Chesapeake Champions Interfaith Breakfast: A milestone event unites 140 attendees

This past November, the Chesapeake region witnessed a groundbreaking event— the Chesapeake Champions Interfaith Breakfast—bringing together over 140 attendees for a morning of inspiration, collaboration, and action. Modeled after the National Prayer Breakfast, this event was the first of its kind in the region and marked an important step in fostering greater unity and collective action across diverse faith communities.

Held at Oakland Mills Interfaith Center (OMI) and sponsored by US Wind, iSTORMWATER, Interfaith Power and Light (DC.MD.NoVA), Solar Landscape, and the Jewish Federation of Howard County; the event aimed to amplify the collective voice of the faith community, urging them to take action on critical issues while also forging stronger relationships with decision-makers. And by all accounts, the breakfast was a resounding success.

A Powerful Gathering of Faith Leaders and Legislators

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including the keynote address delivered by Montgomery County Delegate Lorig Charkoudian, who spoke passionately about the role of faith communities in advocating for environmental sustainability, social justice, and legislative progress.

Alongside Delegate Charkoudian, attendees heard from a distinguished group of guest speakers, including:

  • Araf Apache, Emissary of the Piscataway Indian Nation, who shared his community's connection to the land and the importance of indigenous voices in environmental policy.
  • Senator Clarence Lam and Delegate Jessica Feldmark from Howard County, who highlighted legislative initiatives that promote environmental conservation and social equity.
  • Baltimore City Councilman Mark Conway, who also serves as Vice President of the Chesapeake Conservancy, discussed urban sustainability and the need for local leadership in tackling climate change.
  • Matt Stegman, Esq. from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, focused on the intersection of environmental health and faith-based activism.
  • Joelle Novey, Director of Interfaith Power and Light, underscored the power of interfaith cooperation in addressing climate change and environmental degradation.

Table Discussions: Legislators and Faith Leaders in Dialogue

Following the guest addresses, participants engaged in dynamic table discussions, where faith leaders and legislators came together to share insights, discuss challenges, and brainstorm actionable solutions. It was a unique opportunity for attendees to build relationships with key policymakers and deepen their understanding of how faith-based communities can drive change.

With a diverse range of legislators in attendance— including Senator Benjamin Brooks, Delegate Regina Boyce, Delegate Jennifer Terrassa, and Council Member Laurie-Anne Sayles—participants had the opportunity to engage with those directly shaping policy in the state and local governments. These discussions proved to be both enriching and inspiring, fostering a sense of collective responsibility toward creating a better future.

Media Coverage and Community Impact

The event did not go unnoticed by the wider community. The Jewish Times recently published a feature highlighting the Chesapeake Champions Interfaith Breakfast as a historic moment for the region, noting how the gathering brought together a broad spectrum of faith traditions and political leaders for a common cause. The publication emphasized the importance of faith communities in influencing environmental and social policy, recognizing the event as a model for future interfaith collaborations.

This mention in the Jewish Times not only amplified the reach of the event but also underscored its significance in the larger movement to unite faith groups for social and environmental justice.

A Call to Action: Strengthening Partnerships

As the event drew to a close, closing remarks emphasized the call to action. The Chesapeake Champions Interfaith Breakfast was not just a moment of reflection but a stepping stone toward future collaboration. Faith leaders and legislators left the event with a renewed sense of purpose—strengthened by shared experiences and the desire to work together to address the urgent challenges facing our communities.

The event concluded with a group photo and an optional tour of the OMI watershed restoration projects, showcasing local efforts to protect and restore the environment, a testament to the ongoing commitment of faith communities and local leaders to protect the Chesapeake Bay and beyond.

What's Next?

This inaugural event has set the stage for future gatherings aimed at strengthening interfaith partnerships and elevating the voices of those committed to justice, equity, and environmental stewardship. As we move forward, the Chesapeake Champions Interfaith Breakfast will continue to serve as a platform for faith leaders, lawmakers, and community members to come together in the spirit of cooperation and advocacy.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors, volunteers, and participants who made this event possible. Your support and commitment are helping to build a stronger, more united Chesapeake region.