The Ecumenical Institute for Jewish-Christian Studies



www.j-cinstitute.org

Basic History
The Ecumenical Institute for Jewish-Christian Studies was founded in 1982 by Rev. Dr. James R. Lyons to provide an atmosphere for study in Jewish-Christian relations that would impact local churches and synagogues as well as the larger community. Combining the latest scholarship with practical outreach, the Ecumenical Institute promotes Jewish-Christian understanding that moves beyond tolerance to active affirmation of one another.

Basic Beliefs
Ecumenical originally was used by Christians to express the idea of Christian unity. The Ecumenical Institute for Jewish-Christian Studies, however, use it to emphasize the shared agenda of Jews and Christians working together to deepen understanding and respect for each other while, at the same time, celebrating individual differences. The words Institute and Studies refer to their unique work. Good will in the community is important and it is what the institute’s work is based on. 

The mission of the Ecumenical Institute is to present the best scholarship on the issues of Jewish-Christian relations in order to ensure the best mutual understanding and respect for generations to come.

Jewish-Christian specifies the institute’s focus. While recognizing the significant value of inter-religious relations, they choose to focus on the relationship of two people, Jews and Christians, and two faiths, Judaism and Christianity. While confronting the sins of the past they work together to recover the relationship of mutual support and respect lost many centuries ago.

Leadership
Executive Director – David Blewett
Program Director – Barbara Yuhas

Basic Facts
The Ecumenical Institute addresses the historical development, current practices and implications of anti-Semitism, social as well as theological. As Christians and Jews they challenge the inaccurate teachings of the past and explore new ways to understand and appreciate each other.

The foundation of the Institute’s program is the education programs conducted in churches and synagogues, schools, universities and civic groups by David Blewett and the Institute’s Speakers Bureau. They can provide speakers to help groups understand how each community celebrates holidays, educate each faith group on the others’ faith traditions, and speak on topics such as the Holocaust and Israel as well as other topics of interest to Jews and Christians. 

Location
The Ecumenical Institute for Jewish-Christian Studies
17117 West Nine Mile Road
Suite 1407
Southfield, MI 48075
Phone (248) 557-4522
Fax (248) 557-4527