Islamic issues will play a more and more prominent role in US politics and the 2008 presidential election, according to experts participating in a Capitol Hill roundtable convened by the World Economic Forum and Georgetown University Thursday.

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When tragedy strikes, many look to religion to help understand what has occurred and why. The religious community offers comfort and support in times of trouble. But religion is not only about consolation.

Religious institutions from time immemorial have engaged communities directly in action. After the 2004 tsunami, the Hurricane Katrina tragedy, and earthquakes in Peru, Pakistan, Iran and Japan, faith-inspired institutions were among the most active in bringing relief. The mobilization of energy and resources that we see through religious organizations of many kinds – large and small, of virtually all denominations, can show humankind at its finest. There are downsides too – especially where pressures to conform or convert are exerted on people who are at their most vulnerable, but they are a relatively small part of the story.

Many faith organizations have roots in emergencies – whether “natural” (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions), man-made (wars, strife), or a combination (famine, epidemic disease). But those who are closest to emergencies face painful questions: Why it is so often the most vulnerable who suffer? Why are dangers not averted? How can the horrible suffering in crises can be prevented? Story upon story tells of institutions, born during crises, with a specific humanitarian mission that broaden their horizons afterwards and work to address the deeper causes of human suffering and injustice.

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Religion is an unending source of curiosity and controversy. Religious pluralism is an increasingly inescapable part of public life – in the U.S. and around the world.

Georgetown/On Faith, a partnership between Georgetown University and Washingtonpost.Newsweek Interactive, is designed to provide knowledge, inform debate, and promote greater dialogue and understanding across religious traditions.

The fit is excellent. On Faith, the leading online conversation about religion, brings together thought leaders and the public for vibrant exchanges. Georgetown, the oldest Catholic and Jesuit University in America, welcomes students of all faith traditions and is a global leader in the interdisciplinary study of religion and its role in world affairs. Georgetown/On Faith will enrich online conversations with university-based knowledge resources and engage Georgetown faculty – and students – in discussions beyond the classroom.

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