VIENNA INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN–ISLAMIC SUMMER UNIVERSITY 2010 VICISU PROGRAMME VICISU IN BRIEF — Vienna International Christian-Islamic Summer University 4 to 24 July 2010

First Week Second Week Third Week

Prof. Dr. Ingeborg Gabriel Prof. Dr. Geries Khoury Dr. Fatimah Husein UNIVERSITY OF VIENNA AL-LIQUA CENTER JERUSALEM THE STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY AUSTRIA YOGYAKARTA/INDONESIA Christianity, Dogma and Introduction to Christianity Christian-Muslim Interfaith Religious Pluralism

Prof. Dr. Mualla Selçuk Dr. Angelika Walser Prof. Dr. Irmgard Marboe ANKARA UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF VIENNA UNIVERSITY OF VIENNA TURKEY AUSTRIA AUSTRIA Introduction to Islam Gender and Religion from Religion and the State the Christian Perspective

Prof. Dr. Irmgard Marboe Prof. Dr. Mathias Rohe Mag. Judith Albrecht UNIVERSITY OF VIENNA UNIVERSITY OF ERLANGEN AUSTRIA BERLIN/GERMANY GERMANY Introduction to International Law & Islamic Law – Selected Topics Sarah Swick, MSc Prof. Dr. Javaid Rehman DAR AL HEKMA COLLEGE BRUNEL UNIVERSITY JEDDAH/SAUDI ARABIA UNITED KINGDOM Gender and Religion from Human Rights and Minorities the Islamic Perspective

Prof. Dr. Joseph Ndi-Okalla UNIVERSITÉ CATHOLIQUE, The Vienna International Chris- Both the 1st Summer University Iran, Kasakhstan, Kosovo, Malay- and Christian perspectives, as YAOUNDÉ/ CAMEROON tian-Islamic Summer University in 2008 and its 2nd incarnation in sia, Morocco, Pakistan, Romania, well as discussions of gender and Social Rights and Poverty (VICISU) is a three-week summer 2010 took place at Stift Alten- Saudia Arabia, Turkey, USA, UK, religion, constitutionalism in a programme that brings together burg, a Benedictine monastery in and Austria. The programme con- globalised world, religion and the professors and students from uni- Lower Austria. The monastery, sisted of nine lectures, afternoon State, religious pluralism, minority versities in Christian and Muslim well known for its Garden of the workshops, and evening talks. Pro- issues, and more. In addition, the countries all around the world. It Religions, offers an atmosphere of fessors came from the University of programme provided for excursions evolved out of the Vienna Inter- warmth and spirituality that per- Vienna and from other universities, to Vienna and to the countryside, national Christian-Islamic Round meates a welcoming and comfort- within and outside Europe. many evening programmes, sports, Table, an initiative that was started able living space. The lectures, all in the and cultural activities. by academics from several fields of The Summer University 2010, overarching fields of law, theology, The Vienna International specialisation, such as law, theol- which lasted from the 4th to the and social sciences, included Christian-Islamic Summer Univer- ogy, and social sciences, and that 24th of July, welcomed 43 students introductions to Islam and to sity is organised by the University attempted to deal with important from universities in 17 countries: Christianity, to interreligious of Vienna and mainly financially contemporary issues from different Australia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, dialogue, to human rights, and to supported by the Austrian Ministry scholarly perspectives. Cameroon, Germany, Indonesia, the topic of freedom from Muslim of Science and Research.

VICISU 2 VICISU 3 specialised topics followed. by Leonard Swidler. In the and intercultural dialogue the learning process was Today, we are committed to LEARNING FROM Javaid Rehman, professor of third week, Mathias Rohe can be meaningful only if not only about “the other” ­continue this learning proc- International Law and dean (Germany), in his course it at least attempts to deal but also about one’s own ess and to stay in contact. at the Law Faculty of Brunel “Islamic Law – Selected with the several aspects background. “­Introduction For this purpose, we created EACH OTHER University (UK), concen- Topics,” dealt with legal and facets of our pluralistic to Christianity” was not an internet platform under trated on human rights of aspects of religious pluralism world. Most helpful in this only interesting to the the title “Network for a minorities. Angelika Walser on the international and on respect was that all of the Muslim students but also Better World,” to which all (Austria), Sarah Swick the national level. In replace- participants stayed and lived to Christian students, who of the professors and our (Saudi Arabia), and Judith ment of Stefan Hammer, I together for the duration of got an idea how to present alumni are invited. This Albrecht (Germany) dealt — with gender issues from the by IRMGARD MARBOE Christian and the Muslim Professor of International Law, University of Vienna, Austria perspectives, the latter two emphasising also the impor- VICISU Director tance of anthropological and sociological approaches. Joseph Okalla, a Catholic Summer University rested priest and theologian at on three “pillars,” namely the Université Catholique Christian Theology, Islamic Yaoundé (Cameroon), dedi- Theology, and Law. They cated his course to the issue were represented in the of social rights and social three introductory courses justice. He also initiated of the first week. Ingeborg Gabriel, professor of Social Ethics at the Faculty of Catholic Theology of the University of Vienna (Aus- tria), and Geries Khoury from the AL-Liqua Center, Jerusalem, taught the course “Introduction to Christi- anity.” They provided an overview of the foundations of Christian theology and then proceeded to discuss the importance of dialogue from the Christian perspec- tive. Mualla Selçuk from Christian faith and tradition idea goes back to Prof. Ankara University Faculty in a nutshell. Father Andreas Bsteh of of Divinity (Turkey) in her I would like to thank Prof. St. Gabriel (Austria), the course “Introduction to Ingeborg Gabriel for her founder of VICISU, who Islam” explained the basics tireless effort in co-organis- has for many decades been of Islamic theology and dis- ing this Summer University active in interreligious cussed a variety of concepts and the Faculty of Catholic dialogue and laid the Learning from each eroon, Germany, Indonesia, Christian for his continued also helped this Summer and approaches in contem- the project of formulating offered the course “Religion three weeks. They also spent Theology for its support. foundation for our dialogue other—this probably was the Iran, Israel, Kazakhstan, support and warm welcome, University happen. All of porary interpretations and the concrete outcomes and and the State,”, in which I the weekends together and Our assistans Melanie Fink initiative. We hope that we most significant character- Kosovo, Malaysia, Morocco, and Father Michael, who the professors and students practice of Islam. In my further initiatives the partici- discussed some models of had several excursions. In and Christine Föger were will be able to continue istic of the Vienna Inter- Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, diligently cared for the of VICISU recognized and course “Human Rights and pants foresaw as a result of the relationship between contrast to other dialogue invaluable pillars for the these efforts of improving national Christian-Islamic Turkey, United Kingdom, physical and spiritual well- highly appreciated this sup- International Law in the this year’s VICISU. Fatimah religion and the State. initiatives, the VICISU par- preparation and carrying Christian-Islamic under- Summer University (VI- and the United States of being of all the participants. port. There was an agree- Context of Religion,“ I Husein, who teaches theol- This multidisciplinary ap- ticipants not only exchanged out of this project. Katha- standing and cooperation CISU) 2010. For the second America spent three weeks Our deep gratitude also ment on the outstanding addressed legal aspects of ogy and philosophy at the proach was a challenge for theoretical ideas but also rina Albrecht-Stadler once and to truly live up to our time, this intercultural and together at the monastery in goes to the Austrian Federal importance of Christian- intercultural and interreli- State Islamic University all of the participants of the experienced intercultural again did a marvellous job vision of creating a “Net- interreligious educational the Northern part of Aus- Ministry of Science and Islamic understanding and gious dialogue, in particular in Yogyakarta (Indonesia), Summer University, students learning in practice. in the logistics and adminis- work for a Better World”. project took place at the Ab- tria. The wonderful historic Research, which even in cooperation, which needed by discussing some basic analysed in her course on and professors alike. For Our participants came trative aspects as well as for bey of Altenburg in Lower building and the generosity times of budgetary con- promotion and improve- concepts of international religious pluralism various example, the theologians from very diverse back- looking after personal needs Austria from 4 to 24 July and hospitality of the Ben- straints continued to provide ment even—and, perhaps, law and the importance of aspects of and approaches to did not always find it easy grounds, from many parts of the participants. The 2010. edictine monks provided the the financial basis for our more importantly—in these international human rights interreligious dialogue. She to get acquainted with the of the world. They all were credit for putting together Students and professors optimal conditions for our endeavours. economically difficult times. instruments. introduced and discussed, concepts presented in the dedicated and enthusiastic this magazine goes also to from Australia, Austria, Bos- undertaking. I would like to A number of other institu- The second Vienna Inter- After these three intro- among other subjects, the legal courses, and vice versa. to contribute to the discus- her and to Marsha for the nia and Herzegovina, Cam- thank in particular Abbot tional and private sponsors national Christian-Islamic ductory courses, more “The Dialogue Decalogue” Nevertheless, interreligious sions and activities, and so proof reading.

VICISU 4 VICISU 5 Minister Dr. Beatrix Karl Abbot Christian Haidinger —Austrian Federal Ministry of Science and Research, Austria — Altenburg Abbey (Stift Altenburg), Austria

contributing to a common the people by praying and © Jungwirthunderstanding between working. Our community than half of the participants Muslims and Christians and today consists of 13 monks. were women, more than to promote this intercultural We try to make the people After the success of the half were Muslims. This dialogue. In this context of today experience the first Vienna International year´s Vienna International let me quote my predeces- It was a great pleasure for Abbey as a spiritual centre Christian-Islamic Sum- Christian-Islamic Summer sor, Minister Hahn, in his me to welcome – also on and to serve them as priests mer University in 2008 the Minorities”, “Gender and University again has been foreword of the booklet of behalf of my confreres – so in the parishes of the neigh- second course was held Turkey, United Kingdom, Religion”, “Social Rights”, a convincing example of the first Christian-Islamic many guests from all over bourhood. again at Altenburg Abbey USA and Austria) met for a Religious Pluralism”, “Is- positive energy, friendship Summer University: “It the world in the Abbey dialogue as the Second founder, Benedict of Nursia We, and in particular from 4th to 24th July 2010. very challen-ging program lamic Law” und “Religion and mutual respect. The was the right step down the of Altenburg, in a rather Vatican Council demands lived in Italy between 480 Father Michael who is re- 43 participants from 17 consisting of lectures of and the State”. In addition students learned about other long road to a peaceful and remote corner in the coun- from us. Therefore, we were glad and 547. He was in search sponsible for the wellbeing countries (Australia, Bosnia- Austrian and international many discussions gave the religions, cultures and tradi- respectful coexistence in this tryside of Austria. After the This sacred synod urges, and grateful that we could of God and wrote – after of the guests in our house, Herzegovina, Germany, experts on topics as e. g. chance to reflect the content tions, but also about each world”. And therefore, the first Vienna International since in the course of host the “VICISU 2010” many experiences – a “rule” tried our best to make the Indonesia, Iran, Romania, “Introduction to Islam and of the lectures in the light other. During the last years, Christian-Islamic Summer Christian-Islamic Summer centuries not a few quarrels in our monastery. We hope for those who wanted to live VICISU participants feel Cameroon, Kazakhstan, Christianity”, “Introduc- of everyday life and to put it the Austrian Federal Minis- University will take place University two years ago, it and hostilities have arisen that it was a good place for their Christendom together comfortable and to provide Kosovo, Morocco, Pakistan, tion to International Law”, in the context of reality and try of Science and Research again in 2012. was already the second time between Christian and the discussions and talks, in a community. Since more good working and living Malaysia, Saudi-Arabia, “Human Rights and personal experiences. More has taken various efforts in that we could spend three Muslims, “to forget the for presentations on various than 1500 years until today, conditions in those three fulfilled weeks together with past and to work sincerely topics of interreligious many thousands of men weeks spent together with our Christian and Muslim for mutual understanding dialogue, but above all for and women decide to follow us also almost like monks. guests in our monastery. I especially thank Prof. We feel again very much Ingeborg Gabriel, Prof. enriched and strengthened Irmgard Marboe and all Prof. Dr. Arthur Mettinger after these three weeks. It is of the other professors who good and important that we have contributed to the pro- —Vice Rector of the University of Vienna, Austria in Altenburg remain a place gramme in the three weeks. for open encounters and I thank the students, for interreligious dialogue. coming and hope that the I assume that the experiences and encounters participants have come at the Summer University to Austria with manifold at the Abbey of Altenburg expectations. Curiosity and will remain important for also insecurity might have them and strengthen them is always an important accompanied them. in the future. May God nationalization strategy I mission and universities are In the same way, also we, bless you and protect you. also welcome the fact that well-advised to never forget the monks of Altenburg, for Educational Program - technically speaking, the not only Austrian students their contribution for a bet- have expected them, yet Organized by the Development and Interna- “learning outcomes” - the and teachers but students ter functioning of society at also with openness and University of Vienna, with tionalization at the Univer- students of the Vienna and teachers from so many large. Thus, initiatives that in the mindset of Saint more than forty partici- sity of Vienna the success International Christian- countries have participated. actively foster dialogue and Benedict who asks from us pants from fifteen countries of this Summer University Islamic Summer University This shows that the Univer- learning from each other to welcome every guest as if and five continents, the makes me particularly glad have taken along with them sity of Vienna is an attrac- like this summer university it were Jesus Christ. Second Vienna Interna- for three reasons: First, by far exceed the outcomes tive place to study, learn can be regarded as active, Since in 2006, when we tional Christian-Islamic “Summer University” is of their regular “during- and teach for people from sustainable contribution to opened in our monas- and to preserve as well as living and experiencing the this path, living together in a Summer University 2010 an educational format the term” courses. Second, as all over the world and that a world of tolerance and tery the “Garden of the to promote together for encounter with people of community of Christians. impressively shows that University of Vienna still the University of Vienna we are successfully pursu- mutual understanding. Religions”, our community the benefit of all mankind different cultures and differ- Our monastery exists for dialogue and learning makes too little use of de- actively fosters the mobility ing the path of interna- I thank all participants, engages in making a mod- social justice and moral ent religious backgrounds. more than 850 years. In all from each other is indeed spite the chances it entails. of researchers, students tionalization in education lecturers and organizers for est but perhaps not insig- welfare, as well as peace The ambiance of a Benedic- those centuries, the monks possible! I am sure that the knowl- and teachers within the and research. Finally, the contributing to the success nificant contribution to the and freedom.” (Nostra tine monastery might have have lived up to their As Vice Rector responsible edge, skills and experiences framework of its inter- advancement of dialogue of this initiative! promotion of interreligious Aetate 3). been strange for many. Our mission to serve God and

VICISU 6 VICISU 7 connected to the very us the strength to work DIA LOGOS special faces of those we’ve for a world of peace and met, to their thoughts, understanding between their laughter, their fears religions and countries THROUGH THE WORD and joys. Each and every and to use our energies to one in this summer school overcome the bad through gave us an image of his the good—which is an or her background and essential teaching of both culture, which we will not our religions, as well as of — easily forget but which Humanist philosophy. by INGEBORG GABRIEL will stay in our minds I, for my part, have taken Professor of Social Ethics, Faculty of Catholic Theology, for a long time. Thus, a lot of courage from these University of Vienna, Austria when we hear about the three weeks, and I want to VICISU Co-Director countries from which our thank all who participated friends came, e. g. in the in VICISU 2010 from the news, we will think about bottom of my heart. them, and this will help us escape generalizations and prejudices. It will give

identities—in our hopes and dreams regarding the future, in our joys and in our sorrows, in our ways of acting and in our reflections on the present world situation. So there is—and these three weeks have proved it—no better way to learn about and from each other and to discover our common human heritage than to BE together. The Abbey of Altenburg showed us again that coexistence is easier in an atmosphere of peace and beauty, in a place where one is welcome and which WHAT A GREAT was built by generations before us through work and GROUP OF prayer. This also, I think, is a general observation. We YOUNG PEOPLE depend on good examples from the past when we FROM ALL OVER want to live together in peace in our world today. THE WORLD This year`s VICISU backgrounds, who are Muslim, a Christian, a each other during meals, Students and teachers was, once again, a most engaged in rather different Westerner, an Arab, or an playing football, or singing at VICISU represented memorable experience. studies and careers! It was Asian ought to be like. But together—or presenting a broad variety of That it would be so was clear already then that this when meeting concrete each their cultural heritage backgrounds—religious, already clear when all the mixture promised three persons, we learn that their at the talent show and at ethnic, educational, participants introduced weeks of exiting encounters, identities and personalities the multiethnic dinner. We and professional. This themselves in the Abbot’s discussions, and simply life are much more varied than also learned that all clichés was a greatly enriching garden the first evening. together. And so it was. our images of them. This are false when we spoke experience, which What a great group of For me, it was again, first became quickly evident with each other about our demonstrated, as nothing young people from all and foremost, an exercise during the lectures, as well faith in God. In all these else can, that respect over the world—Muslims in the deconstruction of as the sometimes heated encounters we realized our and friendship are the and Christians and some any preconceived ideas. discussions afterwards, differences and at the same concrete bases for a agnostics, women and We all have some pictures and even more so as the time how much we are good life together on our men from different ethnic in our heads of what a students got to know alike despite these different planet. They are forever

VICISU 8 VICISU 9 NOT ONLY LEARNING, BUT THE IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING TO BE ENCOUNTER

— — by MUALLA SELCUK programs is that they are by JUDITH ALBRECHT or empowering women in Lecturer of: Introduction to Islam interdisciplinary and that Tutor and Lecturer of: Gender and Religion their societies)—but they Ankara,Turkey the main values of the Berlin, Germany envisioned very different two faiths–Christianity interpretations, positions, ways to their common goal. of our arrival at the Abbey and Islam—are taught by and argumentations. Many It was an enlightening ex- of Altenburg on our first experts, with additional Saudi Arabia and to mod- of the students wanted the perience for me to see that day, we witnessed firsthand tutorial hours lead, in the erate the tutorial “Introduc- same things and agreed certain philosophies and the meeting of different case of my course, by me tion to Islam.” on the same goals (for scientific theories are inter- reasons for conflicts and religions and cultures, and and by Judith Albrecht. Ms. I greatly enjoyed talking example, when discussing preted differently in other In the summer of 2010, struggles. Piety can even be it was quite an experience Albrecht explored the rela- with the students from a poverty, violence, minori- countries and contexts. I Vienna hosted two im- deepened when confronted to feel the warmth of the tionships among religious variety of countries and ties and religious diversity, think we should embrace portant interreligious and with differences. Seeing people when they came life, tradition and interpre- VICISU is an extraor- our diversity and not fear it; intercultural meetings. The God (“…I have created that differences are made face to face. This was with- tation from an anthropolo- dinary institution where we should not be afraid of first was held on 24-26 of with My own hands…” by God is the key for ap- out a doubt an opportunity gist’s point of view. This students and teachers from discussion and even of oral June with the cooperation The Quran, Sad 38:75). proaching people with love for new perceptions, new way, young people had the various countries learn Dialogue sounds nice, but battles. We don´t have to of the Federal Ministry for People have different lan- and empathy. understanding, and new life opportunity to bring new about different aspects of it is a long process, and it agree on everything, but we European and Internation- guages and colors. These VICISU 2010 created not experiences. The speech inputs into their cultural religion and discuss them. can be hard, confusing, have to be precise in what al Affairs and the Depart- differences are narrated only a teaching environ- made by Prof. Bsteh to basins and to strengthen the “Dialogue” is a word which and irritating because you we want to say and in our ment of Social Ethics at the in the Quran as proofs of ment of love and empathy the students and scholars veins and roots of peace in is used a lot in our days. have to listen to explana- definitions and frame- University of Vienna on Allah’s existence and might born of difference but during his visit to Altenburg their cultures. Sometimes to such an tions of phenomena and to works. As academics, we Promoting Female Leader- (“And among His Signs is also a fertile ground for, as was one of the meaningful I must say that the meetings extent that we don´t know interpretations that can be are comfortable within the ship in Intercultural and In- the creation of the heavens it were, being and learn- examples of such experi- at VICISU 2010 also held anymore what it means. contrary to yours or that analytical framework, and terreligious Dialogue. The and the earth, and the ing to be. At the opening ences. Fr. Bsteh’s words, promise for the Christian Ideally, dialogue is con- are simply controversial, we should use it. The idea other was the 2nd Vienna variations in your languages reception, given in honor “We need one thing, and and Muslim instructors/tu- sidered to be an exchange and you have to accept of such an experiment can- International Christian- that is to work hard,” were tors. As an Islamic expres- between two or more equal not be just to try to convince Islamic Summer University describing his life values on sion goes, as we consider parties, but in practice it is each other but to under- (VICISU) organized by the one hand and, on the other the barakah (“fertility”) of a form of communication stand the other side and to University of Vienna and hand, reminding us of these meetings, we have that takes place within cer- learn something about our held at Stift Altenburg on the purpose of all human already begun experienc- tain power structures. It is social realities. We only can 4-24 of July, 2010. I had endeavour. At VICISU, ing the concrete results of important to identify these achieve intercultural com- the honour of participat- people who come from their social, cultural, and power relations underlying munication if we first listen ing in both meetings: to the same essence and the educational activities in our dialogue to analyze them and accept that different present a paper “Building breath of God could see fields. and to talk openly about ideas, beliefs, and practices Bridges and Right Rela- that differences enrich us I particularly wish to render them. Who is allowed to already coexist in, circulate tions: A Study in Promot- and are to be treasured. my sincere thanks to Prof. talk? Who has to listen? around, and shape our ing an Understanding of An intellectually stimulat- Irmgard Marboe and to Who represents what? Who global world. Individualized Religion” for ing aspect of VICISU’s Prof. Ingeborg Gabriel for is excluded from it? the Network on Promoting including me into such an Female Leadership to teach and your colors: verily in encounter. I extend my very them as narratives shaping disciplines about such issues a course “Introduction to that are Signs for those best wishes to Katharina for the realities of this world. as nation-building, borders, Islam” at the VICISU. Both who know.” The Quran, organizing such a successful VICISU tries to create a minorities, gender relations, events left profound marks al- Rum, 30:22). This dif- program. Finally, I present forum where dialogue is and political violence. Reli- on my mind and heart of a ference in languages, colors, my sincere gratitude to really lived and understood gion as an organized social Muslim scholar; both pre- and races is presented the Altenburg family for as a process rather than a phenomenon is connected sented new approaches to to the audience as issues their hospitality. I wish that product. to all of these topics. For the new frontiers of build- covered by the science. In many more encounters be I had the unique chance to me, as a social anthropolo- ing a better global future other words, in the Quran held by VICISU that foster teach the seminar “Gender gist, the most striking out- and to religions’ contribu- our differences are accepted solidarity, peace, and love in and Religion” at this Sum- come of the discussions was tion to world peace. as the objects of research the souls! mer University with my the realization that there Humankind is created by and thought not as the colleague Sarah Swick from existed such a diversity of

VICISU 10 VICISU 11 VICISU 12 VICISU 13 BY CHRISTINE FÖGER, AUSTRIA

Taking a step back: Learning about real listening

“ So, how was your summer school?” I don’t know how often I’ve heard this question during the last few weeks and how often I’ve felt from theological or ethical points of view. How- incapable of finding even approximately the ever, the VICISU group did not only consist right words to describe what I experienced at of Vienna, realising a second later that they were of future theologians but also of students of Stift Altenburg. only strangers who simply reminded me of the law, psychology, business, and social sciences. “Umm, yes, it was…fascinating, amazing, beautiful faces of my new friends from Pakistan, Today I know what a great gift this was for me! informative, hard work... Oh, it’s so hard to Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Cameroon, Australia, I learned how to approach human rights issues describe!” I don’t know how often I’ve given Iran, Morocco, Bosnia, Kosovo, Palestine, also as lawyers do—of course, without giving up made me very quiet. I felt unable to say any- music. To be honest, the feeling was sometimes up, starting to recognize that it would still take Indonesia, Malaysia, USA, UK, Kazakhstan, my own theological arguments. thing because I knew that it was time to listen. even stronger then. I was so deeply moved some time to replace these poor and unstruc- Romania and, of course, Austria. This situation taught me how crucial Indeed, next to understanding the impor- and impressed by all the talents these amaz- tured answers, simply consisting of the first During this time of reflection, I thought loosening the reins of my theological identity tance of taking a step back, the most important ing people were carrying in them and sharing adjectives that came to my mind, with a well back to my first philosophy classes in high can be for having a successful dialogue. Of considered reply that reflected my impressions. school, where we had discussed having to move course, every one of us carries many identi- I knew that my family and friends would have some steps away from a picture in order to see ties—national, cultural, religious, professional, to be patient until they got to hear the things it as a whole. Recalling that, I realised that the and others—that turn our encounter into an they wanted to hear about these indescribable concept of taking a step back would be useful even more interesting and exciting experience. TAKING A STEP OUTSIDE three weeks I had experienced at the beginning in analysing not only how I feel now—unable However, we can succeed only when we learn of this year’s summer holidays. to wrap my mind around what’s happened to how to step back from our various identities and ONE’S OWN IDENTITY I also felt incapable of writing an article me—but also how I felt at Stift Altenburg… look through each other’s eyes. about our VICISU immediately after I had In our three weeks of studying, discussing, This particular incident, though it trig- CAN BE THE ONLY WAY choir, enjoying the indescribable feeling of mak- come home. My head and my heart were so and living together, more than once did I find gered my awareness of the issue, is only one ing music together. full of impressions and memories that I simply myself learning this lesson: that taking a step of many experiences worth bringing up here. I TO SURVIVE IN DIALOGUE After all this, I am convinced that, if we could not make my way through my mind to outside one’s own identity can be the only way to recall plenty of moments when I realised that all—and here I am talking about everyone, draw a conclusion on what this experience “survive in dialogue.” What do I mean by this? my thoughts and argumentations were shaped meaning every student, every bus driver, every meant to me. The image I wanted to create in It started during our group discussion on by my cultural or religious identities as much as thing I learned, possibly for the first time in with all of us that words will never be able to multi-millionaire, every gangster out on the my head was still blurred by the many catchy human rights. I was close to tears and about to those of my interlocutor, who might have come my life, is what it really means to become silent describe what I felt when I heard the sounds street, every mother and every child, every tunes of the songs we sang together, which lose my temper, I felt so misunderstood by the from a country on the very other end of this in order to hear the other. Our time together from Indonesia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Palestine, teacher and every ruler and every politician— simply did not want to get out of my ears, by the others. It took me several moments of reflection world. Be it when talking about relationships was so unique, our conversations so deep and Pakistan, Malaysia, and Columbia. And then, started to step back from our own identities, hundreds and thousands of pictures we started and follow-up conversation to realise that what and marriage, be it when discussing the separa- moving, so full of reciprocal trust and honesty, during many of our evening jam sessions out in ideas, convictions, and creeds, and listened to the to upload onto Facebook and by the comments I needed to do was take off my “theological tion or unity of religion and the State, or simply that I think I simply could not help becoming a the beautiful gardens of Stift Altenburg, all the other in a respectful and appreciative way, the we wrote to them, as well as by the fact that I glasses.” As a student of theology and ethics, when comparing our eating habits and culinary curious and fascinated listener. And this I expe- different voices carrying impressions of all these many different melodies of our world one day kept “seeing” my VICISU friends on the streets I am used to seeing and evaluating everything specialities, time and again the conversation rienced not just while talking but while making precious cultures were joining in for a mighty would make up one of the greatest symphonies.

VICISU 14 VICISU 15 BY ABEER JAVAID, PAKISTAN

Discovering Myself

We claim to live in a more informed and a much civilized world today. While sometimes we accredit this shift to the phenomena of glo- balization, other times simply to the widespread use of Internet. Though such technology has definitely benefited human life it seems that it has been exploited more. We are given a distorted view of how alien another religion or way of living is. We can just give us facts but not the prudence behind those facts. We rely on what is told to us by sensationalized media one erroneous view of Islam does not incrimi- but only a simple old-fashioned human-en- each other firstly as a human being and not or by a Government more often having ulterior nate the followers or the religion itself. I was counter could provide was the very essence of only as Muslim, Christians, Asian or African. motives. Man has always been afraid of what surprised to see that Christian students were this summer university. Why bother? Is not an option anymore. Dif- he doesn’t understand and misunderstanding receptive and even knew a lot about Islam than For three magical weeks I experienced 17 ference however, small is never insignificant we coupled with lack of communication has been I knew about Christianity. different cultures and 17 different countries. have to be that star-fish clinging little girl at the exploited and used time and again to make na- It was heart-warming to see that almost all Looking back, it feels like a mini-trip around beach. “I may not be able to save all of them but tions fight and detest each other. christen students always signed up for the the world or like what my friend Marsha from I made a difference in the life of this one and What this generation lacks is communication Islamic tutorial. The need to understand, speak Philadelphia said it felt like a mini-life away another one or two more maybe” she said. and human-encounter. And not just any com- and listen became paramount. Sometimes from our normal life! This summer-university taught me that despite munication but an open and un-biased encounter. the discussions would run in wee hours of the We laughed, danced, ate, lived, shared, sang, all our differences, disputes and history we can This of course is not an easy task as centuries of morning. My favorite part was perhaps the watched football final and even argued some- if, we honestly try co-exist peacefully. distrust and bigotry has widened the communica- debates we had in class. I discovered that I can- times, though a walk in evening would sort It’s about time we stop playing victim or a silent tion-gap. Sadly, it is a reality that if (ever) we come was a most befitting neutral ground for an communicate was perhaps what touched me not point at someone for discriminating against everything out. I became friends with people bystander. All the bonds and friendships I to any sort of peace-making or understanding inter-faith dialogue. most about this experience. something about my way of life that he doesn’t so unlike me in so many ways and yet at same formed in this summer-university left imprints dialogue, at best we might come in peace but we Then I met students, more than 40 of them I come from a land where people is extremely understand when I am doing the very same time we connected at so many levels. on me and I learned something extraordinary come with mistrust along with our historical and and belonging to around 17 countries. Each sensitive about their religion. We took our thing concerning his way of life. We found out that our way of life may be differ- from each individual student or teacher alike. emotional baggage. had a distinctive style, accent and culture. independence from the British in 1947 in the I discovered that stereotyping and labeling goes ent but the root of our religions is same and the In discovering others I think that I discovered In this context Vienna-International Summer Countries that were only names before to me, name of religion and established an Islamic both ways. I discovered that the need of hour message of both our religions very clear; Peace myself instead. Christian-Islamic university was for me a rev- now had faces. Initially I was a little over- Republic. Since then my country has been was tolerance and understanding, if not en- and justice for humanity. Prophet Muhammad elation. For starters I have never seen inside of whelmed. I thought ‘how am I ever going to in international media’s limelight for all the dorsement of another person’s belief, life-choices (P.B.U.H) and Jesus Christ (SAW) came when a monastery let alone live in one. The beauty interact with all of them in just three-weeks’? wrong reasons the more recent being my coun- and ideas. I discovered that the thing most social unjust had crossed all boundaries and val- of Stiftung caught me off-guard and every- All my apprehensions melted away the second try’s link with terrorism and our role in war worthwhile to know and read is which chal- ues of humanity were trampled. Both brought day for the next three-weeks I discovered yet day when I could recall most names without on terrorism. A war chiefly linked with radical lenges one’s convictions. But most importantly, a message of Justice, Peace and Humanity. another enchanting new part of it. A Christian- their name-tags and many knew mine without view of religion Islam. I discovered that bigotry murders religion. We need to tap within ourselves and find the monastery, but primarily a house of worships, eyeing my name-tag. This effort to know and For me this was an opportunity to explain how The factor of human-ness that no technology human that exists within us and we need to see

VICISU 16 VICISU 17 BY VIVIAN REYES, AUSTRIA

Community in diversity A theological view or briefly:

sity, it seemed that many of us felt like that), TA’ARUF because this complexity of diversity is some- thing given from God. It is so complex as God Himself. Hence it is not our task to reduce this diversity to a common ground, until differences disappears and we can understand; first it is not possible and second regarding the diversity in People say: The West and the East cannot go our own personality, believing that God wanted together. Well, she calls herself a UK-Muslim. us to be like that and relating to the being of A professor was a Palestinian Arab, Israeli God, of whom we believe that He is incompre- “Diversity” and “pluralism” seem to be mod- citizen and a Christian. People say: Arabs and hensible because of His divine complexity, which ern and fashionably words of nowadays. If you Israelis are antipodes. Well, he was both. includes His diversity, we can also believe that a know much about different cultures, you travel The crucial point is not to say you are either pluralistic world is something wanted by God. Truly, this was my experience at this VICISU: a lot and have friends from all over the world, Western or a Muslim or I am an Israeli citizen, Our religions show us that diversity can and the members were not only coming from coun- you are following the trend. All these things are but a Christian. No: you are Western and shall be united, because God unites them in His tries all over the world and were just Christian extraordinary, but that is the point: it should a Muslim and I am an Israeli citizen and a being - Christians believe in Trinity, Muslims or Muslims; we were Catholics, Protestants, not be anything special anymore, because Christian. have 99 names for Allah; God is only one. Sunnis, Shia, conservatives, liberals, European, pluralism is not an exception in our world, nor A question arises here: So the previously raised questions can be Asian, African, South-American, North- just a trend. Pluralism is a reality, especially in 1. How is this “and” between differences answered now: it is God, who makes this “and” American, Australian, men, women, students countries like the USA or Canada and also in possible? Because we cannot deny that they do between differences possible, creating us human of theology, law, philosophy, talented in music, Europe. The idea of a homogeneous society, are differences and as said before, diversity is beings, giving us this “mystery of diversity” and talented in sports, covered, uncovered, mass- this illusion should be left behind – it is high reality. This leads to the other question: a way to handle it: the dialogue. attendant, not mass-attendant, etc … time now. 2. Why do we have a dialogue between Therefore having a dialogue, also an interreli- Yes, we were and are all this diversity and in Even ourselves, our personality is diverse and Christians and Muslims? gious one is our obligation, to learn to under- this diversity it was possible to play football as we have to manage to handle that, so why We are different and will remain different and stand each other and so to can live together. judge of the peoples; give a decision for me, O not manage to get along with each other, using a team, to laugh about the same joke, to sing, should it not be able “outside” of us, in our the aim of a dialogue is not to convert the other On this the Holy Quran says: Lord, because of my righteousness, and let my this excuse for not having to keep on trying to learn and cook together and to ask to pray for interactions with people in our societies and in and to make him as you are. Interreligious “O mankind! We created you from a single virtue have its reward.” (Ps 7,9) understand the other one. each other. the world? dialogue is still seen as something strange and (pair) of male and female and made you into- To have an interreligious dialogue is not easy, It is always easier to ignore the one who is All these little but significant things showed me I myself for example: I am an Austrian citizen, unnecessary. But we always have dialogues, day nations and tribes that ye may know each other. if we think about the fact that we do not different, but this ignorance will not make that you can live together in pluralism, besides brought up in Vienna, born in Brazil with a by day and we often meet people, who have Verily the most honored of you in the sight of even manage to live next to our neighbor or us happy, because it is an illusion that we are the difficulties I do not want to deny. And it mother from Uruguay, a father from Colombia other points of view about politics, life, with Allah is /he who is) the most righteous of you. even family members, without problems, just homogeneous. But we are all equal before God. was not only such named activities, it was the and grandparents from Poland. People say: different tastes and ways of believing than us. And Allah has full knowledge and is well ac- because they have different points of view and And if we believe that He created us with love, general spirit I could feel. The spirit of a real Latin-America and Europe are totally the op- Even in our own religion we do not believe quainted (with all things).” (Q: 49 Hujurat, 13). ways of life. How can we manage then to have wanting the best for us, giving us the world strong community in diversity. posite from each other. Well, I sometimes feel exactly the same. This complexity of diversity We shall not judge the “other ones” just from an interreligious dialogue, also on a theological not to rule over it, but to care after it, trying to like a European Latina. My friend who also should not discourage us, thinking that we will our perspective; the Bible often tells us that the and ethical level? make it better day by day, then we can also be participated in the VICISU was born and grew never find a common ground (sometimes after only one who has the right to judge and will To me it seems that society often takes cultural sure, that he will accompany us in our way of up in the UK and her roots are in Bangladesh. some discussions during the Summer Univer- judge is God in His justice: “The Lord will be or religious differences as reason why people do interreligious dialogue.

VICISU 18 VICISU 19 BY RUFSANA BEGUM, UNITED KINGDOM Platform 4 Peace

Dialogue

is the Heart most shocking. Here it is: the events, I would say we bonded in a way that Ahmed is escorting Aisha to his house. Inside we otherwise would not have. It was a night that there are waiting three beautiful ladies: Muna, produced many great friendships. We threw away of Peace Lamees and I. the preconceived notions we had had of each Ahmed: Here you are home. other, we rejected the stereotypes that dominate Aisha: (She points to us) Are these my three servants? mainstream society, and we found in that place a Ahmed: No wife, these are my first three wives... deeply rooted friendship and the awareness that (Aisha faints) we all are just human beings, regardless of faith One of the greatest obstacles to peace and Exit or culture. This is the idea in which the Qur’anic international security is lack of communication. concept of Ta’aruf is rooted: that we all are one Modern society has become fragmented, based priests, imams, and all people the power to create TA’ARUF and the same. on exclusion rather than inclusivity—arguably, as dialogue with each other on neutral ground, to It is important to note that not just the organised a result of lack of dialogue. Consequently, what become collaborators for peace. less of race, religion, or culture. It was amazing to events promoted creative dialogue and cemented THE IMPORTANCE OF VICISU violent, oppressed or old-fashioned. It was incred- we are witnessing is a polarization of religious see such great talent—singing, dancing, and theat- our friendships but also our own spontaneous What I want to convey in this article is that ible to see how many people held such beliefs due groups today, where Islam is coming to be seen CREATIVE DIALOGUE rical performances! In fact, I myself took part in a adventures, in which we saw people as they really dialogue is not necessarily about sitting down in to images shown in society. This may explain the as the ‘other’ in society. Instead of engaging in What I found so surprising and amazing about parody of Islamic and Christian marriages. Here were and not as society portrayed them. One a room around a table and discussing serious or rising rates of Islamophobia around the Western talks about our differences, we tend to superfi- the Vienna dialogue initiative was that what are some scenes from the play: of those spontaneous adventures is called ‘The controversial issues; successful dialogue does not World; this is evident in the ban on burkas and in cially gloss over them. For peaceful coexistence brought us together were not the overwhelming Lakeside Story.’ have to occur in a structured atmosphere. The the banning of minarets in some European States. in a multicultural society, dialogue is central, as issues dominating society and media today but, AN ARRANGED MARRIAGE This is a story of survival, in which eight brave VICISU created the potential for a successful dia- Some can argue that we are seeing what Bernard it is through dialogue that we create ideas and in actual fact, the everyday discussions we had Dominic plays Ahmed, the Muslim groom, and courageous friends from the VICISU take a logue, which we utilised in all manners: through Lewis described as ‘The clash of Civilizations,’ solutions and learn acceptance rather than just between friends. The lack of rigid constraints and a shy heart surgeon walk in the night. This, to me, was the most hilari- a talent show, through a multicultural dinner, and in this case, of the West and Islam. However, I tolerance. Religious and cultural diversity is our formality meant we could speak about anything Rufsana plays the strict dad who loves his daughter ous event that occurred during the programme. through our own personal experiences. This is would disagree with this statement as I am a Brit- reality. Thus VICISU seeks to engage in interreli- and everything. Consequently, it was not what Melanie plays Aisha, the Muslim bride There were so many moments where I wondered the way we can achieve a lasting effect in a civil ish citizen, born and bred in England—yet I am gious dialogue that promotes a platform for peace. took place in the classroom that was most impor- The following scenes are called: if I’d gone insane, it was almost unbelievable. But society; this is what holds the potential for change. a Muslim. There is no contradiction or conflict Dialogue is the key to empowerment; through tant but what occurred outside of it. For example, “The marriage contract”. the 18th of July has become a monumental day Without a strong foundation, long-lasting religious in my identity. I am a Westerner and a Muslim. communication we can discuss our own interpre- we all joined together and watched the World Dad: Can you afford this lifestyle for my daughter, for Matthew, Barbara, Dominik Hassan, Lamees, peace is impossible. This is why the VICISU’s The VICISU has proven to me that, rather than a tations rather than rely on bias and prejudice. Cup matches, celebrating wins and expressing dis- son? (He points around his huge luxurious house) Muna, Vivian and me. As the proverb goes, ‘bottom-up peace approach’ is very important ‘clash of civilizations,’ we can produce what I call This is essentially what VICISU was about: 46 appointment. There was no awkwardness; rather, Dominic: I believe I can buy a house half the size... “Desperate times call for desperate measures.” for achieving results. Through this programme a ‘joining of civilizations.’ students coming together and creating a platform the more we spoke and expressed our differences Dad: Well then perhaps you can only have half At around eight o’clock at Altenburg, Matthew we were able to illuminate many controversial for peace, for discussion, for dialogue. The the more I felt we could enjoy the similarities we of my daughter! decided he wanted to swim, and thus began the issues that have been kept in shadows or shown CONCLUDING THOUGHTS questions are, though: How important are these had between us. Hence we were able to convey Dominic: Umm well, I would prefer the bottom search for the American dream. Almost four hours by the media in a negative light. For example, This was, perhaps, one of the most valuable expe- discussions between ordinary people? How much to each other the normality of our own realities, half... we spent overcoming huge obstacles and managed it has become quite common to hear the words riences in my life so far and definitely one of the influence and power do they actually have? I what we saw as normal for us. Dad: Are you a religious man, Ahmed? to survive. Yet, let me stress, it is not Matthew’s “Islam” and “terrorism” together in the media. most significant. I was able to create great friends would argue that it is civil society that holds the This sense of informality in the interaction al- Ahmed: Yes I am need for a swim that I wish to emphasize but that This automatically tends to lead to the conclu- from different corners of the Earth and at the potential for change. It is we who have the power lowed us to promote creative dialogue, which can Dad: So tell me why is there a cross hanging in the all eight of us, who two weeks before had had no sion in people’s minds that Islam is a violent and same time to create a network of peace through to change the future for the better. And that is be seen in an idea by Albert from Austria, who corner? idea the others even existed, suddenly came to antiquated religion and needs to be “ushered into academic contacts that I can use later in life. I exactly what VICISU intended to do: it sought to proposed having a talent show. We saw groups Ahmed: Sir, this is your house. rely on each other in such a fundamental manner. the 21st century.” In this programme I was able to loved every minute of it and will definitely keep in create an atmosphere that gave students, scholars, coming together and helping each other regard- To be honest the ending scene was probably the It actually amazed me then, and now, recalling discuss out loud these perceptions of Muslims as touch with many of the VICISU members.

VICISU 20 VICISU 21 BY MICHAELA NEULINGER, AUSTRIA

Towards an Interreligious theology of salvation?

or political peace. On the other hand, religions Qur’an. During the VICISU we heard about theology of salvation is. must not withdraw from public life and from Surah 3:85 which some interpret in the way For now, however, until we find this theory, we encounters with “the other” and turn into that everyone who does not accept Islam is lost. need to agree on some basic points. These may reclusive sects. Consequently, the only way to And then there is Surah 2:62 which says that be found in the theology of creation and the achieve sustainable peaceful coexistence is to Jews, Christians, and Sabeans have “nothing belief in the Almighty. God’s love for His crea- integrate “the other,” at least in a neutral way, to fear or to regret.” Which of these seemingly tion goes beyond our reason and our hearts. into our own theological systems. Can we, as contradictory passages now shows us God’s As human beings, we need to accept the gap faithful Christians or Muslims, accept different will? How can, how shall we interpret our Holy between God and humankind. He is the only approaches to worshipping God and to living Scriptures? one who can decide upon salvation at the end His commandments? Can we think of salvation During the VICISU we heard many different of days. If God is the one who created all, as in different ways, not just in our own? interpretations of sacred texts—the range ex- we believe, then our only duty on Earth is to Through encounters at the VICISU, I got to tends from exclusivist to inclusivist to pluralist care for this creation—and particularly for our know a lot of people who are devotedly seeking ways of interpretation. Theories of salvation neighbor. If we need criteria for judging in this God and trying to live their faith in daily life. are at the core of interreligious dialogue, and world, then it can only be the criteria of love The need for interreligious dialogue in to- for us to agree on universal values without into discussions as Muslims or as Christians, Can we, as simple human beings, judge other working them out is the most difficult task, as and life: loving our neighbors without precondi- day’s world is obvious. But is it really necessary bearing in mind our religious traditions. and a certain theological attitude, informed people’s way of seeking God? From where do they need to serve two masters. On the one tions, protecting and ensuring life under all cir- to hold this dialogue on a theological level? Yet, to have interreligious dialogue, we need by our religious backgrounds, comes into we take our criteria? In both our traditions, we hand, such a theory needs to fit into its own re- cumstances. If we can include these two criteria Wouldn’t it simply be enough to come to an not only to consider but to re-consider our play when people from different faiths discuss have a lot of texts that could offer some guid- ligious system and must not contradict its own into our theological systems, we probably have agreement on some moral values and to live theological standpoints. It is not enough to poverty, women’s rights, or the role of religion ance. Genesis 1, which describes the creation mature religious tradition; on the other hand, it some basis for peaceful coexistence. next to each other peacefully? There’ve been speak of social rights, of church law, of the in the State. It is this attitude that has to be of the world, or Genesis 9, which tells us about needs to find ways to incorporate a possibility The few thoughts presented in this article are many attempts recently to define interreligious relationship between state and religion, or of reconsidered. God’s covenant with Noah, could serve as of salvation in other traditions without falling just a very preliminary step toward a long way dialogue primarily through a “dialogue of life”. gender from the viewpoint of social and even Religion is an integral part of human life. examples for God’s will for universal salvation. into inclusivism. This is a very challenging of deep reading and thinking—and, hopefully, Particularly, the question of human rights plays natural sciences. Some of our heated discus- We cannot demand that any religious person, Yet there are also verses that speak of the one task, but it has to be done. The three weeks toward a lot of fruitful intercultural and inter- a very important role in that context, and there sions during the VICISU 2010 have shown that Muslim, Christian, or any other, neglects his chosen people, while the rest will be eliminated. of living and discussing together in Altenburg religious encounters that enrich our discussions seems to exist an assumption that it is possible this approach is too superficial. People move or her religion in public for the sake of social The same phenomenon can be observed in the have shown me how essential an interreligious and, even more so, our lives.

VICISU 22 VICISU 23 BY LERAP ZOULIATOU, CAMEROON

About dialogue

and coming together

an atmosphere of community, solidarity, and something I had never thought could happen. Moroccan, a Romanian. All in all, I was living God bless him, as well as Katharina Albrecht- L’Allah hamdullil lah (Thank God), how happiness. We shared the same meals, went to I felt close to God. That is where I understood in perfect harmony with brothers and sisters of Stadler, who succeeded in putting everyone in a could I have ever imagined meeting, talking, studies together, participated in tutorials, played that we all are one, created by the same God, diverse origins. good mood. I also want to thank all the lectur- discussing, sharing opinions with students, later I met Esma, a student from Turkey, who football together—men and women, Christians regardless of our religious differences and The idea of organizing VICISU does not ers for their interesting and instructive courses male and female, of different countries and received me with a smile and embraced me and Muslims—played billiards and lawn ten- our social status. This was similar to when we seem to be in vain if we are expecting a future and the whole community of the Monastery religious backgrounds? as the father did his prodigal son. In the same nis, sang and danced, watched the World Cup attended the prayer at Stift Melk and dur- free of ethnic and religious conflicts, terrorism, for their warm welcome and for being open to On the day my participation at the VICISU lovely way I was welcomed by Barbara and the matches and shared knowledge, not to mention ing a Muslim Friday prayer, where everyone gender discrimination, and so on. everyone. I wish and hope that more students 2010 was confirmed, something that had been others. This left me with a feeling of being in the intercultural meal, which was a pure repre- was present: both Christians and Muslims, I wish to address my sincere gratitude to from Sub-Saharan Africa be invited to attend just a dream before became reality—a marve- a family—and, above all, at home. During the sentation of many of our world cultures. professors and students. Everyone took part Professor Okalla for all the attention he paid the upcoming VICISU’s. lous experience of encounter and dialogue. welcome reception, I encountered professors, VICISU 2010 was the world in miniature. in the prayer, and I witnessed then and there me during the summer school. Let the almighty Before leaving Cameroon, I had received the students, and the community of the Mon- For me, these three weeks felt like three years, a remarkable coining of a symbol of unity, program of all the activities which would take astery. I thought, I will never be able to call since I learned and heard a lot and now have an image of a united world, a future full of place during our stay at Altenburg, but I was everyone by his or her name and even to get a better conception of life. I took a course in love and tolerance, without discrimination or far from certain that everything was going to into dialogue. But from the first week I knew law. Despite the fact that Cameroon is a secular violence. move smoothly. Unbelievably, miracles began each person by name and began learning a few state where there is a diversity of religions, I The fact that I interacted with all these people WE ALL ARE ONE, to happen immediately when I reached the words in Indonesian, Malay, Dutch, Roma- had never attended a course in theology, but and that we discussed all kinds of issues from airport in Vienna, as I came into contact with nian, and Albanian. This was incredible. thanks to my sojourn in Altenburg, through the a cultural and from a religious perspective CREATED BY THE SAME GOD, Marsha from the United States of America, a Stift Altenburg is a marvelous place, charac- various lessons based on religion and religious permitted me to grasp the importance of kind of encounter that exceeded my imagina- terized by peace, undeniable tranquility, and diversity, I could better comprehend other dialogue, an essential factor in understand- REGARDLESS OF OUR tion. As if we were long-lost friends, we started admirable scenery. I had never seen such a religions, different from my own. ing, studying, and respecting each person in discussing a wide range of issues, beginning beautiful place before. Every morning, the I cannot keep myself from talking about the order to better distinguish certain aspects of with our homelands. Upon arrival at the mon- sounds of the bells signaled the beginning of a Mass I attended at Altenburg. I had never social reality. All this happened in a sincere RELIGIOUS DIFFERENCES AND astery, Christine Föger, an Austrian student, new day. Opening the door, one could perceive been inside a church before; it was my maiden and honest environment. At the end of my welcomed me with a hug. It was as if we had nothing but pure, fresh, rejuvenating air. Dur- experience. It was really unbelievable, as I had stay in Austria, I felt as a Cameroonian, an OUR SOCIAL STATUS known each other for a while. A few minutes ing the three weeks, everything happened in the same sensation as if I were in a Mosque— Indonesian, a Malay, a Turkish, a Pakistani, a

VICISU 24 VICISU 25 BY MUNA ABDULKADIR, SAUDI ARABIA AND DOMINIK GNIRS, GERMANY Encountering Disagreements: Muna Alamer and Dominik Gnirs are entering a discussion The art of about discussing

The Trinity, ethics, hijab (headscarf and veil), secularism, the role of women in society, po- religion lygamy, and other issues kept bothering us and even led to harsh words once in a while. Dominik: I was astonished to find here Muslim women partly defending polygamy, arranged marriage, and the hijab. It was difficult to learn that what we see as restrictions, they see what he’d said, but a part of me wanted him of disagreement, but what was more fun is that did it so that a Muslim presented the Christian mon sentences during our heated discussions. as rights and as aspects of the social roles they to feel what it was like to be “the other” who is he knew I would immediately raise my hand to points and a Christian presented the Muslim Although we come from two different faiths, we also want to play. On the one hand, I can still always being attacked and misunderstood. respond. I must say that sometimes I felt tired points on the flipchart. It’s such a challenge to managed somehow to look beyond our differ- not get it through my head that a limitation Dialogue doesn’t mean fighting out opinions of explaining how we as Muslims were differ- portray the other from one’s own point of view ences in a way that already allowed for accept- could be something good. On the other hand, until one party wins. “The primary purpose ent and therefore had different understanding but in such a way that the other agrees! How to Christians and Muslims are different? ance of our differences and already pointed out long stories about how people really experience of dialogue is to learn, that is, to change and of freedom and human rights, but nothing express what one knows about the other, with- Duh, sure! what’s good in the other’s opinion. these different practices in real life made me see grow...” (Swidler, 2003), an often quoted line was more challenging for me to explain than out speculation, without prejudices, without Westerners and Arabs? Definitely. Dominik: I am a Catholic Christian, and I advantages in their different way. But when it in our course. For us, that meant to grow in women’s rights in Islam and why women don’t putting it in a way of which one of us would Yet, when we got to know each other in Alten- share most values with my church. And here, came to secularism, I could only find common respect for one another’s opinions, to change drive cars in Saudi Arabia. not approve? I promised myself, whenever I burg, we were surprised that we have a lot in wow, I realized, Muslims do too. For example, ground with the Turkish people… surprise, the perception of the other. Mutually, we thus Dominik: Whenever I made a controversial talk about Islam, to try to do it as if in that situ- common. It’s because “the other” is sometimes I am against abortion; Muslims are too. Catho- surprise. came to see the good and bad points in our statement in class, I gave Muna “the look,” ation. To imagine having my Muslim friends not different at all when you look at the faith lics emphasize that doing good deeds in this life Muna: “I think the veil is dangerous” was one own religions and in the other. This reflection saying with my eyes, “Come on, contradict, say there, looking at me as I was trying to find the we share in one God who created the world is crucial for salvation; Muslims do too. The of the first things I heard Dominik say during also helped us to understand our own religions something! Let’s not just agree on the com- right words to portray their religion in a way or when you look at our core values. Talking monks in our monasteries have a compulsory the “Introduction to Islam” class. It was impor- better, to see their depth and value, and at mon points and evade the others.” I wanted that put it right for them and for me. And that’s about “others” more different from us—like prayer five times a day (up to 7 times). Muna tant for me to understand why anyone would the same time to realize human practices and us to have serious and controversial dialogue, I why the best compliment I got this week was those who don’t believe in God at all or and father Michael even had similar long black think like that. But I told myself, well, I still views of religions that need to be criticized and wanted to come to understand why things are when Muna told me, “I hate to admit it, but fundamentalists in both religions—is when we robes for our “Garden of Religions” tour. After have the other 45 students to have a dialogue improved. the way they are and to explain how it works you’re more like a friend now.” realized that many Christians have more things all, we are so similar in so many ways that it’s with. His desperate attempts at explaining that Muna: I used to express my opinions and who in our part of the world and what it is really to in common with many Muslims than with hard to believe Christians and Muslims are he didn’t mean what he’d said didn’t stop me I am as a Muslim girl coming from Saudi be criticized from both points of views. Now Sources: Swidler, Leonard, The Dialogue De- some fundamentalists in Christianity, and vice fighting each other in some parts of the world. from being sarcastic about his statement. I used Arabia, and most of the time our conversations I feel grateful for each person who took his calogue, Journal of Ecumenical Studies, 1984 versa. We rather concluded that belief in one Still, after discovering common ground, we to make fun of him, joking that he should run ended up in agreement that being different or her time to explain to me the Muslim way, – Revised 2003 God transcends borders instead of bringing us found more and more controversial topics for his life because I might be hiding a bomb doesn’t necessarily mean that we are against to discuss issues with me and to talk with me to judge and exclude others. popping up, and now it was quite surprising to under my hijab, and I kept repeating that each other. Well, sometimes professors used even after we totally disagreed on a certain Muna: “Thank you, that is exactly what I was notice quarrels and disagreements leading to whenever we saw some Muslim women in the to make statements against which I knew point. Once, in a tutorial, we had to present trying to say.” This was one of the most com- some cracks in the so-far prevailing harmony. streets of Vienna. I knew that he didn’t mean Dominik would raise his hand just for the sake the differences between our religions, and we

VICISU 26 VICISU 27 BY LAMIS ALMUFTI, SAUDI ARABIA Western individual could perceive the Indian Sari and its traditions as backward. Or, to my surprise, some perceived me and other women wearing veils as oppressed even though I wore it as a sign of freedom.

Article 19 has to be understood in relation to article 18. The term “freedom of expression”, at first sight, is equal to the “right to speak Freedom freely”. This is true, but there is more than that. of Expression

Muna Alamer: “Human Rights” Azralij: “Hijab, Mosque” Matthew Lehnert: “The beauty of difference” Marsha: “Art and speech” Nadine Mojadidi: “Hate speech” Jenny Bauer: “no fear or no reprisals” Esma Oger: “freedom to speak, no limitation, democratic rights...” Orhan Jasic: “Truth” Rufsana Begum: “Democracy and diversity of views” Abeer Javaid: “To speak up your mind but not question is: When does your freedom stop? If for degrading or insulting anyone” it’s called freedom, why is it limited? How do Albert Wirthensohn: “Saying what I want” we define freedom when it differs between each Cornelia: “Media” and every single person? Zainab Ranjha: “Exploited liberty” We are accountable for what we do and we are Yuyun Sri Wahyuni: “Articulating self rights held responsible. For instance, as Muslims, we with others” see it as forbidden to manipulate God or the Christine Foeger: “basic (human) right” Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him) by jokes, caricature or stories. Yet, the Danish car- In conclusion, freedom of expression cannot be toons by using the flag of “freedom of expres- taken literally in the sense of only a “right to sion” showed caricatures about the Prophet. speak”. It is necessary to know also the conse- On the other hand, in Austria, a right-wing quences and the limits. Nevertheless, what mat- writer denied the holocaust and was prosecut- It also includes the right to access, receive and I believe that politics play a critical role in this ters is not merely the freedom to express one’s free·dom As human beings, we tend to dwell on looking ed. The crime is punishable by up to ten years impart information and ideas. I believe that the regard. Each State wants to promote ideas that thoughts, but a free state of mind in terms of 1. The condition of being free of restraints. for things we cannot have. However, the con- in prison. To some people these two cases are source of good information and knowledge is support it. Even the most democratic State do conscience, thought, belief, and ideology. This 2. Liberty of the person from slavery, detention, or cept of freedom varies widely between nations, both examples of various interpretations of the what makes you hold onto good ideas. It is not that one way or the other, especially when they distinguishes one person from another; for their oppression. countries and even people. Some view duties freedom of expression. just about expressing your thoughts and mak- are threatened by a foreign power. development it is important to gain knowledge as freedom while others see their rights as free- Maybe life would be easier if we knew that ing them out in the public, but also processing through different media. dom. Yet, nothing stands alone in this world, we aren’t born to be free, or at least not all the them through information that should be avail- I asked some of my VICISU friends to tell me This article deals with two provisions of the and a right includes also a responsibility and a time. Take Adam and Eve for example. God able to all through the media, the internet and what is the first thing that comes to their minds Universal Declaration of Human Rights: duty. One should consider many things before created them the first two human beings and satellite communication when they hear “Freedom of Expression”: Article 18 which provides that “[e]veryone has evoking freedom. He told them not to eat from a specific tree. If Nonetheless, censorship in newspapers and mag- Sholahuddin Uddin: “Demonstration, walking the right to freedom of thought, conscience On the other hand, the word freedom can be our mother and father weren’t absolutely free, azines is another form of limiting freedom of on the street.” and religion; […]” and Article 19 according to interpreted by oppressed people who aren’t what makes us think we should be? expression. But should bad media be available to Ashrul Amahl: “people have the rights to do, which “[e]veryone has the right to the freedom allowed to express what they are feeling, and Furthermore, freedom maybe defined by every everyone? Perhaps we should bear in mind that speak, listen, etc to whatever they want without of opinion and expression; […]” this is why the concept was introduced. The single individual in a different way. . Hence, a not every citizen is an educated person. anyone stopping them...”

VICISU 28 VICISU 29 BY DIAN MAYA SAFITRI, INDONESIA Someday many years from now We’ll sit beside the candles glow Exchanging tales about our past And laughing as the memories flow ...And when that distant day arrives I know it will be understood That friendship is the key to life And we were friends and it was good. (Eileen Hehl, as cited by Fatemeh Taromirad) When in

Austria: among tolerance, romance, and waltz dance

The gothic, old, mysterious buildings, from first encounter with one of the well-known understanding of the religious Other. Good newspapers, which covered “westernophobia” Stift Altenburg to the University of Vienna, European “royal” dances. However, my “global knowledge about other religious communities too often. And maybe I had listened to wrong from Rosenburg to Schönbrunn palace, which cultural expedition” did not stop there. I also triggers strong friendships, profound friendship information about the old-fashioned myth of are keeping alive the romance of the past got to know the heroic Kazakh song, the gives naissance to love, and love, finally, can the “Clash of Civilizations.” within the time of modernity. Every time I enchanting European classical piano, the fasci- blossom into what ethical human beings call Regardless, now that I was here in person, close my eyes, I can still hear the harmony of nating Romanian song, the touching Austrian “peace,” which will then guide us to the brand I will always remember... all of my a priori prejudices were suddenly Stephansdom’s bell, which woke me up that local song, and the joyful Arabic dance. I tasted new civilization of eternal ahimsa, a state of My first experience in Austria this hot, dry gone, replaced by respect and appreciation for morning, ringing for Sunday Mass. I can still yummy international food from Italian pizza perfect non-violence. If this dream comes true summer. It is the first European country I’ve the tolerant Austrians. Here, in this small, well- feel the crowd in Vienna’s streets with unpro- to Austrian apple strudel, from Malay Nasi one day, we will be able to live hand in hand to ever visited. At first, as a veiling woman, I organized, and beautiful country, I witnessed nounceable names and the touch of stone at Lemak to Judith’s birthday cake. I still have to make a better future where there are no more was surprised by the multiculturalism in this the friendship and wonderful smiles of its Austrians of today have internalized the con- the splendid Melk Abbey, a piece of the world’s mention the great Traubensaft and Apfelsaft, prejudices, hatred, conflict, war, or frighten- “Mozart” country. My admiration began with people. I also saw the colorful faces, cultures, cept of religious pluralism very well. No won- heritage. I can still taste the famous Manner made in Stift Altenburg’s kitchen, which always ing terrorism in the name of “God.” Indeed, the passport check at the Vienna International languages, and religions, especially Islam, on der, here I could see women wearing Burqa chocolates that will make you feel “head over seduced my throat and tongue to dance tango this three-week summer is priceless to me, and Airport, which was so easy that it did not even the paved streets of Vienna, elegantly interwo- who enjoyed an amusement park like everyone heels.” I can still see the eccentric artists in the at meal time. I am grateful for having been chosen for this take more than ten minutes. Before coming to ven with Austria’s national identity. I will never else. I also saw Austrian Sikhs holding a parade city center dressing up as if they were in the More than that, thanks to this VICISU pro- VICISU 2010 program. Austria, I thought that the immigration office forget the waving hands of some Austrians, in Vienna without any difficulties. Amazing! Victorian age. I am still full from a three-euro gram, I had the chance to attend my first ever I think, if Shakespeare came up to me today would maybe interrogate me rudely and accuse followed by a warm, magic word, “Hello!” In addition, I was fascinated by the way the kebab that is too big for a slim Indonesian like wonderful Catholic Mass. This program ena- and asked me, “What’s in a name?”, I would me of carrying a “hidden lethal weapon” un- Later, during my stay in Austria, I learned that Austrians treat “foreigners” as they would treat me. And I can still laugh at the words on a shirt bled me to experience my first three-continent answer, “Austria is a meaningful name because der my veil. I also imagined that the passport this tolerance had lasted since the time when other citizens: the priests in the churches of in a souvenir shop: No Kangaroos in Austria. Jumat prayer at Stift Altenburg. I could discuss from it I get endless reminiscence that takes me check would take more than two hours because Bosnia became part of the Habsburg Mon- Stift Altenburg and Melk prayed for Muslims, I will always remember... Christianity with different types of practition- on a journey of magnificent friendship, affec- of my nationality. I thought that Austrian archy. Emperor Franz Joseph was hailed as a the owner of Rosenburg castle welcomed the My messy debut Waltz in one of Stift Alten- ers: the Orthodox, Catholics, and Protestants, tion, and open-mindedness.” Austria, I think people would stare at me with that “what- great example of pluralist ruler after establish- VICISU participants, and some employees at burg’s rooms. I stepped on the feet of my dance including a Mennonite. This meeting was now that I am already in love with you! is-that-alien-strange-veiling-girl-doing-here” ing the first faculty of Islamic theology in Bos- the monastery hugged me. This will always be partner Michaela, though she was teaching enlightening and useful for me because in Indo- look. Maybe I had watched too many Hol- nia. It seems to me, he succeeded in educating part of my great memories. me how to dance gracefully. But I was just so nesia there are only Catholics and Protestants. lywood movies. Maybe I had read the wrong his people to respect religious minorities. The I will always remember... happy and enjoyed it so much! That was my All these amazing activities gave me a better

VICISU 30 VICISU 31 BY ALBERT WIRTHENSON, AUSTRIA

Learning to pray

It is Friday noon of the second week. Since the beginning of the summer university, one room has been specially dedicated to Muslim prayer, and this Friday the Muslims have invit- ed all of us to attend. This is not just looking at our friends, this is not just attending a religious ceremony. No, this is a shift to another form of communication and behavior. Usually, we spend the whole day with each other—studying together, eating together, singing together, joking together—and so we all have gotten to know each other in a very per- sonal and everyday manner. Yet, though I know all the people that are now gathering for this prayer, I don’t know them as I see them now. This is different. Not at all disturbing, as some stereotypes concerning Muslim believers might encourage one to feel. Just different. They all are taking positions facing in the same direction, toward Makkah, and all of and sincere devotion. At this moment, all the developed piece of art that brings together an of exploration, but all through our program I ways. Were they really willing to let their reli- is not just an individual opinion—all of the the women are very extensively covered. One critical questions I’ve mentioned do not exist. ancient Arabic musical tradition with the abso- was becoming aware that Muslim spirituality gion define the timetable of every single day? believers agree. man is leading the prayer, all the others just The pure ceremony and the way in which it is lute concentration of the muezzin. The call of fascinated me. Were they allowing this intervention into their At the time of prayer, nothing in this world collectively respond by uttering a few words. All acted out do not make me feel uncomfortable our classmate prepares the space for the holy On our message board we had a small sheet personal freedom to arrange the day as they matters much. This could be felt and seen espe- of them are making the same movements; they at all—they make me happy and relaxed in a ceremony that follows, and everybody in the that announced prayer times for Muslims: wanted? Then I realized (at certain times, when cially at the Friday prayer I was allowed to at- do it silently, without speaking. And we, their holistic way, and they fill me with inner peace room can feel that immediately. The touching five times a day, with an optional sixth prayer, I was awake) that suddenly all of them were tend. I was deeply impressed by this ceremony, Christian colleagues—we are just sitting next to and calm. and inspiring sound of the adhan will stay in evenly distributed over the whole day and also gone—for example, after lunch. This is when I and I’m sure that it will influence my Christian the wall in an uninvolved way, watching all of The prayer starts with the famous adhan, the my mind for years to come. late at night. At first, this sounded just uncom- learned: “talking to God when I feel like” is not spirituality. In my culture it often seems that this and not understanding the words they use. Islamic call to prayer. One of our colleagues, The VICISU offered an intensive program of fortable and complicated. As God is eternal the only way. Another way is in accepting that praying is a useless relic of former times, before All of this might sound strange and uncomfort- whom we have known since the beginning of lectures and academic talks, but still, I didn’t and all-knowing, I can talk to Him whenever I there is always something more important than the Enlightenment took place. But what my able to critical Western ears. It might sound like the summer university, is performing it. Yes- go there just to stamp more cognitive knowl- want, can’t I? Why is it necessary, then, to have my human life and everything in this world. Muslim friends have shown me is just the op- conformity, like a process of switching off one’s terday he played football with us, and maybe edge onto my mind. No, I was also there in such a strict and formal framework, telling me Everything has to wait at prayer time because posite: praying can still be a strong statement own individual thought and disappearing into a he was the one who fell asleep in the morning order to look for an answer to a question: How when I have to do my prayer? it simply can never be that important. After all, that nothing in this world is as important as our mass collective. Is this not absolute obedience, lecture—but none of that is relevant at the will this intensive encounter with convinced After seeing the prayer schedule, I began to this whole world and we humans are imperma- relationship with God. Muslim practice shows a loss of personal freedom, a statement against moment. In this moment, he seems somehow Muslims affect my Christian spirituality? My wonder about this. The Muslim students were nent, and communicating with the eternal is this in a convincing and impressive way, and emancipation? No, it is not. The atmosphere “out of this world,” singing the holy words attendance at the Friday prayer might have young people like me, similar to me in many obviously more important than anything else. this will give a new impetus to my Christian in the small room is filled with deep peace with devotional intensity. The adhan is a highly been the most touching experience on this path And the form of Muslim prayer shows that this prayers!

VICISU 32 VICISU 33 BY MARIA “MARSHA” KAPLUN, USA

The gift of Altenburg

monastery,” I joked to my friends before leav- ing. “If you don’t hear from me by August, call for reinforcements.” What concerned me was the location’s lack of neutrality. Would non- catholic Christians be comfortable surrounded by Catholic paraphernalia and monks’ robes? Would our Muslim participants in particular feel out of place or under spiritual pressure smiling inhabitants, and most importantly from and endearing Austrian German accent, right When my flight landed at the chaotically among crosses and chapels, waking up every us. It did not matter whether we would stay at before we left, as I was thanking him for every- noisy, crowd-filled Vienna airport, akin to every morning to church bells? a Catholic or Sunni or Mennonite or Shi’ite thing he had done for us, “I am just a gardener, other large airport in the world, I stepped upon I do not presume to speak for everyone, but home. It mattered that we were in a home that yes? And what beautiful roses bloomed in my Austrian ground for the first time. Speaking after three weeks at Altenburg, I came to believe welcomed, where we filled each other with our garden!” As we spoke, “beautiful roses” were no German and not knowing what to expect, I that I’d worried for nothing, and realizing why I own spirituality, where love had been practiced running around the fountain, falling down on knew one thing: I couldn’t wait to see Vienna, shouldn’t have worried became part of one of the and preached, built and grown for ages. the grass, and creating impossible din, and the temple of classical music, the cradle of most profound spiritual experiences of my life. We spent three weeks at Altenburg, and as I was thinking of going back home to my psychoanalysis, the home of great minds of Stift Altenburg’s architecture has been created, time passed, outside of class I heard less and “other” life, which seemed so strange just then philosophy, literature, film… I couldn’t wait preserved, and restored for almost a thousand less conversation about who is right. And I felt and so distant. In this “other” life I teach World to roam the streets that Mozart, Freud, Buber, years by people who call each other “broth- more and more like part of a great and grow- Religions and Interreligious Dialogue, and I Schrödinger, Schubert had tread, to inhale the ers.” Today, it is a breathtaking network of ing “one.” And I abandoned myself to that tell my students that they must learn about the air of gothic and baroque cathedrals filled with marble halls, vaulted ceilings, cozy nooks, laughed. “Wow,” I could only say, “that’s… affected she was by the history and spirituality oneness, happily and with little reservation. Other because understanding is the key and the breath of the ages. This I knew—and all and gated gardens. A lovingly excavated little prominent! If it’s making you uncomfortable, of this place just by watching the way it was af- We prayed together and played ball (well, as the roadway to peace. But I think this year, as this and more I got to do during our unforget- gothic chapel hides at the bottom of a winding I can take it to my room.” To my surprise, she fecting me, by standing next to me in the crypt the old and decrepit member of the group, I one key to understanding, I am going to start table weekend trip to Vienna. staircase, cool and quiet, calling one to touch its looked pensively at it and back at me and shook as I stood before the painting of the crucified watched) and sang songs into the night and with “love.” What I didn’t know was that in the heart of ancient stones and to whisper intimately and to her head. Then she said, “I don’t mind it. He’s Jesus and could hardly hold back tears. laughed. It does not mean our discussions are “Stift” means “gift.” This place and this time, Lower Austria, nestled among its rolling hills feel only peace. And reigning above it all, like a watching over me at night.” Then she smiled. Only then did it occur to me that, as much as over, neither is our diversity. We will probably indeed, were a great gift to me—and, I believe, and sweeping fields there lay another gem, hymn of praise, is our church, soaring toward On another occasion I was giving a tour of Stift Altenburg made this dialogue possible by keep trying to convince each other as to this and to many of us. This place is filled with the much smaller but with its own unique air, with heavens. Tolling bells spilled their song from its the abbey to a friend who arrived later in the its hospitality and enhanced it by its natural and that—many, many things. But how different is breath of God and with the breath of the ages. its own gothic and baroque—the Altenburg tower several times a day, but not once did I see program, and it occurred to me at some point architectural beauty, it made our dialogue much discussion between people who love each other? And it is filled with the breath of Love. And abbey. I didn’t know what expected me a furrowed brow in response. It did not offend. that most of the places I was showing her were, deeper, much faster, much longer lasting by the Between people who’ve been happy together? that, in the end, is all that matters. there. In fact, I was a little worried about our One day, I walked into the room of a Muslim naturally, sites of Catholic worship: a church, a love with which it was filled and which it ex- Between people who have stood together in a Christian-Islamic dialogue taking place at such friend and saw above her bed a crucifix so chapel, a crypt… Only several days after did I uded from every corner, from its ancient walls, sacred place and not cared who had built it? an explicitly Catholic site. “I’ll be trapped in a large that I stepped back, startled, and we both hear her describe to someone else how deeply from its carefully manicured lawns, from its Fr. Michael said to me in his unforgettable

VICISU 34 VICISU 35 BY ERIC GHISLAIN OKALLA, CAMEROON

Memories Of VICISU 2010

The time I spent at Stift Altenburg from the 4th to the 22nd of July, 2010, on the occasion of the Vienna International Christian Islamic Summer University (VICISU) was very nice. Indeed, on Friday the 16th of July, the Islamic prayer was attended by non-Muslims invited by the Muslims. In the same way, on Sunday the 18th, Muslims were invited by Roman Catholic Christians to attend the Holy Mass. Moreover, at the multi-cultural dinner on the 19th, the a play about marriages in different cultures VICISU participants presented various meals (“Islamic Arranged Marriage” vs. “West-Side from about 10 different countries. Story”), and it was astonishing to see a gilrsgirl Personally, I most of all keep in my mind the mastering roles of man and woman. (I am souvenir of the Talent Show, which took place talking about Rufsana Begum, who was born on Saturday evening, 17th of July. The nice in Bangladesh and now lives in the UK.) Of idea was Prof. Ingeborg Gabriel’s. All partici- course, there were dancing performances: from pants had the occasion to show their talents in Palestine with Issa Shaker as the teacher, from singing, dancing, playing the piano, the guitar, Malaysia, Indonesia, and from Cameroon. and the drum, as well as performing a play. I The Cameroon dance, a rhythm called “Bikut- agree with Zsofia Windisch, a participant from si,” was performed by Zouliatou Lerap and Hungary, that it was probably our best evening me, and once we were done, Professor Marboe at Stift Altenburg. from Austria, some monks, and participants like Christine Föger and Melanie Fink from Austria THE TALENT SHOW and Hassan Ali Dilawri from Pakistan began to The show started with the Islamic prayer, join in. It was wonderful to see mixed teams, as directed by our mate Ashrul Amahl from far as religion and nationality were concerned: What a nice picture it was when all of us stood in VICISU lectures and spirit. putting into practice. The same congratulations of us left the room, and this was only because Malaysia, through Arabic songs. Then followed Juliu Gorea from Rumania sang while Albert up and joined hands to sing the famous chorus We discovered many talents around us that are addressed to Albert Wirthenson, our mate we were conscious of the busy schedule of the what was to me one of the greatest surprises of Wirthenson from Austria played the drum; “We are the world”! This song, written by the evening, many skills, and even more amaz- from Austria and my dear friend and room- next day, namely the tour at Melk Abbey and the evening: Professor Irmgard Marboe played the girls from Kazakhstan sang and played the late Michael Jackson and various other artists ing personalities. These were really the skills mate, who succeeded in organizing the Talent the boat trip on the Danube. two nice pieces of classical music on the piano, piano while Maria Ingrid from Indonesia ac- in 1985 to help hungry people in Ethiopia, acquired before VICISU 2010 started, since Show evening and participating in some group I hope a talent show will be organized at the followed by Marsha Kaplun, a participant from companied them on the guitar; the play about touches on many topics discussed during the we didn’t have enough time to rehearse for the performances at the same time. Of course, I forthcoming VICISU’s. In fact, future partici- Russia living in the USA. The way this evening marriage involved Christian and Muslim actors VICISU 2010, such as solidarity, unity in Talent Show. Still, everyone performed so well, have a lot of esteem for all those who per- pants should be informed about this program started was a great sign of interreligious dia- from Germany, Austria, Saudi Arabia, and diversity, and love. “We are all a part of God’s probably, mostly due to the fact that we were to formed during this show after having only short before they arrive at Stift Altenburg so that logue, the main topic of the VICISU. Bangladesh; Barbara Karner, a Christian girl great big family;” “…the world must come to- be the only audience there, to enjoy each other’s periods for rehearsal sessions. It was also very they be better prepared to perform. And so, We witnessed performances of songs from from Austria praised the Lord Jesus Christ with gether as one;” “love is all we need;” “let’s start art with love and with one heart and not to win kind of all of those who attended the Talent in conclusion, let me say, “Hail!” and “Bright Kazakhstan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Romania Zouliatou Lerap, a Muslim girl from Cameroon. giving;” “we make a better day just you and prizes for our performances. There was no stress. Show and made it cheerful and truly joyous. future!” to VICISU in general—and especially (with Father Juliu Gorea, an Orthodox priest), We were really like a family, together, with me”—these are some of the quotes from this I would like to express my congratulations to The floor was free for dancing until late hour, to the Talent Show. and Austria. A few of our actors put together the priests of Stift Altenburg dancing with us. song that relate to the main themes developed Professor Gabriel for this nice idea, one worth and it was midnight at the earliest when the last

VICISU 36 VICISU 37 BY MELANIE FINK, AUSTRIA not at all easy to meet. What you certainly need for it is an idyllic monastery set in a deserted region. Give your actors no chance to mess around in a city, no chance to escape the debates. Watch out for perfect hosts, prefer- ably kind, funny, generous, absolutely adorable monks. You certainly need the kind of students that raise their hands at any statement. Those who always think there is need of debate. Of Altenburg theater course those who question everything. Do not forget about the reconciliators and those who keep the team spirit up. And by no means you must forget about the band of the theater, who can amaze the audience with their joyful, thoughtful or rocking songs. The most impor- conquers tant thing, however, is to make sure that all the actors are at least one thing: open-minded, debate-loving students. The three weeks I could spend with all these amazing people were unforgettable and enrich- the World stage ing for me. Considering that I kind of slipped

Today I was walking along “Brunnenmarkt”, a marketplace in Vienna. For everybody who does not know this area, one thing I can tell you about it is that, walking along this street, it is hard to tell in which country you are feelings of uncertainty amounting at times and who is the minority there. To be hon- even to fear. As we can experience every day est, I always considered myself quite tolerant through conflicts in the whole world, fear can and open-minded towards other cultures and often turn into incomprehension and is often beliefs. However, I also have to admit that it used by others for their own benefits. sometimes actually invokes a strange feeling So if we think of our world as a stage, this is when I walk along “Brunnenmarkt” and pass kind of the setting that everyone, who wants a woman dressed in a long black robe and a to act on it, has to find a way of dealing with. black headscarf. It is completely unreasonable It is precisely because of this setting that many and I do not like admitting it, but this is just people chose to act with two infamous actors in how it is. the starring role, namely stereotype and preju- Today as I walked along “Brunnenmarkt” and dice. These two actors are usually brought into happened to meet a woman dressed in a black being upon information received by others, by robe and a black headscarf, something very the media or just upon instinctual preference. different took place. I laughed out loudly. Why? Whatever way you look at it, they are certainly I had to think of my new Saudi friends, who at not based on reason and in depths personal home also dress in black Abayas and, as I was encounters. As we can see, it is just easier to for acting on the world stage. The Altenburg to respect our differences, much more did I into this, I just felt completely right there. Even told, usually also wear a black headscarf. So this act with those characters, than to engage in the theater, starring 43 enthusiastic, open-minded, start to understand that these differences are at if we might not be able to expel stereotype woman, though looking very different at first search of better solutions. communicative, sparkling students from all over the surface. I discovered that beneath that, we and prejudice from our world stage just yet, let sight, might be just like me and not so different Every one of us, however conscious or uncon- the world. The new actors we decided to invite have much more similarities than differences. them be nothing more than simple extras that at all. Such a thought, as simple as it may be, scious this might be, is somehow influenced by were dialogue and respect. The discomforting feeling of being confronted everyone is aware of, that are there because we that we are all actually very similar and that stereotypes and prejudices that are commonly Our new actors had their first performance in with something unfamiliar turned into a feeling cannot really act without them, that are none- clothes do not tell us as much about people as held in the community we live in. We cannot the course of the premier of Altenburg theater, of joy of the variety that the world holds in theless considered quite superfluous and that we might think, just never came to my mind escape this. Yet, there is something we can do taking place during the three weeks that we all store for us. Hence, it seems like in order to are by no means in the starring role. To put it before. And this made be laugh. about it. However far away a world without spent together in Altenburg. Through dia- loose the fear or unease of the unfamiliar, we in simple words: In order to make our world a I cannot speak for everybody, but at least from prejudices and stereotypes might be, like every logue and respect, day by day we increasingly just have to be ready to make it familiar. And to better one... what I can say, I sometimes feel at unease when long journey, also this one starts with the first gained insight and understanding of previously make something familiar, we have to be open to I am confronted with traditions, religions or step. I think we students from the Vienna unknown cultures. Prejudices and stereotypes get to know each other. LET THE beliefs that are not familiar to me. The very International Summer University, in the search were suddenly blurred by the accounts and derstand the different cultures, traditions and The premier already being such a success ALTENBURG THEATER reason for it is that they are unfamiliar. What of better actors than stereotype and prejudice sparkling personalities of our new friends. In beliefs, the more they gained my respect and might sound to good to be true. Indeed, the CONQUER is unfamiliar can for some people also arouse embarked on this trip. Let me call it a model my personal experience, the more I tried to un- appreciation. Even though I certainly learned preconditions to set up a theater like this are THE WORLD STAGE!

VICISU 38 VICISU 39 BY NADINE MOJADIDI, SAUDI ARABIA

A Thought or Two

offending others. I also prepared my mind and soul to absorb whatever I encountered through listening and contemplation. We were a diverse group, coming from differ- ent areas in the world and possessing differ- ent “narrative identities,” as Professor Okalla As I look at all the photos and videos and would say. We did not just come as nationals think back to the wonderful three weeks I spent from certain countries, we came with unique in Altenburg, I am reminded of a great group backgrounds that we unfolded and narrated as of people with whom I had the pleasure of con- stories. Faith is an integral part of that narra- versing and living, even if only for a short period tive identity. The more we spoke of faith, the of time. A question comes to my mind: How little time to do so. At home, my interactions different have I emerged from this experience? with my Christian friends had never been faith- I sit and reflect upon what I have learned from related. Unfortunately, people rarely bring up this trip. It feels as if I were a first grader trying to the topic of religion in their day-to-day discus- find the moral lessons of a children’s bedtime sto- sions, so the thought of being in a setting where ry. It seems difficult at the beginning, until I come dialogue between religions would be freely, up with the idea of contrasting the thoughts I maturely, and respectfully discussed excited me. had before I entered this program with the ones After having met everyone at the opening I had in mind after it ended—a sort of “before ceremony, I realized I was one of the youngest and after” comparison of my knowledge base, participants in this year’s VICISU program. or a random compilation of a thought or two. A This was an overwhelming feeling and—I self-reflection, maybe. must admit—a bit scary. I thought to myself,

more I was able to understand other beliefs and faith is superior is meant to be at the forefront better to comprehend my own. This I found of any discussion. But this summer I’ve con- refreshing. cluded that faith is greater than that and above Along with our differences, an important fact being used in such a divisive framework. In my binds us: we all are citizens of planet Earth. opinion, it is this way of thinking that widens This may seem obvious to readers, but in our the gap between believers of different faiths day-to-day preoccupations it is often over- and thus leads to the current and never-ending looked. With all our diversity comes a univer- conflicts under the pretext of religion. My sal attribute to our existence: our humanity. point of view is that interfaith dialogue should Humanity is the message of all religions. In the not be about which faith is truer and more Holy Qur’an, a verse reads, “And verily this divine but rather what commonalities we have your nation [human beings] is a single nation.” between our faiths that could be put to use for Before this summer, my knowledge of other What in the world could I possibly offer to this (21:92). In the Holy Bible, a verse reads, “Live the betterment of humankind. spiritual change, one that I had never encoun- ducted with an open mind and mutual respect faiths was rudimentary, limited to the very diverse group of individuals, and what would at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18). In spite of my short stay, the experience I tered before in my life. Being in an environ- for our faiths and for each other. Interfaith dia- basics of other religions. However, I’d been I gain from them? I decided the best approach I realize that people are often afraid of getting gained from this program is immense, and a ment whereby I befriended people from differ- logue allows one to ponder the foundation of brought up by my parents to respect people of was to be open-minded and a good listener, involved in dialogue, specifically interreligious major part of me has grown and developed. ent parts of the world and different religious our existence as believers and our relationship all faiths. I had always been keen on educating to question, to engage, and to hold on to my dialogue. They fear that their faith will be put My heart, my soul, and my mind collaborated beliefs, it dawned upon me that the ultimate with the Creator… whatever you may conceive myself on different religions, though I’d found beliefs and convictions without threatening or to an ultimate test, that a contest as to which on this memorable journey. I feel a refreshing dialogue of all is interfaith dialogue, if con- Him to be.

VICISU 40 VICISU 41 VICISU 42 VICISU 43 SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

Main Funding:

Additional Funding:

ALSO SUPPORTED BY: The Mayor of the City of Vienna, The Austrian Cooperation Bosnia and Herzegovina and private sponsors

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Stift Altenburg for the kind hospitality and the great support

IMPRESSUM Vienna International Christian-Islamic Summer University 2010 phone +43-676-545 76 16 fax +43-1 532 30 97 [email protected] www.vicisu.com

PROJECT DIRECTOR: Prof. Mag. Dr. Irmgard Marboe, Department of European, International and Comparative Law, University of Vienna, Austria

PROJECTORGANISATION: Mag. Katharina Albrecht-Stadler MEA Brand Building GmbH, Vienna www.meabb.com

ART DIRECTION: Collettiva Design, Vienna www.collettiva.com