Cohort XV fellows exchange perspectives at the Shalom Hartman Institute
At the end of 2024, The Russell Berrie Foundation concluded active support for the alumni network of the Russell Berrie Fellowship in Interreligious Studies. The John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue, under the leadership of Dr. Adam Afterman, will continue to operate for the next several years as an academic institution in partnership with the Angelicum.
The decision to wind down the Fellowship and its alumni network was prompted by the Foundation’s intent to spend down its resources and close its doors in 2033. Ending this initiative inevitably comes with sadness as we honor the care and dedication that 15 outstanding cohorts of fellows invested in the program. At the same time, it reflects our immense pride in building a global network of religious leaders grounded in interfaith issues and skilled in effective leadership.
Fellows enjoy the view above Jerusalem
We extend heartfelt thanks to our program partners and leaders for growing this initiative into a significant force for progress in the field, with special gratitude for Founding Director Rabbi Jack Bemporad’s and Dr. Afterman’s visionary leadership. They made the dream of a center for interreligious dialogue and action – housed at a Vatican Pontifical University and supported by a foundation rooted in Jewish values – a vibrant reality.
We also celebrate the more than 130 alumni working in 40 countries who, through their efforts to promote cooperation and understanding across faith traditions, embody the vision and values that guided the Fellowship and the John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue. We know they’ll continue to advance peace and the common good of humanity, reflecting the program's legacy of leadership and positive change.
Foundation President Angelica Berrie and several members of the staff were especially grateful to connect via Zoom in December with many Fellows from around the globe – together with Rabbi Bemporad and Dr. Afterman. This celebration of the meaningful work and relationships that this program inspired is available to watch on the JP2 Center Vimeo channel.