Consider using this week's observance of World Humanitarian Day as an opportunity to take your message of hope and justice even further. Also in the news this week, more than 1 billion Muslims around the world will prepare to observe Ramadan which is one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar.  For the week of August 9, let the Auburn Web site point you to documentary video, podcasts and other stories to strengthen your message to trouble the waters and heal the world.

On the Auburn Web site:  Auburn's Religious Voice of the Week is Wangari Maathai, who inspired a nation through a simple act that began with the roots of the earth.  Let her message inspire you to think about the possibilities of World Humanitarian Day by clicking here.

This World Humanitarian Day, hear powerful stories on the Auburn Web site...Click here for a  podcast from Auburn's partner StoryCorps that tell s the story of how an ordinary person did something extraordinary and started a school for kids in India.   And click here to watch a scene from the documentary Taking Root:  The Vision of Wangari Maathai to hear more of her inspiring story.  Auburn recommends using this documentary in your community of faith. Click here to learn more about this film as a leadership tool for your community.

This week, more than 1 billion Muslims around the world will prepare to observe Ramadan.  Here are some key resources to help your community grow in understanding around Islam.  Click here to watch Muslim author and activist Irshad Manji be a voice for Muslim freedom and understanding through the documentary Faith Without Fear. Documentary Resources Looking for a teaching tool to help your community grow in their understanding about Muslims? Auburn recommends ChangeTheStory.net as an excellent resource in Muslim understanding. Click here to watch this great music video that tells a powerful story. Click here to learn more about Islam. Both these resources are available at ChangeTheStory.net and click here to learn more. Auburn also recommends the documentary New Muslim Cool to learn more about Muslim voices called to bridge build across religious traditions. Click here for more.

Looking Ahead:  Auburn is planning for Back to School!  Start your planning now and use the Auburn Web site as a tool to help trouble the waters and heal the world.  For more ideas contact the Rev. Kellie Anderson-Picallo, Associate for Media and Education at Auburn Seminary.