How long have you called Austin (or Central Texas) home, and what’s kept you here?
We have called Austin home for 54 years. We were met by a community of faith expressing love and welcome to our family. The birth of children, their education in AISD, and the community spirit of Austin has enriched our lives.
What inspired your connection with iACT?
Being a part of a historic faith community, Gethsemane Lutheran, encouraged participation in the Austin Area Conference of Churches, leading Karl to serve as president of AACC for two terms. The growth of the Austin community and the presence of varied faith expressions in Austin called forth a new and inclusive faith voice, eventually becoming iACT.
What is it about iACT’s mission of bringing people of different faiths together that resonates with you personally?
Sharon & Karl were raised in an environment grateful for our Swedish heritage and Lutheran faith tradition. We were encouraged to have a world view in a local setting, affirming the faith journey of all people.
Is there a program, story, or moment from iACT that has stayed with you?
There are many memories: the gathering of the faith community at the Capitol following the tragic events of September 11, 2001; the annual HOPE Awards; the Hands on Housing ministry with fellow congregants; hosting the Passport Program at our church; and the Community Thanksgiving Service. (Karl was privileged to help lead the first Thanksgiving service with the late Dr. Browning Ware, First Baptist pastor.)
What do you most enjoy about being part of this community?
Seeing the faithful leadership of iACT and participation in the iACT vision shared by a cross section of Austinites.
Can you describe a moment when you really felt the impact of the work iACT does?
Not one moment but numerous moments at various iACT events. Having been there at the birth, we feel deep gratitude for the growth and commitment to all people by iACT: “Cultivating peace and respect through interfaith dialogue, service and celebration.”
What does “interfaith action” mean to you in your own life or faith tradition?
Learning, appreciating, and affirming the belief system, heritage, and culture of our brothers and sisters in their faith journey/tradition.
If a neighbor or friend asked you why iACT matters, what would you tell them?
We have in the past and will continue to invite friends and neighbors to know the blessings iACT is to the Austin community; we are always grateful to belong to this amazing community of faithful people living their faith.
What do you hope for Central Texas, and how do you see iACT being part of getting there?
We have seen growth and change in our city and Central Texas. Our hope is for iACT to continue having a voice, inviting people to celebrate unity through conversation for the “greater good.”
What would you say to someone who’s curious about getting more involved with iACT?
Come and see! Come and learn the vision of iACT! Come and celebrate with your neighbors the reality of community!