Healing in the Midst of Ukraine's War, Rebuilding Faith in Uzbekistan, and Advanced Religious Literacy Training in Kazakhstan

LYNC interviews our Trauma Healing Project Manager in Ukraine, Faith-Based Peacemaking from Doha, and Rethinking Diversity with Dr. Dennis Hoover

SHOW NOTES – LYNC RADIO: HEALING TRAUMA, BUILDING PEACE, AND EMBRACING DIVERSITY 🎙️ Episode Summary: In this episode of LYNC RADIO, host Jessica Eturralde explores three powerful stories of faith in action: ✅ Trauma healing in Ukraine – equipping Sunday school teachers to support children affected by war. ✅ A call for peace from Doha – Dr. Janna Scott on the role of faith in peacemaking at the Doha Interfaith Conference. ✅ Dealing with diversity differently – Dr. Dennis Hoover’s insights on Covenantal Pluralism at Gordon College’s Franz Lecture Series. 🔹 Segment 1: Trauma Healing in Ukraine * LYNC’s Trauma Healing Program is making a difference for Ukrainian children and families affected by war. * Project Manager Oksana Vlasnova traveled from Germany to launch LYNC’s first trauma-care training for Sunday school teachers. * Led by licensed therapists, the program provides psychological support and will culminate in official "Children and War" certificates this September. * Educators are learning new methods to help children process trauma—ensuring long-term healing beyond the classroom. 🔹 Segment 2: A Call for Peace from Doha The Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue Conference [https://DohaInternationalCenterforInterfaithDialogueConference] explored the role of religions in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. The second annual Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue conference took place last month in Doha, Qatar. On February 18-20 the event, titled "From Religious Freedom to Religious Responsibility: Peacemaking in a Destabilized World," was held under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani and in collaboration with the Multi-Faith Neighbors Network [https://mfnn.org/case_study/from-religious-freedom-to-religious-responsibility-doha-qatar/] (MFNN). * Dr. Janna Scott, CEO of the American Center for Religious Freedom, spoke on faith’s role in leadership and reconciliation. * She laid out eight core principles for sustainable peace and emphasized cross-religious collaboration as key to stability. * Dr. Scott urged government leaders, grassroots communities, and faith leaders to legislate, practice, and preach peace. 🔹 Segment 3: Dealing with Diversity Differently * At Gordon College’s Franz Lecture Series [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3W2zRUVgyE], Dr. Dennis Hoover introduced the concept of Covenantal Pluralism. The Franz Lecture Series run by the Center for Faith & Inquiry, at Gordon College, was established in 1992 and named after historian David Franz. The annual lecture features a keynote speaker and this year, LYNC Senior Fellow Dr. Dennis Hoover, who is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Global Engagement delivered this year’s special lesson on March 4th.  His talk, "Dealing with Diversity Differently: A Case for Covenantal Pluralism," tackled an increasingly pressing global challenge: navigating deep religious diversity. Dr. Hoover introduced covenantal pluralism—which emphasizes religious freedom, cross-cultural religious literacy, and character virtues like humility and reciprocity as essential to fostering mutual respect and cooperation. * This engagement model promotes religious freedom, character development, and cross-cultural religious literacy. * Dr. Hoover explained why “covenantal” is crucial—it represents a lasting commitment to cooperation across differences. * Using global data, he showed that successful pluralism is possible, citing Senegal, Albania, and Gambia as examples. * His key message: Loving one’s neighbor, even across deep theological divides, strengthens social cohesion and religious freedom. 📢 Links & Resources: 🔗 Watch Dr. Dennis Hoover’s full lecture [https://TheFranzLectureSeriesrunbytheCenterforFaith&Inquiry,atGordonCollege,wasestablishedin1992andnamedafterhistorianDavidFranz.Theannuallecturefeaturesakeynotespeakerandthisyear,LYNCSeniorFellowDr.DennisHoover,whoisalsoaSeniorFellowattheInstituteforGlobalEngagementdeliveredthisyear’sspeciallessononMarch4th.Histalk,"DealingwithDiversityDifferently:ACaseforCovenantalPluralism,"tackledanincreasinglypressingglobalchallenge:navigatingdeepreligiousdiversity.Dr.Hooverintroducedcovenantalpluralism—whichemphasizesreligiousfreedom,cross-culturalreligiousliteracy,andcharactervirtueslikehumilityandreciprocityasessentialtofosteringmutualrespectandcooperation.] on Gordon College’s YouTube channel. 🔗 Read Dr. Janna Scott’s blog on faith & peacemaking: https://lyncommunity.org/blog/the-spiritual-call-to-action-faith-leadership-and-the-pursuit-of-peace/ [https://lyncommunity.org/blog/the-spiritual-call-to-action-faith-leadership-and-the-pursuit-of-peace/] 💡 Final Thought: Faith should not just inspire—it should move us toward action. Join LYNC in building bridges, fostering peace, and healing communities. 🎧 Enjoying LYNC RADIO? 🔹 Like, subscribe, and share this episode! 🔹 Follow us for more updates on faith, social cohesion, and multi-faith engagement. #LYNCRadio #TraumaHealing #CovenantalPluralism #ReligiousFreedom #FaithAndPeace #LoveYourNeighbor

An Uzbek Church Celebrates its Registry, LYNC's Ambitions for 2025, Insights from Nadine Maenza, and LYNC Heads to Washington D.C.

A CHRISTIAN CHURCH RECEIVES ITS REGISTRY IN UZBEKISTAN, WE HIGHLIGHT THE LATEST LYNC DEVELOPMENTS AND PLANS FOR 2025, NOTE ON A FEW TAKEAWAYS FROM OUR LATEST INTERVIEW WITH IRF SECRETARIAT PRESIDENT NADINE MAENZA, AND FINALLY, WE REFLECT ON THE RELIGIOUS FREEDOM WEEK IN WASHINGTON D.C. Links: * Article on Uzbek church registry: https://uzchurches.uz/news/v-dzhizake-otkrylas-tserkov-khristian-polnogo-evangeliya/ * LYNC Article: Exploring New Pathways: Cultivating a Shared Religious Landscape in Central Asia - https://lyncommunity.org/news-article/exploring-new-pathways-cultivating-a-shared-religious-landscape-in-central-asia/ * WATCH LYNC INTERVIEW: The Intersection of Advocacy and Relationship-Building in Religious Freedom Efforts - Nadine Maenza - https://youtu.be/ioujWtuSFtM?si=_uiAUwOOk7S8q09T * IRFsecretariat.org * IRFroundtable.org * IRFsummit.org

Healing in the Midst of Ukraine's War, Rebuilding Faith in Uzbekistan, and Advanced Religious Literacy Training in Kazakhstan

SHOW NOTES FOR LYNC RADIO EPISODE 13 Title: Healing in the Midst of Ukraine's War, Rebuilding Faith in Uzbekistan, and Advanced Religious Literacy Training in Kazakhstan Host: Jessica Eturralde Duration: 22 minutes [00:00] OPENING SEGMENT * Introduction to today’s topics: trauma therapy in Ukraine, rebuilding efforts in Uzbekistan, and groundbreaking training in Kazakhstan. * Quick promo for the LYNC Interview video program. * Related Link: LYNC INTERVIEW [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNjAjrFqPorH1gd1iYJkRdOXHOkgTYiOD] on YouTube > https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNjAjrFqPorH1gd1iYJkRdOXHOkgTYiOD [02:18] HEALING IN THE MIDST OF WAR: TRAUMA THERAPY IN UKRAINE * Overview of the Caring for Ukraine's Children through Trauma Healing, Hope, and Critical Care initiative. * Key Metrics: * 449 children and 81 adults reached across Ukraine and Germany. * 39 group sessions conducted by 21 therapy teams in 16 cities. * Stories of resilience: * Matviy in Lviv overcame isolation to discover hope. * Maksym in Zhmerinka found peace using “Safe Place” techniques. * Sofia in Borodianka processed her trauma through art therapy. * Recognition of Ukrainian partners, Krasy Maibutne, and their critical role. * Read Full Report [https://lyncommunity.org/report/caring-for-ukraines-children-through-trauma-healing-hope-and-critical-care/]: https://lyncommunity.org/report/caring-for-ukraines-children-through-trauma-healing-hope-and-critical-care/ [09:22] REBUILDING FAITH IN UZBEKISTAN * Spotlight on the Baptist community in Bukhara and their ongoing struggle to rebuild their church. * Challenges faced: * Legal and administrative barriers. * Current alternative worship space requires significant renovations. * Call to action: * Goal: Raise $50,000 for renovations. * Donate Now [https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch]: https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch [14:00] ADVANCED RELIGIOUS LITERACY TRAINING IN KAZAKHSTAN * Recap of the Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy Training held in Almaty, Kazakhstan. * Highlights: * Participation of 15 provincial heads of religious affairs. * Hosted in collaboration with Caspian University and Straus Center for Dispute Resolution. * Interactive sessions led by Dr. Chris Seiple, Dr. Attila Miklovits, and Dr. Sukhsimranjit Singh. * Key moments: * Roundtable discussions with Kazakhstani religious leaders representing Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity. * Government officials’ heartfelt toasts reflecting on their learnings. * Closing remarks from LYNC CEO Wade Kusack on the transformative nature of the program. * Related Link: More on Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy [https://lyncommunity.org/our-work/]: https://lyncommunity.org/our-work/ [21:00] FINAL REFLECTIONS AND CLOSING REMARKS * Gratitude to the global LYNC community for their support throughout 2024. * Teaser for the upcoming report on Kazakhstan's multi-faith engagement efforts. * End with a moving excerpt of a Ukrainian Christmas carol KEY LINKS FROM THE EPISODE * Full Ukraine Trauma Therapy Report: Read Here [https://lyncommunity.org/report/caring-for-ukraines-children-through-trauma-healing-hope-and-critical-care/]: https://lyncommunity.org/report/caring-for-ukraines-children-through-trauma-healing-hope-and-critical-care/ * Support Bukhara Church Rebuilding: Donate Now [https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch]: https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch * Watch LYNC INTERVIEW [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNjAjrFqPorH1gd1iYJkRdOXHOkgTYiOD]: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNjAjrFqPorH1gd1iYJkRdOXHOkgTYiOD Stay Connected: * Website: lyncommunity.org [https://lyncommunity.org] * Facebook: Love Your Neighbor Community [https://www.facebook.com/LoveYourNeighborCommunity] * Twitter: @lyn_community [https://@lyn_community]

Building Peace in Prague, Kazakhstan Travels West, and Businesses as Agents of Religious Pluralism

LYNC RADIO SHOW NOTES Episode Title: Multi-Faith Developments in Prague, Kazakhstan’s Progress, and Businesses as Agents of Peace Host: Jessica Eturralde SEGMENT BREAKDOWN WITH TIME STAMPS [00:00] - Introduction * Host Jessica Eturralde previews the episode, highlighting key topics: * Multi-faith developments in Prague. * Kazakhstan’s growing interreligious engagement. * A feature interview with Dr. Eva Witesman on how businesses contribute to communities beyond financial support. [02:10] - Prague Multi-Faith Conference Recap * Coverage of the multi-faith conference held in Prague in partnership with Czech Ambassador Robert Rehak, LYNC, IRF Secretariat, and Templeton Religion Trust. Notable details include: * Program themes: peacebuilding, countering Islamophobia, and radical ideologies. * Event highlights and key messages, such as fostering tolerance and promoting action. [05:32] - Notable Speakers at the Prague Conference * Highlights from key speakers: * Mohamed Mosaad Abdelaziz Mohamed: Importance of dialogue, trust-building post-conflict, and engagement with radical perspectives. * Hana Bendkowsky: Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) as a call for justice and compassion. * Sheikh Al Mahfoudh Bin Bayyah: The role of the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi as an educational multi-faith space. [13:08] - Greg Mitchell and Ambassador Rehak’s Reflections * IRF CEO Greg Mitchell: Call for multi-faith collaboration, practical takeaways, and future plans to launch regional centers. * Ambassador Robert Rehak: Appeal to attendees to foster dialogue and combat hatred beyond the event. [17:57] - Kazakhstan’s Delegation and Multi-Faith Efforts * Coverage of Kazakhstan’s delegation to Prague and its growing role in promoting interreligious dialogue. * Details from discussions with Vice Minister Kanat Iskakov and other officials: * Emphasis on religious freedom, addressing hate speech, and exploring AI solutions. * Upcoming initiatives such as the cross-cultural religious literacy program at Caspian University. * Quotes from Kazakhstan’s Vice Minister of Culture and Information Kanat Iskakov on the country’s progress and LYNC CEO Wade Kusack on the broader impact of LYNC’s work in Central Asia. [21:52] - Extended Interview: Dr. Eva Witesman * Highlights from the conversation with Dr. Eva Witesman, professor at BYU’s Marriott School of Business: * Corporations as public social spaces influencing religious freedom and social cohesion. * The role of businesses in peacebuilding and addressing community challenges beyond philanthropy. * Call for collaboration between civil society, governments, and businesses to foster sustainable development. * Quote: “It’s not just about profit; businesses are key players in shaping public values and building peace.” * WATCH THE EPISODE [https://youtu.be/ego-uOulSgg] : https://youtu.be/ego-uOulSgg [28:45] - Episode Wrap-Up * Host Jessica Eturralde recaps the episode and encourages listeners to: * Subscribe, like, and share the program. * Tune in for the next episode, which will feature a detailed segment on Kazakhstan’s first ever Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy Program. EPISODE LINKS * Watch the full interview [https://youtu.be/ego-uOulSgg] with Dr. Eva Witesman on the LYNC YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/ego-uOulSgg * View keynotes/panels from the Prague event > Intercultural and Interfaith Dialogue: Freedom of Religion or Belief to Build Peace: https://www.youtube.com/live/37BfCKcYznA?si=aOhbLGZ9xeeH5Zy9 [https://www.youtube.com/live/37BfCKcYznA?si=aOhbLGZ9xeeH5Zy9] CALL TO ACTION If you enjoyed today’s episode, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who would benefit from this content. Together, we can foster more cohesive and inclusive societies. Host: Jessica Eturralde Produced by: Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC) Runtime: ~30 minutes

LYNC RADIO: Responsible Religious Freedom, Another MultiFaith Milestone + Faith, Empathy, Politics

[00:00] Introduction: Jessica previews today’s topics: insights from LYNC INTERVIEW with Dr. Dennis Hoover, highlights from a multi-faith retreat in Uzbekistan, and a recap of a Miami event exploring faith and politics. [02:27] The Grand Bargain with Dr. Dennis Hoover: * Discussion on balancing religious freedom and responsibility, drawing on Mennonite and Amish communities as examples. * Key takeaway: Religious freedom thrives when both governments and faith groups uphold mutual respect and social responsibility. Watch the full LYNC INTERVIEW with Dr. Dennis Hoover: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQ9XNfV88uQ [08:16] Multi-Faith Retreat in Uzbekistan: * Updates on the results of LYNC and MFNN's Train-the-Trainers program and its success in Central Asia. * Local leaders Imam Shovkat Khamdumov and Pastor Oleg Vorojtsov lead a historic retreat aimed at fostering pluralistic virtues and cooperation. * Micah Fries of Multi-Faith Neighbors Network shares insights on the importance of contextual ownership by local leaders. [13:02] Faith and Politics in Miami: * Recap of “The Trinity and Our Political Environment,” a discussion led by Carter Brown on balancing faith, political engagement, and empathy. * Key takeaway: Participants explored seeing the humanity behind divisive political stances and emphasized respect and dignity in dialogue---using a divisive bill on the Florida ballot as an example to discuss. [18:12] Call to Action: * Jessica encourages listeners to support LYNC’s work by liking, subscribing, and sharing the program. * Visit lyncommunity.org [https://lyncommunity.org] to learn more and give to initiatives like the Bukhara Church rebuild. Support the Bukhara Church Rebuild: https://www.mightycause.com/story/Bukharachurch