Participants have called The Interreligious Communities Project (ICP) “life-changing”, “transforming”, “beautiful”, “remarkable”, and “a highlight of their interfaith career.” Not your typical one-off interfaith event, the ICP is a sustained journey of relationship-building through shared experiences visiting sacred spaces coupled with monthly trainings that equip participants with foundational dialogue, peace-building, and depolarizing skills.
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ICP is a quiet yet fast-growing movement as it uniquely builds interreligious community through a process that unravels and reveals our shared humanity. Each layer of the program is generative, inspiring deeper reflection, opening new friendships, and leading to shared service or action.
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Interreligious Communities Project Dallas Graduation
How It Works​
Volunteer Coordinator
A volunteer coordinator steps forward or is chosen in each location to help guide the Interreligious Communities Project locally.
National Network & Local Partners
The coordinator joins the national ICP network — meeting monthly online with other coordinators — and convenes local partners, typically two lay leaders from each participating congregation or community group.
Program Launch
Each city’s ICP cohort launches in September or October, beginning a 9–10 month journey of learning, sacred site experiences, and community connection.
Interfaith Core Leadership Training
From October through May, participants engage in monthly online leadership training sessions led by senior staff of Sharing Sacred Spaces. These sessions teach (inter)religious literacy and essential de-polarizing and peacemaking skills for engaging constructively across difference.
Sacred Site Experiences
Local partners host visits to their sacred spaces, offering hospitality and sharing the meaning, rituals, and architecture of their traditions.
Shared Pledge & Celebration
Cohorts craft a shared pledge of common hopes and commitments followed by a celebration that honors their journey together.
Community Demonstration Project
Many cohorts conclude with a collaborative community event or project — an opportunity to put their learning into practice and share their impact with the wider community.
ICP Cities
Proven Results​
Post-program interviews show transformative outcomes for participants including:​​​​
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Wider perspective​
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Breakdown of stereotypes
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Loss of defensiveness and fear
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Deep knowledge of difference
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Overcoming one’s own limitations
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Impeccable, joyful experiences
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Relief and satiation of curiosity
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Hope and optimism
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Feelings of solidarity
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100% of participants said they would attend again
Voices from the ICP
Get Involved
Imagine a city where religious difference is a vehicle and catalyst for peace.
We’ll help you convene partners, plan, & launch your cohort.
Training, resources, & a step-by-step process to lead your cohort.
Hear about new participating cities, events, & resources.
Support interreligious relationship-building where you live.
FAQ
How long does an ICP cohort run?
Cohorts typically run 9–10 months, with monthly online trainings and 3–5 sacred site experiences throughout the year.
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Who can participate?
Congregations, campus groups, community organizations, and interested neighbors are all welcome.
Can I join if my city doesn’t yet have an ICP? Or if I am not part of a religious group?
Yes! Anyone can participate in the online monthly training program, led directly by Sharing Sacred Spaces.
Do I need prior interfaith experience?
No. ICP is designed to be welcoming for first-timers and meaningful for seasoned practitioners alike.
What support does SSS provide?
SSS offers coordinator training, facilitation resources, templates, and ongoing consultation throughout the program.
What does it cost?
There’s no cost to congregations beyond simple hosting expenses (like meals and handouts).
Volunteer coordinators receive a $2,000 stipend for their service.
Who leads the trainings?
The Sharing Sacred Spaces senior staff facilitate the monthly online sessions.
How can I start an ICP in my city?
Reach out to Sharing Sacred Spaces to learn more about launching a cohort in your community — we’ll walk with you every step of the way.