Identity is a multifaceted topic, a huge part of which can be our relationship to religion and spirituality. In order to explore, celebrate, support and connect with that aspect of our identity, Grand Valley State University’s Interfaith Resources will be hosting a second year of Lived Interfaith Conversations.

Occurring once a month, any student is welcome to come and strike up lively conversations with their peers. Campus Interfaith Resources staff will lead discussions on topics relating to religious identity, such as politics, the environment, love and relationships, or feasting and fasts. During the event, students will be able to take the floor by sharing their opinions and insights on topics they feel passionate about.

“Folks can come together and see how someone’s religious, spiritual, or secular identity impacts how they see the world,” said Kevin McIntosh, Coordinator of Campus Interfaith Resources.

Events are LIB 100 and LIB 201 approved, and will be held one Tuesday of every month. The first conversation of 2020 will be held Tuesday, Jan. 14, from 1-2 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center room 2266, and will discuss service and giving back to the community. Two more are scheduled for March 10 and April 7. Topics are posted prior to each session, giving students an opportunity to choose conversations according to their interest.

“I think it’s really important for folks to be comfortable having conversations with people of different religious, spiritual or secular identities in order to learn more,” McIntosh said. “My favorite part is seeing students continue their conversations after the event is over.”

One of Campus Interfaith Resources strongest missions is to support and celebrate religious, secular and spiritual diversity at GVSU. By supporting diversity and coming together, individuals are able to learn something new from one another.