Dr. Devorah Schoenfeld feels in today’s diverse world, it is pertinent for people of different religions to understand each other respectfully. She believes that is even more important for college students. 

“It is essential for others to learn from their own tradition, while still respecting others,” Schoenfeld said. “College students are in the process of learning how to think critically of the world, and learning how to understand one another’s religion will allow them to think more empathetically.”

Schoenfeld, assistant professor of theology (Judaism) at Loyola University of Chicago, will deliver the annual Jewish-Christian-Muslim Dialogue Monday, Feb. 10, at 7 p.m. in the Student Union Auditorium.

The free, public dialogue is hosted by UT’s Center for Religious Understanding.

During the 2014 lecture titled “Agreeing to Disagree: The Power of Sacred Dissent,” Schoenfeld will teach participants how to respectfully oppose a view through the sacred Jewish practice of “hevruta,” which is a form of learning that invites individuals to dispute the interpretation of a religious text.

“I’m thrilled to have Professor Schoenfeld come help us learn how to disagree with each other in real, honest ways, even about some of our most deeply held beliefs,” said Dr. Jeanine Diller, UT assistant professor of philosophy and director of the Center for Religious Studies.

Other speakers at the event will be UT’s Dr. Ovamir Anjum, the Iman Khattab Chair of Islamic Studies, and Dr. Peter Feldmeier, the Thomas and Margaret Murray and James J. Bacik Professor of Catholic Studies.

A free reception with refreshments will open the event. There also will be a free dinner for UT students at 5 p.m. at the Hillel House.