Interfaith challenge

Published:
Last updated:
Views: 7
Blueprints

Uniting people from diverse faiths to support a shared humanitarian cause is a powerful way to build understanding, empathy, and solidarity.

This blueprint outlines how to organise an interfaith challenge based on the Trials & Tribulations immersive experience. Participants will journey through three parts of the challenge: The Gathering, Take Flight, and Serious Trials, simulating the physical and emotional struggles of refugees.

Objectives

  • Raise awareness and funds for refugees through a meaningful challenge.
  • Build empathy by engaging participants in activities that mirror refugee experiences.
  • Foster interfaith understanding by bringing together Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and other faith groups for a shared purpose.

The three-part challenge

Part 1: The Gathering

Overview: A morning of reflection, connection, and preparation where participants bond and reflect on the resilience of refugees.

1. Venue and logistics

  • Location: Choose a welcoming space such as a community centre, mosque, church hall, or synagogue. Ensure it accommodates at least 20 people.
  • Time: Begin at 10:00 am to allow participants time for preparation.
  • Permissions: Obtain necessary permissions and check insurance policies.

2. Arrival and setup

  • Dress code: Muslims can wear their abaya and hijab, or other modest clothing reflecting a spiritual gathering. Participants of other faiths are encouraged to dress comfortably and respectfully.
  • What to bring:
    • Rucksack with essentials, including a change of clothes and comfortable shoes.
    • All items sealed in a waterproof bin bag to simulate the need to safeguard belongings.
  • Food contributions: Organise a potluck-style brunch with participants signing up for dishes or drinks in advance via a shared spreadsheet.

3. Activities

  • Opening reflection: Begin with an inspiring talk on the significance of trials and resilience across different faiths. Include scriptural references from the Qur’an, Bible, and Torah.
  • Context setting: Discuss the challenges refugees face, focusing on resilience and hope.

4. Preparing for the journey

  • Pack belongings, tidy the venue, and hold a closing prayer or moment of reflection.

Part 2: Take Flight

Overview: A symbolic walk simulating the uncertainty and endurance of refugee journeys.

1. Planning the route

  • Drop-off point: Arrange transport to a location at least an hour away, with a walking route through countryside or woodland.
  • Navigation: The group leader should pre-plan the route using a navigational app or map.

2. Logistics

  • Transport options:
    • Car share: Coordinate drivers and parking at the destination.
    • Minibus hire: Book a vehicle to accommodate participants and their gear.
    • Public transport: Check train or bus schedules in advance.

3. Walking together

  • Pace: Maintain a steady but manageable pace to ensure everyone stays together.
  • Reflections during the walk:
    • Discuss the urgency of forced migration and the sacrifices refugees make.
    • Reflect on the natural beauty of the surroundings as a symbol of hope.

Part 3: Serious Trials

Overview: A muddy obstacle course designed to test participants’ physical and mental resilience.

1. Course preparation

  • Book the assault course in advance and confirm safety measures with the organisers.
  • Ensure participants keep their rucksacks with them during the course, symbolising the burden refugees carry.

2. Obstacles

Participants will face challenges such as:

  • Crawling through dark tunnels.
  • Climbing tyre walls and rope nets.
  • Balancing on narrow beams.
  • Wading through mud and water ditches.

These obstacles are designed to simulate the physical trials refugees endure during their journeys.

3. Reflection prompts

  • Encourage participants to reflect on how it feels to protect their belongings in difficult conditions.
  • Discuss the concept of attachment and how refugees leave behind far more than material items.

4. After the course

  • Changing and prayer: Provide space for participants to shower and change into dry clothes. Facilitate group prayer and moments of gratitude.
  • Return journey: Retrace the walking route to the drop-off point and arrange transport back to the original venue.

Final reflections and meal

After the challenge, participants gather to share their experiences over an interfaith meal.

Closing the event

  • Reflection circle: Invite participants to share their thoughts on the physical, emotional, and spiritual lessons they’ve learned.
  • Celebrate unity: Emphasise the bonds formed and the collective impact on raising awareness and funds for refugees.

Tips for success

  1. Engage community leaders: Involve imams, priests, and rabbis to encourage participation and build trust.
  2. Promote inclusivity: Ensure the event is welcoming to people of all faiths and backgrounds.
  3. Prepare for challenges: Have first aid kits and contingency plans for injuries or delays.
  4. Maximise impact: Partner with a charity that works with refugees and use the event to raise funds through sponsorships and donations.

Conclusion

The Trials & Tribulations challenge is a profound way to foster empathy, solidarity, and understanding. By walking in the shoes of refugees and navigating physical and emotional trials, participants from diverse faiths can strengthen their bonds while making a meaningful difference. Let this challenge inspire a lifelong commitment to compassion and interfaith cooperation.

Related topics