The Vatican II document, Nostra Aetate called for interreligious dialogue. Similarly, the Avala Dominican General Chapter states, “We can no longer consider interreligious dialogue an optional extra. . .” Taking our place with the three Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam offers us an opportunity to be respectfully present to each other in dialogue. Having been mentored by Islamic Sufi teachers and with the accompaniment of skilled musicians I have had the opportunity to offer retreatants the sacred chant and dance movement done within a circle of prayer. The experience of repeating a sacred phrase in this way of prayer offers something more than an intellectual consideration of another religious tradition. It can take the participants to a deeper place that offers something more than understanding a sacred text. While this may seem to be a different way to encounter spiritual wisdom, it is similar to chanting the Salve Regina in procession or the standing, sitting and kneeling we practice in the Divine Office. Encountering the spiritual richness of a tradition beyond our own with a clear understanding that we give up nothing of our own tradition offers a way to deeper understanding of a way to be in respectful dialogue with other traditions. The leader taking his or her place within a circle offers an opportunity for mutual respect that adds even more than what words and images offer.

— Br. Joseph Kilikevice OP