Host families sought for Parliament of the World’s Religions
THE countdown to Parliament of the World's Religions has begun in earnest, with a list of speakers announced and a call for families to host guests.
AJN STAFF
THE countdown to Parliament of the World’s Religions has begun in earnest, with a list of guest speakers recently announced.
Organisers have also put out a call for families interested in hosting visitors to the event, which will be held in Melbourne from December 3-9.
Interested families need to apply by September 30 to host one of the 1000 guests expected to request homestay accommodation.
Reverend Dirk Ficca, executive director of the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions, said: “The G’day Melbourne Homestay program provides everyday Melburnians with an opportunity to welcome out-of-town guests into their homes and showcase Australian hospitality.”
Host families will be required to provide a bed and breakfast for guests staying with them during the event.
A list of headlining speakers was recently released for the event, which will be one of the world’s largest interfaith gatherings.
Among the speakers will be Rabbi David Rosen, chairman of the Israel-based International Jewish Committee on Interreligious Consultations; the Dalai Lama; Dalia Mogahed, a Muslim member of President Barack Obama’s team; and former High Court Judge the Honourable Michael Kirby.
One of the main themes of the event will be indigenous spirituality. Speaking on that topic will be Margaret Lokawua, from the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues; Chief Oren Lyons, a native American leader; and indigenous Australian leaders Professor Joy Murphy Wandin and Uncle Bob Randall.
A highlight of the event is expected to be the sacred music concert on December 6. Confirmed performers at that concert include Zain Bhikha, a South African, Muslim singer; Natesan Ramani, an Indian flautist; and jazz musicians David Jones and friends.
More than 8000 visitors from 80 countries will attend Parliament of the World’s Religions at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Homestay host applications close on September 30. Enquiries and applications: (03) 8622 4809. For more information, www.parliamentofreligions2009.org.
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