U of G Multi-Faith Team Receives Peace Medal
October 22, 2009 - News Release
The University of Guelph’s Multi-Faith Resource Team (MFRT) was presented with the YMCA Peace Medal at a ceremony today. The group is being honoured at the YMCA-YWCA of Guelph’s 115th annual general meeting for its ecumenical work in support of University students and staff.
With representatives from many faiths and religions, including various Christian denominations, Islam, Judaism and Hinduism, the MFRT serves the U of G community in developing the spiritual dimensions of people’s lives and through programs that focus on peace and social justice issues.
“These activities have been well-received by the University community and have contributed to a greater awareness of world issues and promoted more effective communication between religious groups and faiths,” said Bruno Mancini, director of Student Life and Counselling Services. “For all their efforts and accomplishments, the MFRT is a deserving recipient of the YMCA Peace Medal. It’s a great honour for the University.”
Examples of the MFRT’s efforts include organizing annual Peace Week activities and Holocaust Awareness Week, involvement in Sustainability Day, encouraging understanding across traditional divides through Faith Week events, and supporting international efforts such as the Masai for Africa campaign and Prof. Cate Dewey’s Children of Bukati project.
“Members of the team have been stewards of peace and tolerance,” said James Bonk, CEO of the Guelph YMCA-YWCA. “Their active participation in numerous events and support of the Masai for Africa campaign have made a positive impact on life at the University and in the wider Guelph community.”
Contact:
Jamie VanderBerg
Multi-Faith Resource Team
519 824-4120 Ext. 52392
javander@uoguelph.ca
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs: Lori Bona Hunt, Ext. 53338 or lhunt@uguelph.ca, or Barry Gunn, Ext. 56982 or bagunn@uoguelph.ca.
