We spend five minutes with Geoff Boyce, Chaplain of Flinders University, Adelaide, and SA Representative to the Working Group on Relations with Other Faiths.
How did you become interested in interfaith work?
I became conscious of people of other faiths when I commenced chaplaincy at
What motivates you to continue fostering interfaith relationship?
As I began to meet people of other faiths I discovered that they often valued my friendship and support and I found myself becoming friends with many wonderful people. My own life was enriched by their friendship. In particular, I found that my own faith was broadened and deepened. Now, fostering interfaith relationships is a natural part of my life and I think I would be very much the poorer without it. In fact I can't see myself enjoying life without my neighbour.
Have you attended an interfaith event in the last month?
Yes, we invite international students into our home for a Sunday afternoon tea every month. We call it an interfaith group but the topics of conversation arise among the students themselves.
And, of course, each week the chaplains of various faiths meet for lunch at Flinders to discuss their work of service to the university.
What do you think are the challenges of your interfaith work in the coming 12 months?
There is a lot to do to normalise positive interfaith relationships in the community - in workplaces and schools. But I wonder whether there is even more to be done to encourage our churches - I wonder how conversation about interfaith relations might be encouraged. And I wonder how our theological institutions and schools and colleges might be proactive in developing collaborative initiatives, extending the hand of friendship and partnership.
One of the challenges I face is to develop a funding model for multifaith ministry.
Another is establishing appropriate training and accreditation for chaplains who minister in religiously plural settings, such as universities.
Do you have a recommendation for someone wanting to get involved in interfaith relations / dialogue?
Firstly one needs to make contact. Working with asylum seekers has been one way people have discovered the joys and challenges of interfaith work. Or a Uni chaplain might set up a meal for you where guests are invited - or there might be opportunities to volunteer at University - students often want to improve their English, and many overseas students would value being invited into an Australian home as part of their cross-cultural experience in coming to Australia to study.
If all else fails, turn up at the local mosque or synagogue or temple - you may be surprised at your welcome! After that, just seek to understand. And if you can do something positive for others together, even better!