Peace Islands PA

Peace Islands Institute Pennsylvania (PIIPA) seeks to promote a civil society based on shared human values through education, dialogue, and collaboration.

[Peace Islands NJ @PIINJ]

Peace Islands Institute mourns the tragic loss of three lives in the attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families and stand in solidarity with the Muslim community during this heartbreaking time.

May we respond to hatred with compassion, unity, and peace.

#SanDiego #PeaceAndUnity #PeaceIslands

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

At a panel organized by United Lutheran Seminary focused on interfaith engagement, our Spain Interfaith Trip, which we co-organized, was highlighted as a model for meaningful dialogue and shared learning.

During the panel discussion, Rabbi David Straus, Edward Livingston, and Said Selmanlar shared insights on sustaining interfaith dialogue, the impact of interfaith travel experiences, and how to continue building relationships even in challenging times.

We are grateful to United Lutheran Seminary for hosting this important conversation and thank Dr. Leslie Virnelson for organizing the event. We are truly happy to be part of this ongoing interfaith journey.
#peaceislandspa #PIIPA #interfaith

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Wishing our Jewish friends joy, light, and peace throughout these eight nights of Hanukkah #Hanukkah #LightAndPeace #PIIPA #peaceislands

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

On Monday, we reunited with our Spain Trip participants as part of our ongoing interfaith learning series. This time, the gathering took place at JTS. Before heading there, the group met at the Grolier Club, where they explored historical manuscripts from different parts of the world.

They then continued to The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) and enjoyed lunch while listening to a talk by Chancellor Dr. Shuly Rubin Schwartz on Varieties of American Judaism, followed by a thoughtful group discussion.

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Two weeks ago, we had the opportunity to organize our annual Thanksgiving Turkey Assistance program in collaboration with Rep. Gina Curry’s office. This year, we reached almost 100 families with holiday support. The packages included frozen turkeys, Thanksgiving dinner side dishes, sweet potato pies, drinks, and more.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all volunteers and to Rep. Gina Curry’s team for their incredible efforts in packing, carrying, and distributing the packages. Your dedication made this meaningful service possible.

#peaceislandspa #PIIPA #thanksgiving #2025

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Your support today makes it possible for us to continue serving families, building connections, and strengthening our community. Give your coffee, support Peace Islands today.

https://t.co/MDnI2VBhgl

[AfSV @AfSV_US]

The Alliance for Shared Values condemns the violent shooting that targeted two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. We grieve for the victims and stand with their families and communities as they navigate this painful time. Violence of any kind undermines the safety, dignity, and peace we strive to uphold. We reaffirm our commitment to fostering a society grounded in nonviolence, respect, and the protection of every human life.

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Happy Thanksgiving! Wishing all a warm, joyful, and peaceful holiday.

#peaceislandspa #PIIPA #happythanksgiving #happyholidays #HonoringHeritage

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

We’re so grateful for another year of meaningful partnership with State Representative Tarik Khan and his wonderful team. With the help of @EmbraceRelief , Share Food Program, NewCourtland, and our amazing youth volunteers, we were able to put together and deliver Thanksgiving packages to 90 families in our community.

Thank you to everyone who packed, carried, organized, and showed up with so much kindness. Moments like this remind us what community is all about.

Happy holidays!

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

We had a wonderful conversation with Neighbors Helping Neighbors about how we can support one another while serving our communities. Many great ideas were shared, and we look forward to continuing this new friendship between NHN and Peace Islands. #neighborshelpingneighbors

For those who wish to help create Thanksgiving boxes, you are welcome to drop off donations on November 24th, anytime between 8 AM and 8 PM.

NHN Address:
104 Holland Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003

We are collecting the following Thanksgiving food items:

Turkey
Stuffing mix
Gravy
Cranberry sauce
Mashed potatoes or instant potatoes
Canned vegetables (corn, green beans, etc.)
Canned yams
Pie filling or boxed dessert mixes
Mac & cheese
Rice or pasta
Beans
Juice boxes (for kids)
Snacks

We are also accepting basic necessities, including:
Soap
Dish soap
Toilet paper
Toothpaste

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

On the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, we had the privilege of hosting a meaningful panel that brought together voices from three different faiths to explore the importance of interfaith dialogue and building peaceful communities.

We were honored to have our distinguished speakers: Rabba Rori Picker Neiss, Prof. Zeki Saritoprak, and Rev. Russell K. McDougall, who shared thoughtful insights from their respective faith traditions and experiences. Their reflections sparked deep conversations and highlighted how understanding and respect can create bridges between communities.

Thanks to our process facilitators, Rabbi Or Rose, Director, and Dr. Homayra Ziad, the discussion felt open and welcoming, giving everyone a chance to share their thoughts, listen deeply, and engage on even the toughest topics.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us from different religions, denominations, and backgrounds for contributing to the rich dialogue and embodying the spirit of Nostra Aetate. Together, we continue to learn, grow, and work toward a more peaceful and connected world.

#PeaceIslandsPA #NostraAetate #InterfaithDialogue #BuildingPeaceTogether #CommunityVoices

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Wishing all our friends who celebrate a very Happy Diwali! May the Festival of Lights bring joy, prosperity, and happiness to your life. #happydiwali #diwali #peaceislandspa #PIIPA

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Thank you for the incredible interest in our panel program, "Nostra Aetate: Facing the Future as Friends."

ONLY 6 DAYS to go for this significant interfaith event.

We look forward to seeing all registered guests on Wednesday, October 22nd!

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Journalists Joyce Davis and Abdulhamit Bilici hosted a podcast episode with representatives from three faiths who joined our Spain–Andalusia interfaith trip, highlighted as an inspiring example of a peacebuilding project.

They shared meaningful reflections and experiences from the journey, offering powerful insights into dialogue and mutual understanding.

A truly inspiring and insightful conversation, worth listening to!
🎧 Watch the full episode here: https://t.co/1qT7gO17GF

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

To those observing Yom Kippur, we wish you a meaningful fast and a day of reflection. #YomKippur #peaceislandspa

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

@roripn @CardinalWDG @ZekiSaritoprak

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

60 Years of Nostra Aetate: Building Interfaith Friendships
Join us as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate and explore the new possibilities for Catholic-Jewish-Muslim dialogue. Hear from:

Cardinal Wilton Gregory – Keynote

Rev. Russell K. McDougall, Rabba Rori Picker Neiss, Dr. Zeki Saritoprak – Panel

Rabbi Or Rose & Dr. Homayra Ziad – Facilitated Interfaith Session

Date: October 22, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Luncheon Following

Location: SJU, Campion Student Center: Doyle Banquet Hall

Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen understanding, build friendships, and foster solidarity in today’s world.
Register Today!
https://t.co/cfRz6frakY

Organized in collaboration with Saint Joseph University, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the Board of Rabbis of Greater Philadelphia, the City of Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, and the City of Philadelphia Office of Muslim Engagement.

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Peace Islands wishes a sweet and peaceful New Year to all who celebrate Rosh Hashanah. May this year bring unity, understanding, and hope to all communities.

#ShanahTovah #PeaceIslandspa #NewYear #Community

[Peace Islands PA @PeaceIslandsPA]

Rev. Msgr. Gregory J. Fairbanks explains Nostra Aetate (Latin for “In Our Time”), the Second Vatican Council’s landmark declaration that reshaped Catholic relations with other faith traditions. His clear explanation shows why Nostra Aetate remains a vital source of interfaith friendship and solidarity today and sets the stage for our upcoming Nostra Aetate Panel on October 22. Thank you to Msgr. Gregory Fairbanks for sharing his insights at last year’s Public Heroes Appreciation Awards.