On Dec. 1, 2016, Teny Pirri-Simonian organized a visit and lecture at Globethics.net for her “Thinking Through Religion” course at Webster Geneva Campus. Globethics.net is an NGO that focuses on “Dialogue, reflection and action for responsible leadership.” The students travelled to the Ecumenical Centre to hear the executive director of Globethics.net, Dr. Obiora Ike, give a lecture on African Traditional Religions, which was attended by community members and other Globethics.net executives alike.
Dr. Obiora Ike’s lecture was as energetic as it was informative. He brought African traditional religions alive with his folk stories, while explaining the backbone of their faith: belief in God among smaller gods, respecting the earth involving conscientious land ownership, and a substantial family focus.
Students in the course have studied Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and science in an effort to challenge, question and think critically about their teachings and global impacts. The trip to Globethics.net continued this endeavor, by providing the opportunity not only to learn about African traditional religions, but also to learn about ethical principles derived from outside the religious sphere.
Globethics.net and Dr. Obiora Ike hosted a generous event, and we are very thankful for their willingness to share their expertise as well as their hospitality.
Story: Ryan TeKolste, Study Abroad Student, St. Louis
Pictures: Dr. Ignace Haaz, Globethics.net