Multifaith Spaces: History, Development, Design and Practice

by Terry Biddington

Overview

Multifaith spaces reflect the diversity of the modern world and enable a connection between individuals from different religious backgrounds. These spaces also highlight the complex and sensitive areas of political and social debates regarding the emergence of densely urbanised populations. They hold the potential to encourage connection and dialogue between members of different communities, promoting empathy, community and shared activity for the betterment of society.

This book explores the history, development, design and practicalities of multifaith spaces from the early shared religious buildings that had to cater for two or more faiths, to the shared multifaith spaces of modern secular locations such as universities, airports and hospitals. Terry Biddington looks at the architectural, theological, social, legal and practical complexities that arise from the development and use of such spaces. The book also draws together research to enable further development of multifaith spaces.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781784508678
Publisher:	Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Publication date:	09/21/2020
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	224
File size:	1 MB

About the Author

The Revd Dr Terry Biddington FRSA is Dean of Spiritual Life and Director of the Winchester Institute for Contemplative Education&Practice and Lecturer in Practical Theology.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements 9

Foreword Dr Simon Roffey 15

1 The History of Multifaith Space 17

2 Into the 21st Century 37

3 In the Wider Community 61

4 Designing Multifaith Space 87

5 Multifaith in the Public Realm 119

6 Experiencing Multifaith Space 147

Endnotes 179

References 197

Subject Index 213

Author Index 221

Editorial Reviews

Terry Biddginton's superb examination of multifaith spaces will make a big contribution to inter-religious understanding. It offers an encyclopaedia of examples of the many ways in which people have wrestled with the dilemmas of creating multifaith spaces. Equally it provides a clear-sighted analysis of the underlying challenges and tensions which must be negotiated to enable the cohabitation of different faiths. It's a book whose relevance and usefulness will surely increase in the future.

Simon Keyes

This book is the first in depth study on multifaith spaces, examining the new shape religion is taking in today's institutions. A 'must read' for all engaged in planning, creating and running similar projects and all who want to get a understanding of one way in which religion is back in the public sphere with powerful symbols of peace and integration in diversity.

Martin Rötting