Protecting Religious Freedom: An Interfaith Invitation

Protecting Religious Freedom: An Interfaith Invitation: Freedom of religion is a fundamental human right that protects the consciences of all people. It allows us to think, express, and act upon what we deeply believe. But in many parts of the world, as in the United States, this freedom is eroding. Religious organizations and individuals face increasing restrictions as they participate in the public square, express their beliefs, or serve in society. A panel of local faith leaders and international experts met on 10 November 2015, at the First Baptist Orlando Faith Hall in Orlando, Florida, to discuss religious freedom threats and what people can do to make a difference.

Participating in a panel discussion at the event were the following:

Chair:
    Senior Associate Pastor Danny de Armas, First Baptist Orlando

Keynote Speakers:
    Professor W. Cole Durham, Jr., Director, International Center for Law and Religion Studies, Brigham Young University
    Rabbi Mark Goldfeder, Director, Law and Religion Student Program, Emory University

Panelists:
    Mr. Braham R. Aggarwal, Hindu University of America
    Pastor Augustine “Gus” Davies, Northland, A Church Distributed
    Father William P. Holliday, Incarnation Catholic Church, Orlando
    Imam Muhammad Musri, Islamic Society of Central Florida
    Senior Pastor David Swanson, First Presbyterian Church of Orlando