Group explores Abrahamic faiths

In these times of religious tension, people are becoming more aware of the need to look at the similarities of the world's religions rather than the differences. The aim of the nationally recognized group Daughters of Abraham is to do just that, broadening the knowledge of its group members with regard to the religions that have branched from Abraham, namely Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

Originating in Cambridge, Mass., the group has provided a template for other groups to form. There is a chapter of this group on the Boston College campus, the first to be based at a university. Emily Neumeier, A&S '08, who founded this group as a sophomore, said, "As the fabric of our society becomes more pluralistic, I think there's this real hunger to learn about the different religions."

As the first college group of this kind, they have a unique perspective. Unlike other groups that usually consist of one age bracket, this group has members from three different generations, including BC professors, staff, students, and women from outside the BC community. This creates a unique dynamic, as well as interesting dialogue. "It's a nice way to gather with other women of different religions to learn about other faiths and share life stories," said Jennie Thomas, faculty participant in the group and assistant director of the Presidential Scholars Program at BC.

Although one might think that this type of group would prompt debate, the forum is only for respectful curiosity. The women in the group truly want to learn and understand about the other religions. "It is ingrained in our minds that we're not to talk about religion or ask questions about other religions," Neumeier said. Usually, debates occur between women of the same religion who experience their religion differently, but it's always within a positive and supportive environment.

Meeting approximately once a month, members discuss a wide range of topics, although certain poems, stories, films, and articles are used to ignite the conversation. Even though it is technically a book club, it is more about discussing universal themes, tearing down stereotypes, and being proactive in helping society become more tolerant. In one meeting, for example, instead of discussing a book, the women brought prayers from their respective religions and explained their significance.

There are about 10 to 15 women at each meeting, which members say is conducive for in-depth and open discussion. New members are always welcome, especially since many of the current members are seniors. Usually lasting two hours, the meetings are a time for the women to share personal stories about their religions and about life in general. "It's easier to coexist if you understand why someone does what they do," Neumeier said.

During the meetings, they also decide on what book will be discussed at the next meeting. They either rotate between the three faiths or choose a book that has to do with all three. College students have busy schedules, which Neumeier understands. That's why the group makes sure that the readings are not overwhelming, she said; sometimes the group only reads a few chapters from a book.

The group is not just for theologians; members are not expected to represent their religions, just to share their experiences. Even those who don't identify themselves with one of the three religions - or with a religion at all - are welcome.

The next meeting is on Dec. 3 at 4:15 p.m. in Bapst Library, where they will discuss the book, The Ornament of the World, by María Rosa Menocal. It is about Muslims, Jews, and Christians in medieval Spain and how they created a tolerant environment.

After much debate, the Daughters of Abraham will remain an all-female group, since they believe that talking about different religions is already a difficult discussion. Another layer of gender issues could cause complications, the members said. It's also about women forming relationships with other women through similar experiences in life. They said that having the single-sex environment may be essential for some women to be completely open about certain issues.

The Daughters of Abraham, however, are not opposed to being a resource for men who would want to start their own book and discussion group. Neumeier even encourages men to start sharing their faiths and experiences with each other.

In an era when understanding and communication is vital to promoting tolerance, groups like the Daughters of Abraham hold special significance.