In Theory

I believe it is very important for us to not only know about one another’s holy days and observations, but to celebrate and observe with each other! This coming Wednesday the Newport Mesa Interfaith luncheon will feature a panel of speakers from four different religions on holy days. What better way for us to understand each other than join together in ritual?

Join us at noon Wednesday at Our Lady Queen of Angels Roman Catholic Church. Surely, our own spiritual journeys can only be enhanced when we learn and experience from each other!

The Rev. Sarah Halverson

Fairview Community Church

Costa Mesa

Dialogue among religious leaders is certainly important. Involvement in rituals can at times also be fruitful and a way to expand and enrich our appreciation of what religions other than our own have to offer.

On the one hand, there have to be limits in place so as not to cause confusion to the faithful. On the other hand, where it is possible and permissible, “cross over” participation should be encouraged. Bishop Tod Brown on occasion invites various religious leaders to Holy Family Cathedral for a prayer service followed by a reception. I have had some interesting conversations with people of different faiths at these receptions, which allowed us to share what we believe in a friendly manner.

Fr. Stephen Doktorczyk

Saint Joachim Church

Costa Mesa

Ritual is not emphasized in Zen, especially in the United States. Our focus is on meditation and its applications in ordinary daily life.

Because there is no set of beliefs or creed that anyone is expected to accept, there are Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, Taoist and atheist Zen practitioners. Rituals, offered during retreats, feature universal and easily understood practices such as offering incense, dedications, recitations and special consideration of the needs of those who are sick or suffering.

As far as co-officiating, for example in wedding or funeral services, I think the most important thing is careful planning about who is doing what. A reflection or prayer may express one of the religious traditions, while another section of the liturgy may highlight the other co-officiant’s tradition — with both officiants emphasizing their common ground for a rich, joyful and harmonious event.

The Rev. Deborah Barrett

Zen Center of Orange County

Costa Mesa