6th Annual MLK Teach-in
2024-01-13 10:00 - 12:00 UTC
In January, George will participate in the 6th annual MLK Teach-in at the invitation of Friendship-West Baptist Church.
This year’s MLK Teach-in will focus on King’s progressive and revolutionary missions and ministry while empowering individuals to participate in and lead movements for justice locally and globally.
In light of an impending significant presidential election, ongoing global conflicts and wars, the pressing border crises, and deprivation of fundamental rights, including voter and reproductive rights, climate change, and other critical issues, it’s essential to reflect on Dr. King’s call for a Revolution of Values.

North Texas Faith Votes
2024-02-03 12:30 - 16:00 UTC
Join faith communities from across North Texas for an afternoon of networking and hands-on civic engagement training.

Learn how your congregation can mobilize voters
Hear from local election officials
Connect with other faith leaders committed to public witness in civic engagement

Register here: https://texasimpact.org/event/community-event-north-texas-faith-votes/

Faith Leaders Luncheon: Advocates of Humanity
2024-02-13 11:30 - 13:30 UTC
Advocates of Humanity: New Language for Faith Leaders to Speak about the War in Israel and Gaza
Conversation with Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger and Noor A’wad
$10 | Students Free | Lunch Served
Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger and Noor A’wad are leaders of the West Bank-based Roots/Shorashim/Judur, an Israeli-Palestinian initiative for understanding, non-violence, and transformation.
Even in this time of unprecedented violence, distrust, and division, Roots is persisting in a vision of a future that upholds the humanity of all Israelis and Palestinians.
Come hear the language they are using to move beyond the present reality and resist the further entrenchment of hatred between these two peoples, who are forever destined to live together.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/faith-leaders-luncheon-advocates-of-humanity-tickets-814103143417?aff=oddtdtcreator

Healing from Racism and Oppression Conference: South Africa and the Latinx Experience
2024-04-26 08:30 - 15:30 UTC
On April 26, 2024 Faith Commons, Perkins’s School of Theology’s Baptist House of Studies Program, Fellowship Southwest, Baylor Scott and White Health and some key individual donors are hosting a conference entitled “Healing from Racism and Oppression: South Africa and the Latinx Experience.” featuring Fr. Michael Lapsley and Sandy Ovalle as speakers.
Fr. Lapsley is currently the Director of the Institute for the Healing of Memories in Cape Town, South Africa. He is an Anglican priest and social justice activist who was severely injured by a letter bomb sent to him in Zimbabwe where he had been exiled by the South African government for his anti-apartheid work. He founded the Institute for the Healing of Memories in 1998 to seek to contribute to lasting and collective healing that makes possible a more peaceful and just future.
Sandy Ovalle is the Director of Campaigns and Mobilizing for Sojourners. She is a table setter and space-curator, rooting her work in the deep faith and strength of Chicanx and Latinx spiritual teachers. She engages around different justice areas including climate and environmental justice, immigration, women and girls and peace and nonviolence.
The conference will take place at SMU’s Perkins School of Theology from 8:30 to 3:30 on 4/26/24. We are hoping to draw seminary students, chaplains, local clergy and interested lay persons to the conference.
Virtual and in-person registration options are available here.

Rally for Gun Violence Prevention and NRA Accountability
2024-05-18 09:00 - 12:00 UTC
On Saturday, May 18, Faith Commons is joining Students and Moms Demand Action supporters, Texas Impact, community gun violence prevention leaders, survivors of gun violence, coalition partners, and faith leaders to host a rally for gun violence prevention and NRA accountability at Dallas City Hall Plaza from 9 a.m. to noon. The rally is scheduled in parallel with the National Rifle Association’s annual conference, which is being held in Dallas from May 16–19.
We will use the time to honor those impacted by gun violence, memorialize those taken by gun violence, and commit to taking meaningful action to help keep our communities safe. We will also hold the NRA accountable for shielding bad actors in the gun industry, demanding that the gun industry executives reform their business practices and take responsibility for their role in our gun violence epidemic.
REGISTER HERE

Under G-d: Screening and Discussion on Why Abortion Bans Violate Religious Freedom
2024-06-17 19:30 - 21:00 UTC
Under G-d is a 22-minute documentary film that weaves together the stories of a mother and activist in Indiana, a rabbi in Florida and lawyers throughout the country fighting abortion bans on the grounds of religious freedom as they seek to protect women—and democracy—by preserving the Constitutional right of separation of church and state.
Panel discussion on why abortion bans violate religious freedom to follow the screening with:

Rachel Laser, President and CEO, Americans United for Separation of Church and State
Rev. Erika Ferguson, CEO, Envision Justice, The Tubman Travel Project
Moderated by Rev. Dr. George Mason, President, Faith Commons

Register here: https://www.mobilize.us/au/event/620361/
Access the free screening guide here.

Free "Bad Faith" Screening & Panel Discussion
2024-09-19 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
Join Faith Commons, Good Faith Media and the First Amendment Clinic at SMU’s Dedman School of Law for a screening of the documentary film, Bad Faith.
Panel discussion to follow with Anne Nelson (award-winning investigative journalist and author of Shadow Network), Tennessee Rep. Justin Jones (minister, community leader, and one of “The Tennessee Three”) and Rabbi Nancy Kasten (Chief Relationship Officer at Faith Commons).
Moderated by Mara Richards Bim (Clemons Fellow at Baptist News Global and Program Director at Faith Commons)
Thursday, September 19, 2024
Doors open at 6:00; Screening begins at 6:30
Underwood Law Library Building
Walsh Classroom #125
6550 Hillcrest Ave, Dallas, TX 75205
Light refreshments | REGISTER HERE

Fellowship Southwest's Compassion and Justice Conference 2024
2024-09-20 08:30 - 2024-09-21 15:00 (America/Chicago)
The Compassion & Justice Conference will bring together people and organizations from different backgrounds to worship, grow, pray, and take action.
You will have the opportunity to hear and learn from the prophetic and diverse voices of leading advocates, pastors, and practitioners who will focus on Fellowship Southwest‘s four priorities of work: Immigration, Indigenous Topics, Hunger, and Racial Justice. Click here to learn about the speakers and the schedule.
The FSW tag line is “Compassion, Justice, Connection.” This year, the Compassion & Justice Conference is focusing especially on that third pillar of connection. You will be invited to dialogue, share your experiences and gain wisdom from others doing similar work. Be encouraged to expand your networks and partner with other like-minded leaders.
Faith Commons is proud to be a sponsor of this event.
You can register for the event here.

A Weekend with Jim Wallis
2024-09-28 18:30 - 2024-09-29 12:00 (America/Chicago)
Saturday, September 28, 2024, spend the evening at Northaven UMC as Jim Wallis discusses his newest book against white Christian nationalism. Then return for Sunday worship to hear a sermon from Rev. Wallis.
Register here.

Should We Worry? Christian Nationalism in Our Schools
2024-10-21 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
Join the Conversation
If you are a community member, an educator, or a parent concerned about the future of our schools, we invite you to learn about recent proposals to include Bible-related content in Texas K-5 curriculum. We’ll explore the implications for school diversity, fairness, and respect for religious freedom.
Why Attend?

Gain Expert Insights: Understand the realities of Christian nationalism in education.
Discover Legal Implications: Get informed about the legal landscape surrounding religious influence in schools.
Take Action: Find out how to advocate effectively for a more inclusive educational environment.

Reserve your free tickets & review the panel bios here.

Nationwide MLK Teach-In
2025-01-18 10:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Join us on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 10:00 am—in person and online—for a National MLK Teach-In. This event will reclaim the mission and ministry of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., meet people where they are, guide them through discussions about Dr. King’s commitment to radical change, and prepare participants to engage in meaningful movement-building.
Rev. Dr. George Mason will be part of the Dallas panel at Friendship-West Baptist Church, offering his insights alongside other distinguished speakers. Register here to indicate whether you’ll participate online or in person.

The Beloved Community: Resisting Domination
2025-01-25 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
Join Us for a Special MLK Celebration: “The Beloved Community: Resisting Domination”
On Saturday, January 25th, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (with a continental breakfast from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m.), Salem Institutional Baptist Church in Dallas will host an inspiring MLK celebration. This event, presented by the Black/Africana Church Studies Program at SMU Perkins School of Theology, will explore the theme of “The Beloved Community: Resisting Domination.”
Keynote speaker Dr. Jason Shelton, Professor of Sociology and Director of the Center for African American Studies at UT Arlington, will share insights from his groundbreaking work on religion, race, and the dynamics of the Black Church. The event will be moderated by Dr. Michael Greene, Director of the Black/Africana Church Studies Program at SMU.
Don’t miss this opportunity for thoughtful dialogue and community engagement.
For more information, visit smu.edu/perkins or email Dr. Michael Greene at mgreene@mail.smu.edu.

Zurawski v. Texas: Movie Screening & Panel Discussion
2025-02-19 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
Join us for a screening of the documentary Zurawski v. Texas, followed by a panel discussion. This special event is held in conjunction with NCJW’s 2025 Repro Shabbat, an annual event occurring around the time the Jewish community reads Parshat Mishpatim and honors its commitment to reproductive freedom.
The acclaimed documentary exposes the harsh realities of being pregnant in a state with abortion bans and attests to the bravery and resilience of those who speak out.
FEATURING
Rabbi Nancy Kasten, Chief Relationship Officer at Faith Commons
Dr. Kim Vernon, OB-GYN (retired), Vernon & Waldrep OB-Gyn Associates
Rev. Deneen Robinson, Executive Director of Truth Pregnancy Resource Center
To purchase tickets, click here.

Assault on Dignity: The Impact of Gun Violence in America
2025-03-20 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)

Telling the Story of Religion in Texas through Journalism
2025-04-08 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago)
Religion is central to the story of Texas—but its rich complexity often goes untold. Texas is more than the “buckle of the Bible Belt.” It’s a dynamic mosaic of religions, from the largest number of evangelical Protestants in the U.S. to one of the largest Muslim populations, the second-largest Hindu population, and a rapidly growing group of Texans with no religious affiliation.
How is this diversity of faith represented in the media? What stories are being told—and what’s being overlooked?
Join Texas Tribune Events Tuesday, April 8 at Southern Methodist University in Dallas as they convene Texas journalists, public scholars, and community leaders to explore how religion shapes our state and how journalism captures its evolving role.
The daylong symposium is presented by the Institute for Diversity and Civic Life, Religion News Service, Southern Methodist University’s Department of Religious Studies and The Texas Tribune. The event is sponsored by The Eula May & John Baugh Foundation, The Henry Luce Foundation and Humanities Texas.
Together, we’ll:
• Survey the current state of religion reporting in Texas.
• Examine religion’s importance in telling the full story of Texas.
• Highlight underrepresented communities, issues, and perspectives.
• Discuss journalism’s role in shaping public understanding of faith.
The symposium will be held at SMU’s Moody Auditorium at Frances Anne Moody Hall, 6404 Airline Road, Dallas, TX 75205.
Light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Register here.

37th Annual Conference of the Professions: Artificial Intelligence in the Professions
2025-05-23 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
Join us for the 37th Annual Conference of the Professions – a gathering of professionals from law, theology, and medicine to discuss AI
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/37th-annual-conference-of-the-professions-tickets-1264426647139
Conference Theme:
Artificial Intelligence in the Professions: Examining Its Influence and Our Ethical Responsibilities
Conference Description:
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve and permeate various professional fields, it is imperative to understand its ethical landscape. This year’s conference will bring together law, medicine, and clergy professionals to explore AI’s evolving role in professional practice and discuss if and how AI should be integrated into the professions. We will examine how AI can both enhance and challenge professional practices, delving into the ethical implications that arise as this developing technology integrates into law, healthcare, and religious communities. We aim to guide professionals in navigating the complexities of AI while maintaining their ethical responsibility to society.
Keynote Speakers:

Dr. Deborah Johnson, Anne Shirley Carter Olsson Professor of Applied Ethics, Emeritus, in the Department of Engineering and Society within the University of Virginia’s School of Engineering (retired)
Mr. Aamer Charania, Global Head of Applied Machine Learning at Best Buy and Founder of Dallas AI

Panelists:

Dr. Robert Hunt, Professor of Christian Mission and Interreligious Relations Director of Global Theological Education, Southern Methodist University.
Dr. Mujeeb Basit, Associate Professor Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern.
Mr. Michael Pegues, Adjunct Professor of Law & Shareholder, Polsinelli

Moderated by: Dr. Dallas Gingles, Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program, Assistant Dean of Hybrid Education, Associate Professor of Practice in Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics, Southern Methodist University

Together in Welcome: Faith Communities for Immigrants, Refugees, and Asylum Seekers
2025-07-21 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Temple Shalom, 6930 Alpha Rd, Dallas, TX, 75240, United States
Hosted by Temple Shalom and NCJW Dallas, this interfaith vigil is part of HIAS’ national Together in Welcome initiative. It offers a time for reflection, remembrance, and solidarity with immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Grounded in the Jewish value of hachnasat orchim—welcoming the stranger—the vigil invites our community to stand together for justice, compassion, and dignity for all who seek safety.
RSVP here.

Jewish-Christian Relations in the Wake of October 7 and the War in Gaza
2025-10-16 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Northway Christian Church, 7202 West Northwest Highway, Dallas, TX, 75225, United States
This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.
Jewish-Christian relations in Israel are deeply shaped by the unique character of the state of Israel. Founded as a Jewish state, it is the only country in the world where national holidays follow the Jewish calendar, the weekend coincides with the Jewish sabbath, and Jewish faith and culture permeate daily life. At the same time, Israel was established with the values of a liberal democracy. Its Proclamation of Independence promised “complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race or sex.”
Today, those democratic values are under strain. The current government is pursuing a national agenda that has undermined equal rights for citizens of all faiths, placing new pressures on religious minorities. The war in Gaza and the events of October 7 have further deepened tensions and reshaped relationships among Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities in the Holy Land.
Faith Commons invites you to a conversation with Hana Bendcowsky and John Munayer, two respected leaders from Jerusalem whose work is rooted in dialogue, education, and peacebuilding.
About the Speakers
Hana Bendcowsky is the Program Director of the Jerusalem Center for Jewish-Christian Relations (JCJCR). With nearly three decades of experience in interfaith education, Hana teaches in universities, seminaries, and government programs across Israel and abroad. She leads study tours in Jerusalem’s Christian Quarter and has particular expertise in the Christian communities of Israel and Jewish-Christian relations in the Israeli context.
John Munayer serves as Director of International Engagement for Musalaha, an organization dedicated to reconciliation and relationship-building between Israelis and Palestinians. Born and raised in Jerusalem, John has been active in dialogue initiatives since a young age and holds advanced degrees in international relations, theology, and religious studies from universities in Edinburgh, Amsterdam, and London. His work explores Palestinian Christian identity, Palestinian theology, and interreligious understanding.
Together, Hana and John will discuss how the current political climate affects religious minorities in Israel, how Jewish-Christian relations are evolving in this moment, and what these realities can teach those of us seeking to live out our faith responsibly in the United States.

Who Is My Neighbor?
2025-10-26 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Royal Lane Baptist Church, 6707 Royal Ln, Dallas, TX, 75230, United States
Faith Commons and Royal Lane Baptist Church invite you to explore the experiences of local neighbors who will share their personal stories of resilience, faith, and advocacy. Together we will reflect on what it means to live out the command to love our neighbors in today’s world.
Event details:
Sunday, October 26, 2025
5:00–6:30 PM
Royal Lane Baptist Church
6707 Royal Ln, Dallas, TX 75230
Speakers:

Sandra Avalos, Dreamer and immigrant activist
Pastor Isabel Marquez, Lead Pastor at Gracia Viva en Oak Lawn UMC
Eric Cedillo, National Legal Advisor for LULAC and president of Dallas MABA

This program is designed to spark dialogue and deepen our connections with immigrants in our community and beyond.
Open to the public. Registration not required.

The Future Is Peace: : A Conversation with Aziz Abu Sarah and Maoz Inon
2026-05-16 14:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Temple Emanu-El • Dallas, Texas, 8500 Hillcrest Rd, Dallas, 75225, United States
Register Here →
Overview

A public conversation on peace, reconciliation, and a future beyond division.

On May 16, Faith Commons is honored to host Aziz Abu Sarah and Maoz Inon, co-authors of The Future Is Peace: A Shared Journey Across the Holy Land. Their conversation will explore what can emerge when people refuse the logic of revenge and insist on the dignity of every human life.
Abu Sarah and Inon do not speak about peace from a distance. One is Palestinian. One is Israeli. Each has endured searing personal loss within a conflict that continues to wound communities and public life. What makes their witness so compelling is not that they avoid the truth of suffering. It is that they face it directly and still argue that another future is possible.
This event offers space for reflection at a time when public discourse so often rewards certainty, outrage, and division. Their story invites a harder question: what does it look like to reject despair without denying pain?
Abu Sarah and Inon will be introduced by Dr. Natali Levin Schwartz, an expert in theories of change and the role of narratives in addressing violence.
All proceeds from the event will support the work of InterAct.
2:00 Program
Followed by a Reception for Event Sponsors
