Interfaith Festival aims to help kids ‘choose hope over ignorance and violence’

Kids from all different faiths will gather on the weekend of Sept. 24 to the 25 for a celebration of interfaith unity with fun and educational activities.

The theme of the event this year is “Choosing Hope,” which was chosen by a Youth Advisory Council that included Christian, Jewish, Buddhist and Muslim youth ages 12 to 18. Many of the festival activities were designed and organized by the Council, including a “Hope Village” exhibit centering around the message of the interfaith community in “Choosing Hope.”

Neomosha Nelson, executive director of Metropolitan Christian Council of Philadelphia, said the children came up with the theme as a result of discussing the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

“They decided that it sends a message of choosing hope over ignorance and violence,” said Nelson.

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Activities at the festival are for children as well as their families. There will be exhibits set up for health and fitness, including an obstacle course, arts and crafts, technology, youth entrepreneurship, urban gardening, a “Kiddie Land” exhibit featuring a petting zoo.

A variety of cultural exhibits and international foods will be available to teach the children about different cultural life. The American Sign Language group will be in attendance to provide lessons and a demonstration. Entertainment and music will include performances by the children throughout the weekend.

The festival will be held at New Covenant Church, 7500 Germantown Avenue, on Saturday, Sept. 24, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 25, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, go to www.interfaithchildrensfestival.com.

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