By Shelby Stewart
Staff Writer
So just what can happen when women come together and make friends?
The question will be deliberated at 4 p.m., April 29 at St. Anne Catholic Church, 825 S. Ortonville Road, when Women’s Interfaith Solutions, Dialogue, Outreach in Metro-Detroit (WISDOM) will be coming to give their five women, five journeys talk for the community
“It was because male members of the interfaith community weren’t talking,” said Paula Drewek, a member of the executive board of WISDOM. “If men weren’t able to come to grips with each other, maybe women could.”
The organization focuses on advocating for peace through friendship while also educating the community about the bases of different religions and dispelling stereotypes.
“Let’s see what happens when women get together and make friends,” she said.
The five women, five journeys talk focuses on women of five different faiths and their struggles within their religion as well as in their lives.
Dianne Coin is a retired information technology administrator, and has since been a volunteer tutor for literacy programs. She has taught English classes for Hispanic immigrants and also tutored those looking to learn about the Baha’l faith.
Bobbi Lewis was a former reporter, then worked years in communication for non-profits. Since retiring, she does freelance writing and editing, as well as runs an online food blog called “Feed the Spirit. She is also a member of Congregation Beth Shalom in Oak Park.
Erin O’Connor was raised Roman Catholic, but embraced Islam in 2010, taking pride in her own interfaith family. She is currently an outpatient mental health therapist for children, teens and adults.
Fran Shiovitz Hildebrandt is also a member of Congregation Beth Shalom in Oak Park. Fran is a retired teacher and counselor from Brandon schools where she worked for 25 years until 2010. She also was honored as a Diversity Champion by the Race Relations and Diversity Task Force in the Birmingham/Bloomfield area.
Raj Chel is a psychotherapist and founder of WiseLife LLC. She is a mom, yoga instructor, speaker, author, entrepreneur and co-host of the online radio show ‘Living Life Powerfully.’ She represents her Sikh traditions as a panelist on the Emmy award-winning television show Interfaith Odyssey.
“This is an important program for St. Anne and our community,” said Karyn Milligan, Christian service coordinator. “We have invited all the other area churches and those in our Vicariate to come and join us and bring your open heart and hear for yourself how much we are alike than different.”
Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Milligan at 248-627-3965, ext. 103.