For most of our history, Christians, Jews and Muslims have lived their faiths behind closed doors. Out of fear, ignorance, or arrogance, each closed its doors to the wisdom and beauty of the other. The legacy of our mutual suspicion has all too often resulted in hatred and bloodshed.

In today's world, where religion plays an ever increasing role in public life, we are faced with a new imperative: to disarm religious hostilities and forge new and creative partnerships among peoples of faith. For the past 20 years, the Institute for Christian & Jewish Studies (ICJS) has worked to unlock the doors to new understandings. As an independent, interfaith, educational institution we pursue this vision by:

• opening our doors wide and making room at the table for a broad range of interpretations and beliefs within our respective traditions
• coming together to study foundational texts to open doors within ourselves and identify resources we have to relate to the "other" with integrity and respect
• providing public programs and lectures on current topics and examining how our faith traditions can
  inform today's issues
• developing educational resources with and for scholars, students, clergy, community leaders, and the general public to be used locally, regionally and nationally

When the doors of knowledge and understanding are opened in these ways, we gain essential insights that can only emerge through the interplay of our traditions. Christians become better Christians; Jews become better Jews; and both are empowered to challenge and inspire the society at large.

In October 2006 we launched our "Opening Doors" annual fund drive. Our goal is an ambitious one, reflecting our commitment to providing high quality programs for clergy, lay learners and scholars. We also have expanded our marketing efforts to bring the ICJS to a wider audience. We are extremely grateful for the response of so many generous donors.

Your support of the ICJS annual fund will ensure that this im-portant work and programming continues. You can help keep the doors open and welcome others to the table by making a generous gift today.

With deep appreciation,

    Frank O. Heintz     Lee M. Hendler     Kathryn K. Hoskins
    ICJS Co-Chair       ICJS Co-Chair       ICJS Co-Chair