Bridging the Divide

In the 2025-2026 school year, Xaverian’s campus ministry department piloted a new initiative called the Bridges Program. Inspired by the work of alumnus Matt Anderson ’04, founder and executive director of Mosaic Interfaith Youth Action, the club connects high school students of Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim faiths through partnerships with Gann Academy and the Al-Huda Society. Fifteen students are taking part for this inaugural year, with five from each faith group.

Meetings for this program rotate between the three sites.They take place once a month and are facilitated by Matt Anderson and Kimberly Mack from Mosaic Interfaith Youth Action. Gatherings usually include activities like examining sacred texts from each tradition, sharing personal reflections, group dialogue on themed topics (such as justice), and spending time in

informal conversation.

The philosophy and purpose of the Bridges Program is to encourage authentic and meaningful dialogue between students of different faiths to foster connection during a time of widespread division.The program ultimately helps students step out of their comfort zone and engage more deeply in Boston’s diverse religious landscape.

“I decided to join the Interfaith Bridges Program because it was an opportunity to learn about the lives of other people that are completely different in terms of the roots of our beliefs,” says Xaverian senior Anoop Rampure. “Everyone has been very kind. We’ve had opportunities to grow, expressing opposing ideas but coming together through common ground and shared understanding.”

Though only in its first year, the Bridges Program is already cultivating an environment where students can explore differences with honesty and respect. Participants leave each session with a deeper understanding not only of other faiths, but also of their own. As the program grows, it promises to remain an important space for connection, learning, and meaningful interfaith engagement.