In a world that too often divides us, a group of interfaith teens from across Greater MetroWest is choosing to do something radical: come together.
The Interfaith Teen Leaders program, now in its second year, isn’t your average after-school activity. These high school students represent a spectrum of faiths: Jewish, Latter-Day Saint, Catholic, Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, Presbyterian, and more. Over the past eight months, they’ve done something many adults struggle to do: they’ve listened. They’ve asked honest questions, shared personal stories, and taken action.
As part of their journey, these teens recently traveled to Washington, D.C. for an overnight experience centered on what it means to be an ally and an upstander in today’s world. They visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
“One of the most impactful parts of the trip was seeing the room of shoes in the Holocaust Museum, which really connected me to the victims,” said Sebastian, a Latter-Day Saint teen. “In the future, I aim to stand for marginalized groups and fight misinformation when I see it.”
At the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the teens paused to reflect on the weight of history, and their role in shaping what comes next.
“After this trip, I look at things differently,” said Jack, a Catholic participant. “I realize a lot of what we are dealing with today, like what happened to Israel on October 7, is because of hate. We need to stand up together.”
That’s exactly what this program fosters: the courage to speak up, the humility to listen, and the belief that change starts with understanding.
“By being educated about different religions, I can stand up when I see harmful misinformation and stereotypes,” said Talia, who is Jewish. “Together, all our communities can stand against hate.”
The weekend wasn’t all museums. The group bonded over escape rooms, exploring the monuments, and deep conversations that often spilled into free time.
“Making new friends and growing relationships truly opened my eyes and helped me learn so much more about these religions,” shared Meral, a Muslim participant. “This program made me realize there’s more hope in our generation, and that we can make a difference.”
“We are more similar than we are different,” said Carleigh, who is Presbyterian. “I really enjoyed seeing the world through different perspectives.”
As the trip wrapped up, what stuck with the teens wasn’t just history. It was possibility.
“Through a genuine desire to learn and improve, we’ve all found ways to make the world a better place,” said Etienne, a Latter-Day Saint. “Being curious instead of judgmental, and setting aside differences, allows us to view each other the way we should—with compassion.”
This program is not just about faith. It’s about future. It’s about raising a generation that chooses connection over division, action over silence, and empathy over assumption.
“This trip gave me time to truly bond with others,” said Caleb, who is Jewish. “We all share important values. I’m excited to stay in touch with these new friends going forward.”
“Listening and learning from one another can bring us closer and help create a more compassionate world,” reflected Naisha, a Hindu participant.
Recruitment is already underway for the next Interfaith Teen Leaders cohort. Rising 10th and 11th graders of all religions are invited to apply now.