This is a note from our colleagues and friends at the Russell Berrie Foundation. We think it is a wonderful fellowship program and opportunity. Please share it widely among your contacts.

We are pleased to announce the call for applications for the Russell Berrie Fellowship in Interreligious Studies for the academic year 2013-14. The initiative, funded by the Russell Berrie Foundation and administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE), is organized at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome for the sixth consecutive year.

The goal of the Fellowship Program is to build bridges between Christian, Jewish, and other religious traditions by providing the next generation of religious leaders with a comprehensive understanding of and dedication to interfaith issues. Russell Berrie Fellows are expected to complete the program and return home to their parishes and communities to lead others in efforts to promote interfaith understanding.

The Fellowship offers clergy, lay and communal leaders an opportunity to study at the Angelicum to obtain a Certificate in Interreligious Studies. The award provides one year of financial support for new Russell Berrie Fellows. It is intended to cover tuition, a modest living stipend and book allowance, examination fees, and travel to and from the recipient’s home country.

Applicants of all faiths and backgrounds from around the world — including students currently enrolled at the Angelicum — who have a demonstrated interest in Interreligious Studies are encouraged to apply.

The application deadline is March 22, 2013.

Please find attached a poster with the most important information about the fellowship. More detailed program information and application materials can be found here. Information on previous year fellowship recipients can be found here.

If you have any questions or would like to have more information, please do not hesitate to contact IIE, the program administrator, at berrie@iie.eu.