Milwaukee Dinners Bridge Interfaith Divides

The Interfaith Conference of Greater Milwaukee hosts monthly Amazing Faiths Dinner Dialogues where people of all faiths gather to share meals and build connections. The program, active since the 1970s but significantly broadened after 9/11, now draws over 50 attendees to church halls. Participants sit at small tables and respond to prompts designed to encourage deep listening and appreciative inquiry, rather than debate.

The dinners began in private homes but expanded due to growing interest. Attendees like Monica Gramling report feeling more connected to others after each event, recognizing shared values despite differing beliefs. Organizers believe these conversations are especially important given current global conflicts, offering a space for authentic interfaith relationships.

The next dinner is scheduled for July 29 at Deer Creek Senior Village in New Berlin, Wisconsin, continuing a tradition of fostering understanding through shared experiences.