On May 7, 2003, the ICJS brought together an eclectic group of clergy, chaplains, pastors, rabbis, and educators to think out loud about what happens when Christians and Jews are called to pray together in community gatherings and for national emergencies. We spoke from our respective traditions regarding the sources of our prayers and to whom we pray. The subtleties, mandates, attitudes, and even the attire of prayer emerged from our discussion, and a fabric that initially seemed so simple gave way to a rich brocade of centuries of tradition and practice.

In discussing joint prayer the group responded to a prayer written in response to September 11th by Joan D. Chittister, a Benedictine sister. The calm, easy sharing soon erupted into strong opinions, passion, and even anger. The usual response of groups to such electricity is moving away from the speak-ers. Instead, we leaned in closer. Our ears and hearts were ready to listen, to remain open to new information, to ask for clarification, and to offer alternatives. These were transform-ing moments -- opportunities to move beyond superficial knowledge to meaningful understanding.

Abraham Heschel wrote, "I never asked for success, I only asked for wonder. And You gave me wonder." Thank you, ICJS, not only for a successful colloquium, but also for wonder.