About Chicago ICP

 

The Chicago Interreligious Communities Project (ICP) was the inaugural city program of Sharing Sacred Spaces — a pioneering collaboration with the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions (CPWR). Launched in October 2011, the project brought together eight congregations across downtown Chicago to visit one another’s sacred spaces, share their histories, and build authentic relationships across faith traditions.

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Pioneered by architect and Sacred Space Ambassador Suzanne Morgan and Reverend Dirk Ficca, Executive Director of the Parliament of the World’s Religions, this groundbreaking program laid the foundation for the model that would later expand to cities across North America.

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Throughout the 2011–2014 program year, participating communities opened their doors and hearts — hosting visits that inspired dialogue, curiosity, and lasting friendship. The program culminated in a citywide Solidarity Pledge celebration, where participants vowed to protect one another and uphold each other’s dignity in times of challenge.  A second round of site visits -- this time visiting one another's worship services and holiday celebrations -- took place throughout 2012-2013, with the following year focused on joint civic action — addressing violence and justice issues in the city and demonstrating how faith communities can be a powerful force for peace, understanding, and collective action.

2011-2014 Coordinators: Suzanne Morgan, Dirk Ficca

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A New Team Steps up for Chicago

 

A new program iteration is now ramping up in Chicago-- in the areas of Skokie and WiIlmette-- readying to launch in September 2026.  Stay tuned for our announcement about participating congregations and event dates!

 

Coordinators: Rev. Stuart Barnes and Audrey Moy

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