Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The 2024 Festival of Faiths commenced on November 13 with an evening filled with music and reflections centered around the theme "Sacred Imagining." The event took place at the Cathedral of the Assumption, marking its inception in 1996. Father Frederick Klotter, rector of the Cathedral, welcomed attendees and shared a brief reflection on the festival's theme to open the gathering, concluding it with a Benediction.

Among the speakers were Rachel Greenberg, wife of Louisville Metro Mayor Craig Greenberg; Sara Riggs Reed, executive director of the Center for Interfaith Relations, which organizes the festival; and co-chairs Adria Johnson and Owsley Brown III. Young representatives from Jewish and Bahai faiths also contributed their reflections on the theme.

The musical performances covered various traditions. Wu Fei played traditional Chinese music on the zither, while other performances included popular, classical, and gospel music. The closing music was led by Louisville musician Will Oldham who sang and played guitar. He encouraged audience participation by providing small bells for them to ring.

The Festival of Faiths will continue until November 16 with numerous workshops and community events scheduled. More information can be found at festivaloffaiths.org.