11th Annual Day of Reflection

The Interfaith Alliance Foundation of Oklahoma will hold its 11th Annual Day of Reflection on Thursday, May 1, at 7:00 pm at the First Christian Church, 3700 N. Walker, OKC. The event coincides with the National Day of Prayer. The Interfaith event stresses the constructive contributions to society of diverse religious traditions in Oklahoma and America.

This year's theme will be "Violence in Society: A Matter of Faith." "Too often, violence in the name of religion is common place, so we want to stress violence prevention in the name of religion," said Rev Jeff Hamilton, Legislative Chair of the Interfaith Alliance Foundation of Oklahoma.

The keynote speaker for the event will be Janet L Peery, CEO, YWCA, Oklahoma City. Peery is well known for her leadership for the prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Jan's advocacy work has brought her numerous recognitions and awards, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Director's 2013 Community Leadership Award and most recently, the "Advocacy Award" by the Oklahoma Conference of Churches.

The Rev Jesse Jackson, pastor of the East Sixth Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) OKC will offer a "Pastoral Reflection" on the theme of violence in society. A graduate of Phillips Theological Seminary, Jackson has served as Program Director for the Eastside YMCA and a teacher at the Marcus Garvey Leadership Charter School.

Following the two presentations, questions and comments from the audience will be received by the Moderator of the evening, Ersin Demirci, Executive Director at the Dialogue Institute of Oklahoma.

The closing ceremony, "Let Freedom Ring!" will feature representatives of the diverse religious traditions present.

A reception will follow in the church parlor. The public is welcome.