Tri-faith vision becomes reality in Omaha
Jewish temple, Islamic center, Episcopalian church to exist on 1 property
UPDATED 10:59 PM CST Nov 29, 2012
Tri-faith vision becomes reality in Omaha
A unique vision for religious unity in Omaha is quickly becoming reality.
The concept is to build a Jewish temple, Islamic center, and Episcopalian church all on one property and connected by walkways that meet at a tri-faith center meant to encourage education and understanding.
A recent drawing shows the buildings organizers hope to construct near 132nd and Pacific streets.
As workers put the finishing touches on the new Temple Israel, they're also laying ground for its neighbor: a two-story, 20,000-square-foot Islamic center.
"When they're looking out, they'll be facing the other two faith buildings and the tri-faith building," said Patrick Morgan, of Slaggie Architects, the company designing the Islamic center. "It's going to be so much more than just a place of prayer, which is a mosque."
Morgan is one of three architects transforming the old Ironwood golf course into one campus of three faiths.
The task is a challenge for the architects, because the goal behind the Tri-Faith initiative is big and the plan is unique.
"There is no place in the world where all three faiths purposely said, 'Let's build together so that we can educate people,'" Morgan said.
The buildings, made with similar materials, will face each other and welcome lots of light. The three places of worship will be connected by walkways and a tri-faith center for learning.
"You will have a sense as you come into the neighborhood that the buildings have something in common," said Bob Freeman, the chairman of the board of the Tri-Faith Initiative.
Freeman said he hopes this place of peace will lay the groundwork for a much grander plan.
"If it does work in Omaha, then we will show that it can be done and it can be replicated," he said.
The Islamic center is set to break ground in June. The church and tri-faith center will break ground in 2014. Total completion is expected in 2016.
Read more: http://www.ketv.com/news/local-news/Tri-faith-vision-becomes-reality-in-Omaha/-/9674510/17602272/-/5j704p/-/index.html#ixzz2DvrVVNMM
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