Paul Knitter, professor of theology at Xavier University, has done extensive studies worldwide on how religious communities can work together to overcomeracial bigotry, ethnic intimidation and anti-Semitism.

        He will talk about his experiences when he addresses the Greater Anderson Promotes Peace (GAPP) speakers series from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. March 29 at Anderson Hills Christian Church, 8119 Clough Pike, Anderson Township.

        Mr. Knitter thinks there is hope in sharing the wisdom of different religions to form the basic foundation of a community.

        “I think it is important that we develop an interreligious dialogue among neighbors,” he said. “I will talk about why we should share the many religions and faith traditions in our community, and how to share them.”

        That is a big order for religion, isn't it — to be the nucleus in a diverse community to bring together its many facets, and halt racial bigotry, ethnic intimidation and anti-Semitism?

        If anybody can start that kind of trend, it probably is Mr. Knitter. He is the author of several books on the subject, dealing with how the religious communities of the world can cooperate in promoting human and ecological well-being.

        “Religions ... themselves cannot solve the major problems of the world,” he said. “In fact, religions have often been used and maybe abused to cause violence and wars. But the one thing religion teaches us is reaching outside ourselves and caring and loving our neighbors. It gives us a reality that is greater than ourselves.”

        Mr. Knitter is on the board of directors for the International Interreligious Peace Council.

        Anderson Township is probably an ideal place to start, because this is where hate literature was passed out twice in 1999 and a house was defaced with anti-Semitic scrawls.

        Louise Lawarre, a co-founder of GAPP, said the group was formed after those incidents to make a statement for harmony in the community.

        “We are here to promote dialogue and foster respect for diversity in our community,” she said.

        MIAMITOWN — Concerned Citizens of Western Hamilton County will meet from 9 to 11 a.m. today at the Miamitown Fire Station, 6736 Ohio 128, to oppose a county traffic corridor plan.

        The group opposes the Hamilton County engineer's efforts to create a major state highway through Harrison, Crosby and Colerain townships.

        The group doesn't like the county's plan to convert 18 miles of scenic, rural roads into a truck corridor.

        A Celtic Lands Culture Fest, including music, dance, art and folklore of Ireland, Scotland and Wales, will highlight the two-day celebration of St. Patrick's Day, from noon to 5 p.m. today at the Cincinnati Museum Center. The festivities continue from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

        Activities are free and open to the public.

        ANDERSON TWP. — Greater Anderson Promotes Peace is continuing its fund drive to build a peace pole in Veterans Park.

        The group has raised $7,500 of its $20,000 goal.

        Commemorative pavers are available for a contribution of $50. For more information, call 588-8391.

        Allen Howard's column runs on Saturdays. Call: 768-8362. Mail: The Cincinnati Enquirer, 312 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202.

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