A scholar who specializes in the study of Christian-Muslim relations says that in the wake of the mass shootings in New Zealand, it's important now more than ever to dispell fear and ignorance.
Rita George-Tvrtkovic, associate professor of theology at Benedictine University in Illinois, says overcoming sterotypes requires a deliberate effort.
"One of the challenges is how do we get busy working moms and dads, busy families, kids, engaged in getting to know the 'other'?" she said. "The Vatican talks about this 'diaologue of life'; it has to happen in the classroom, in the worklace, very informal. I'd say one of the best ways we can do it is to share a meal with somebody."
Interfaith relations are too often seen as the domain of historians and religious leaders, George-Tvrtkovic said, but she believes that not sufficient enough.
"It's really among ordinary people that changes need to happen and are most important," she explained. "Things can happen at the official level, but if the attitudes and the minds aren't changed at the grassroots level, then ultimately nothing will change in our culture."
George-Tvrtkovic is delivering two lectures at Nazareth College this week. The first is Thursday, March 21 at 7 p.m. at the Shults Center. That event is free and open to the public.
The second presentation is on Friday, March 22 at 1:30 p.m. at Linehan Chapel at the Golisano Academic Center. That is also free and open to the public.