local "multi-faith clubs."
[03:20] Positive Outcomes and Future Plans
Graduates of the program have begun establishing the Kazakhstani IRF Secretariat and organizing additional roundtables across Kazakhstan, with plans for a multi-faith retreat in October 2024.
[04:00] Sustainability and Future Initiatives
LYNC aims to sustain these efforts through the Covenantal Pluralism Initiative, with future developments anticipated in 2025 and beyond, including a new Memorandum of Understanding with Uzbekistan.
[04:45] Conclusion
Jessica wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to visit LYNC’s website for more details and to stay updated on upcoming initiatives.

Additional Resources:

Train the Trainers Program Report: Available on LYNC’s website under the "Our Work" tab or here: https://lyncommunity.org/report/journey-from-central-asia-to-the-grand-canyon-bridges-cultures/
Upcoming Events: Information on the multi-faith retreat and future roundtables can be found on LYNC’s events page.

Call to Action:

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with your network. Stay informed about the latest developments in religious freedom and how you can be part of the change.

Host: Jessica Eturralde

Produced by: Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC) RADIO

LYNC RADIO: Wade Visits Tashkent, Multi-Faith Clubs in Kazakhstan, and a Word on Religion from the Public Square

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 15:30:00 -0400

Host: Jessica Eturralde, Communications Director at Love Your Neighbor Community

Guest: Wade Kusack, Founder & President of Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC)

In this episode of LYNC Radio, Jessica Eturralde takes listeners on a journey with Wade Kusack as he explores the evolving landscape of religious freedom in Central Asia. From interfaith dialogues in Uzbekistan to multi-faith clubs in Kazakhstan, this episode highlights the global push for building bridges across religious divides.

Key Segments:

[00:35] – New Media Initiative: Encouraging Conversations Across Beliefs

Jessica opens with a call to action, introducing LYNC's new media initiative designed to foster conversations between people of different faiths. By broadening discussions on religious freedom, LYNC hopes to encourage mutual understanding. Listeners are invited to engage by liking, subscribing, and sharing these conversations with others.

[02:10] – Dialogue of Declarations II in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Wade Kusack recaps his visit to Tashkent for the second Dialogue of Declarations, building upon the work started in Bukhara in 2022. This important gathering saw the continued implementation of human rights provisions from the Bukhara Declaration, named after the historic city where the first dialogue took place.

[04:20] – Multi-Faith Clubs in Kazakhstan

After Tashkent, Wade headed to Kazakhstan, partnering with Greg Mitchell, CEO of the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Secretariat. Together, they hosted Religious Freedom Roundtables in cities like Almaty, Shu, and Shymkent. These roundtables aim to foster peace by establishing Multi-Faith Clubs, localized adaptations of the U.S. roundtable model.

[06:10] – Strengthening U.S.-Kazakhstan Religious Freedom Partnerships

At a pivotal meeting hosted by the Nazarbayev Center, Wade, Greg Mitchell, and LYNC’s Kazakhstan representative Arman Arimbaev reinforced Kazakhstan’s commitment to working with U.S. NGOs. They agreed to co-host future events focused on promoting religious freedom and dialogue.

[08:05] – LYNC Hits the Streets: U.S. Public Opinion on Religious Dialogue

In July, LYNC correspondents took to the streets across the U.S. to ask people a simple but revealing question: “When was the last time you spoke to someone with different religious beliefs?” This segment sheds light on how everyday conversations can lead to a broader societal understanding of religious diversity.

[10:15] – Get Involved with LYNC

Jessica wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to visit LYNCcommunity.org for more information on the events and initiatives discussed. She highlights the upcoming programs and updates designed to expand conversations on religious freedom and cooperation across belief systems.

Conclusion:

This episode of LYNC Radio showcases Love Your Neighbor Community's ongoing efforts to promote religious freedom, both globally and locally. From interfaith declarations in Uzbekistan to fostering grassroots conversations in American streets, LYNC continues to work toward a more inclusive world.

Call to Action:

Visit LYNCcommunity.org for more details on these stories and how to support or get involved. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

LYNC RADIO: Uzbekistan Religious Freedom Delegation -A Journey of Dialogue and Progress

Love Your Neighbor Community — Tue, 14 May 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Read the full report: https://lyncommunity.org/report/assessment-of-religious-freedom-in-uzbekistan/

Host: Jessica Eturralde

Date: [04/01/2024]

Program: LYNC RADIO - A Love Your Neighbor Community Program

Summary:

In this episode, Jessica Eturralde discusses a delegation to Uzbekistan of religious freedom experts conducted earlier this year by the request of Uzbekistan’s leaders. The delegation explored Uzbekistan’s religious freedom landscape, meeting with government officials, religious leaders, and civil society actors across the country. The episode highlights key insights from the trip, including the willingness of Uzbek officials to engage in open dialogue on religious freedom issues.

Key Moments:

[00:05] Introduction:
Jessica Eturralde introduces the episode, emphasizing the importance of discussing religious freedom issues openly.
[00:30] The Uzbekistan Delegation:
Jessica describes the delegation's purpose and key participants, including Dr. Chris Seiple, Dr. Mohamed Elsanousi, Mr. Wade Kusack, and Ms. Nadine Mayenza.
[01:15] The Importance of Context:
Discussion on the necessity of considering Uzbekistan’s historical, geopolitical, economic, and security contexts when assessing religious freedom.
[02:00] The Delegation’s Journey:
The delegation's travel route through Tashkent, Fergana City, Bukhara, Termez, and Nucos, and the various meetings held with diverse stakeholders.
[02:45] On-the-Ground Observations:
Dr. Mohamed Elsanousi shares his experience visiting different religious communities, including a touching story about a Pentecostal community and a Baptist church in Bukhara.
[04:00] A Unique Proposal:
Dr. Elsanousi recounts a conversation with Pastor Shukrat about potentially accommodating Baptist Christians in a mosque, reviving an ancient tradition of interfaith cooperation.
[05:00] Report Findings:
Summary of the delegation's report, which highlights Uzbekistan’s progress in religious freedom, including improvements in worship freedom, religious organization registration, and higher education reforms.
[06:00] Willingness for Dialogue:
Dr. Elsanousi reflects on the openness of Uzbek officials to discuss and address religious freedom challenges, emphasizing the positive atmosphere for ongoing dialogue.
[07:00] Final Thoughts and Report Access:
Jessica Eturralde concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to read the full report on the Love Your Neighbor Community website for more in-depth insights and recommendations.

Closing Remarks:

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe for more updates on religious freedom initiatives and ongoing projects. Visit Love Your Neighbor Community for additional resources and upcoming programs.

Listen and Subscribe:

Website: lyncommunity.org
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