The Diane and Guilford Glazer Institute for Jewish Studies
About the Diane and Guilford Glazer Institute for Jewish Studies
"We are closer at our centers than (at) our peripherals, as paradoxical as that may seem."—Reverend Jim Butler, Fuller Theological Seminary, panelist, Common Ground Conference, November 2, 2009
Founded in 2008, the Glazer Institute for Jewish Studies began with the mandate of Micah 6:8 that calls us "to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." This religious calling—shared by all children of Abraham—reflects a fervent call to serve the cause of human rights and social justice, to show mercy toward the weak and the oppressed, and to display humility, tolerance, and yet deep commitment in one’s own faith journey. This calling becomes ever more important in today’s globalized and expanding world. Still, many people of faith remain isolated in their own tradition, guarded and unapprised of other religions. This is particularly true within Christianity and Judaism—these two faiths, still inextricably intertwined, often maintain a wary and distant stalemate. With this in mind, the Glazer Institute works in three major areas to promote dialogue and understanding among the children of Abraham. Through work in the classroom, international opportunities, and co-curricular programs, it continues to expand horizons, challenge stereotypes, and open doors to lives of service, understanding, respect, and faith.
Mission Statement
The Glazer Institute was established based on the understanding that as a Christian University, Pepperdine’s students are especially open to discussions of faith and identity, but are often unacquainted with Christianity’s ongoing relationship with Judaism. The Glazer Institute is designed to increase a majority-Christian academic community’s exposure to, discussion of, and awareness of Judaism, Jewish Studies, and Israel. The Glazer Institute seeks to provide new avenues for students to explore and connect Jewish and Christian identities through various opportunities—curricular and co-curricular.
