A Summer of Learning and Unity ​​​​​​​by Betul Maden-Yilmaz, Theological Intern

Betul Maden-Yilmaz, Theological Intern, leads students in the Mosaic Program at The Praise Center in South Philadelphia

By Betul Maden-Yilmaz, Theological Intern

In a world that grows increasingly diverse by the day, fostering understanding and appreciation for different backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities is essential for creating a harmonious and peaceful society. Interfaith Philadelphia’s Mosaic Summer Program has been a shining example of how young minds can be enlightened and inspired to embrace interfaith values.

As an Interfaith Philadelphia Theological Intern, and one of the co-facilitators in three of these enriching programs, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power it holds for students in 6th to 8th grade. Through engaging activities, interactive sessions, and captivating presentations, the students have embarked on a journey of discovery, unity, and personal growth.

This June and July, we offered Mosaic in South Philly at The Aquinas Center and The Philadelphia Praise Center; in North Philly at Gesu School, Community Partnership School, and Hope Partnership for Education; in West Philly at Masjidullah and White Rock Baptist Church and in East Lansdowne at Vision Academy Charter School.

Using the Passport to Understanding

Central to the success of the three programs was the brilliant curriculum built by the Youth Initiatives team, and the Passport to Understanding. The Passport is an innovative tool designed to facilitate the student’s exploration of the concept of interfaith engagement. This Passport, through its 5 main components of “Be Curious,” “Welcome In,” “Venture Out,” “Stand Tall,” and “Stand With” acted as a guide, encouraging the young participants to delve into the diverse religious and cultural tapestry that exists within their communities and beyond. As a student from South Philly perfectly summarized, “I have to Stand Tall so I can Stand With others more confidently.” Through the Passport, they were challenged to broaden their perspectives and adopt a more inclusive mindset. By actively engaging with the materials, the students learned not only to respect differences but to celebrate their own identities and stand tall themselves. A student from Lansdowne stated, “I understand what interfaith means now, and I can appreciate other people’s faiths more.”

What is Mosaic?

Mosaic’s core mission is to cultivate an environment where young minds can be open to learning about various religions, traditions, and ethnicities. By encouraging curiosity and fostering an environment free from judgment, the students were motivated to ask questions, share experiences, and appreciate the unique beauty that each faith and culture brings to the table. In this safe and supportive space, they discovered that diversity enriches our lives and that knowledge can bridge divides, rather than create them. For the students in Lansdowne, this safe space allowed for students to be able to have difficult conversations regarding racism, religious intolerance, and violence that is prominent in the city. They shared personal stories and experiences and received support from the community formed during Mosaic in just a few days. 

About the Facilitators

While the focus was on promoting interfaith awareness, we as the facilitators, Elexus, Dulba, Gilana, and myself, ensured that the curriculum was infused with enjoyable activities and art projects to also leave room for fun throughout the week. This creative approach sparked the students’ imagination and fostered a sense of friendship among them. The hands-on experiences of art, coupled with engaging presentations by the interns of Interfaith Philadelphia, Dulba, and myself, made the learning process exciting and memorable for both the students and us facilitators.

My Takeaway from the Experience

One of the program’s most rewarding aspects was witnessing the blossoming of new friendships and the formation of genuine connections among the participants. As the days progressed, the students grew closer, transcending their differences, and embracing the common humanity that binds us all. These bonds of friendship became the bedrock for a future generation that understands the importance of mutual respect, empathy, and the pursuit of a just, peaceful world for all. As a Theological Intern and a hopeful future educator, this was as rich of a learning experience for the facilitators, as it was for the middle school students. The more we learn from each other, the more we are likely to move forward in a just and peaceful world.

This program is offered for FREE thanks to generous support from the Mary Beth Gallagher Youth Legacy Fund

Learn more about the Mosaic Summer Program here or email Elexus Freeman-Filmore at [email protected]