Religion has made its way into many global conflicts, and there is no doubt that religion can be divisive and cause harm. That said, countless religious groups, congregations and individuals around the world offer daily demonstrations that faith can offer deep spiritual wisdom, be a major vehicle for service to the world and promote peace.
Here are 100 examples of how faith-based groups are doing good in the world today in no particular order. Many of them we found through #ReligionDoingGood – tweet us other examples of your religious community doing good with that hashtag.
Providing trainings and support groups for people with disabilities in Sierra Leone
Founded in 2010 by a group of concerned Christian women, Women of Hope International works with people living with disabilities in Sierra Leone. The organization runs the HOPE center in Makeni, Sierra Leone which provides trainings, support groups, meetings and career development to women in the community.
Inspiring kids to care for the environment through immersive workshops
The Teva Learning Cener hosts immersive classes and retreats focused on the Jewish commitment to tikkun olam — healing the world. Included in this is a series of youth programs aimed at inspiring kids to see the beauty in the natural environment and work toward sustainability in their communities.
Combating stereotypes about Islam to promote equality
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) was founded to combat stereotypes about Islam and Muslims through education and anti-terrorism activism. As part of an initiative to raise awareness about discrimination and help American Muslims advocate for themselves, CAIR printed a pocket-sized ‘know your rights and responsibilities’ guide for those who might be subject to discrimination.
Training interfaith leaders around the world to foster peace in their communities
Founded in 1893, the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions works to promote interreligious harmony as a way of advancing peace while maintaining diversity. Among its many projects, the Council runs the Ambassador Program which selects ambassadors around the world who will promote peace and sustainability through interfaith engagement in their communities.
Supporting campaigns for economic and worker justice
Interfaith Worker Justice operates out of Chicago to promote workers’ rights and grassroots organizing. The organization partners with campaigns, like the Making Change at Walmart Campaign, to mobilize faith communities for economic and worker justice.
Excerpted from: Huffington Post