Established in the 1990s, the Interfaith Centre at Dublin City University (DCU) has become a sanctuary for people of all faiths. It provides space for prayer and reflection, including separate rooms for men and women. There’s a Hindu temple, and a chapel with a grand piano, thus creating an inclusive environment for students of various beliefs. It is run by the dedicated staff of DCU Chaplaincy and fueled by one idea: religious tolerance.
Eric Hughes, one of the Chaplaincy, referred to it as a “place for everyone” and wished for more places like this in Ireland.
The Interfaith Centre of DCU did not just come into existence with four walls and one roof but there had been continuous work undertaken to ensure the space is welcoming for students. Hughes recalls moments of conflict when casual debates between students would become heated, and the council had to intervene to remind the ground rules of the Centre which is, “this is not one’s enclosed place, but a place for anybody”.
Acceptance does not come naturally. The human brain is made to ask questions and form opinions based on personal experiences. For years, scholars have been preaching on religious tolerance and its implications because bloodbath in war has not solved any problems.
A few months back, a nearly four-decade-old interfaith charity organisation, Interfaith Network (IFN) in the United Kingdom, was shut down because of a lack of government funding. At a time when promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding is more urgent than ever, the closure of such an important organisation is deeply concerning.
Ireland, a predominantly Roman Catholic country has, in my experience, open heartedly welcomed other religions like Anglican, Episcopalian, Islam, and Hinduism. Islam is the largest minority religion followed in Ireland. Interestingly, the 2022 census revealed a notable rise in the number of people identifying as having “no religion,” with a 62% increase, alongside a 4% decline in the Roman Catholic population.
Religion for People or People for Religion
The world has been witnessing the slaughter of millions in the name of religion so the people in position live in their bubble. Be it wars in Europe during the 16th-17th century or current conflicts in the Middle East or Asia, it’s always been the common citizens who had to pay the price.
A student studying Aviation Management, Haya AlHadamdam, who can be spotted in the Inter-Faith Centre at any point of the day, says, “People need to take a step back and think about the cause of the fight,” quoting a verse of the Quran that says, “You shall have your religion and I shall have my religion.”
The centre hosts various events throughout the year, inviting students of all backgrounds to come together in mutual respect. One such event took place on November 1, 2024, when the chapel was transformed into a temple for the Diwali celebration. Afterwards, the space was mindfully returned to its original setting. Sometimes it’s that simple.
Wars are more than what we see (or are shown) but they are a good reminder to do better in society, for society. The Inter Faith Centre in DCU is a great example of mutual respect, inclusivity, and understanding as they are the foundations of a peaceful society.
Annu Mandal