The Interfaith Chapel at the University of Rochester will sponsor an event at 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 6, in the main sanctuary of the Interfaith Chapel to educate the community about the religious diversity at the University. The celebration is the second of its kind, using music, dance, traditional dress, prayer, ceremony, and testimonials to explore the variety of faiths on campus.

Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, Jain, Sikh, Hindu, and Jewish students will collaborate to create a variety of events and music for the celebration. This year's program will feature a Chinese Lion Dance, a traditional feature of the Lunar New Year festivals in the Chinese and Vietnamese communities; a gospel performance; an African welcoming dance; readings from the Koran; and a Sikh Raag, music sung and played from Sikh tradition accompanied by harmonium.

Junior Rahuldeep Sing Gill, a student from the Sikh faith, will preside over the evening as master of ceremonies. Anne Meredith, instructor in the religion and classics department, will discuss religious diversity both in academic and in faith communities, and William Scott Green, dean of the College and director of the Center for Judaic Studies, will present the opening remarks.

A central part of the program, Reflections, will feature 10 students from different faiths speaking not only about their religious beliefs and what they value most, but also about the kind of stereotypes and prejudices that they face.

"I like to say that religion is the invisible part of student culture and life at the University," says Jody Asbury, director of University religious affairs. "This is an event that allows students to share this part of themselves with friends and the rest of the community. It is truly a celebration of the rich and diverse religious community we have at Rochester."

This event is free and open to the public and will be followed by a reception. For more information, contact the Interfaith Chapel at (585) 275-4321. To request disability accommodations, contact Kolein Koroly at least five days in advance of the event at (585) 275-4321.