Newton Teenagers Put Their Faith On Canvas

February 10, 2009

Author: Chrissie Long

Source: Wicked Local Newton

http://www.wickedlocal.com/newton/news/x1848775206/Newton-teenagers-put-their-faith-on-canvas

Arching around a human-sized globe, ribbons of crosses, stars and crescent moons form the focal point of a 10-foot high mural on display in a West Newton synagogue.

In a swirl of colors that blend the emblems of the Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths, the painting stitches together the brush strokes of 16 Boston-area teenagers.

While the canvas pays tribute to several nights of planning and painting, it’s the discussions and conversation behind the mural that represent the real accomplishment.

“This was always about community building,” said Newton resident Stuart Snyder, who stood looking up at the mural on a recent Friday evening. “I am really touched by the discussion that has happened ... That, to me, is the finished product.”

Since September, Snyder, who spearheaded the project, has driven a group of Newton teenagers from Congregation Dorshei Tzedek to a Boys and Girls Club in Allston, where they met with peers from other faiths. Over the course of their time together, they shared traditions, beliefs and paintbrushes as they worked on the area’s first-ever Interfaith Youth Mural.

“I think the world has so many prejudices, even here in America and even in Newton,” said Ethan Zolit, 17, who accompanied Snyder from Dorshei Tzedek. “This project really opened my eyes to other religions. As different as they all are, there are so many similarities, and there are so many ways you can relate.”