A symposium set to explore interfaith harmony begins today at Carroll College, wrapping up more than a year's worth of planning and fundraising.

Professor of philosophy Barry Ferst began organizing the conference last November, arranging speakers, securing grants and making final preparations.

The event, which has drawn national interest, begins today at 4 p.m. at Carroll College Campus Center and runs through Friday. The three religions of focus include Judaism, Islam and Catholicism.

"I think it's unique in its grand scale, where you not only have these three faiths represented, but you're also bringing people together to discuss the issues in a setting like this," Ferst said. "The idea behind the whole conference is that we can come together, regardless of our faith."

Ferst, a practicing Jew who teaches a class on Islam at a Catholic university, said Carroll was an ideal setting for an interfaith conference. The school's mission statement, he noted, is based upon inclusiveness.

"In the Carroll mission statement, it says we're ecumenical, that all faiths are welcome on this campus, to live and study together," Ferst said. "That's an amazing kind of statement, and it was part of the inspiration."

Ferst described the event as a multicultural experience complete with speakers, authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, entertainment and music. The goal, he said, is to explore interfaith issues that both youth and adults in America presently face.

"It's what we now call the three Abrahamic faiths, from the word Abraham," Ferst said. "In Judaism and Christianity, you're descended through Abraham and Isaac. In the Islamic faith, Abraham's first born isn't Isaac, but rather, it's Ishmael."

Discussions include "The Face of Female Spirituality" and "Understanding the Right to Faith." Dramatic presentations include "A History of God in Theater" and "Songs of Life: Songs of Joy," performed by the Helena Chamber Singers.

See the schedule below or log on to www.carroll.edu. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 447-4324.

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