The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. Most of you are probably familiar with this beautiful building, but are you aware of its significant infusion of Byzantine Christian architectural & artistic traditions? According to Ana Botchkareva of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (also known simply as The Met), “the overall form of the architectural dome follows the Byzantine model of churches & martyriums (structures designed to house relics); & the mosaics decorating its interior draw extensively on Byzantine mosaic techniques & aesthetics in their execution of vegetal motifs... the architectural & decorative programs are heavily indebted to the Byzantine Christian artistic tradition, which [the Muslims] recombine & reinterpret...” The Dome of the Rock, in short, symbolizes the benefits & glories of cross-cultural encounters & interreligious dialogue. We are always blending & borrowing from the best of each other’s traditions. I hope we always do so.
Meet Pastor Gregor Hohberg, Rabbi Andreas Nachama, and Imam Kadir Sanci. These three leaders are behind the House of One interfaith initiative in Berlin, Germany. Also referred to as the “Churmosquagogue,” this unique building will be the home to a synagogue, church, and mosque, all under the same roof of a single structure, and built around a central meeting place, which will serve as a symbol of human fraternity and coexistence. I have posted a piece on my blog to share more details about the House of One, which I certainly support. You can check out my blog at craigconsidinetcd.com.
