RPL Annual Report 2023-24 Introduction
Dear Friends of Religion and Public Life:
At Religion and Public Life, we know that religion is a powerful force that can both thwart and inspire open-hearted love; that is why our work is focused on understanding that power in its implicit and explicit manifestations. Our methods are grounded in theory and intended for practice in diverse contexts and professional fields, including education, journalism, government, community organizing, humanitarian action, and arts and popular culture. Through both our academic offerings (the Master of Religion and Public Life and the Certificate in Religion and Public Life) and our public programming, we provide skills for translating the relevance and power of religion that can be applied in multiple fields and sectors.
Representing the vision and central commitments articulated in our strategic plan, this report reflects several guiding themes:
- Seeking Justice: Our goal is to identify how we can contribute to a just world at peace.
- Inspiring Moral Imagination: Our work is grounded in hope. We strive to explore what is possible beyond the probable.
- Cultivating Just Peace: Our process is rooted in collaboration, with a long view of transformation and a wide view of accountability.
As we conclude the year, we are humbled and inspired by our students, colleagues, and collaborators who strive to act with open-hearted love in response to the ongoing and multivalent challenges and opportunities before us. We remain deeply grateful for your partnership and look forward to our continued collaboration as we strive together to build a just world at peace in these dangerous and fragmented times.
Diane L. Moore
Associate Dean for Religion and Public Life
July 2024