In this mini-retreat, we will visit neighboring congregations in Elkins Park (Reformed Congregation Keneseth Israel and St. John’s Lutheran Church).

Each sanctuary’s architecture features stunning stained-glass windows that mediate the teachings of its religious tradition and create an aura of holiness. Rabbi Benjamin David, current Rabbi of KI, and Rev. John Hougen, former pastor of St. John’s, will introduce the content and style of the windows. Program participants and members of the host congregations will share responses to the two sacred spaces and reflect on their similarities and differences.

The Art of Interfaith Understanding tours explore the intersection of art and faith.

Facilitated by Rev. John B. Hougen, PhD, and Rabbi Benjamin David.

Elkins Park, PA. Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel. Sanctuary windows detail, Elijah window (detail). Jacob Landau, artist, 1974.  Photo: Samuel D. Gruber 2019.