Comox Community Baptist Church will be hosting an introductory course looking at the basic beliefs, history and tenets of many of the world religions.

"With so many faiths surrounding us in Canadian culture, a basic understanding of religions can help individuals understand their own faith so they can interact with the world around them," a release from the church says. "Many people view Canada as a multicultural, multi-faith country with tolerance and understanding.   However, for some people, there is a large gap in knowledge about what other faiths truly believe which can lead to prejudice and intolerance."

Run by Pastor Matthew Fox, the discussions will highlight the similarities and differences in these cultures. Fox spent two years volunteering in Israel for Nes Ammim International, a group whose vision is "to bring together people from different faith backgrounds to encourage dialogue and understanding."

Fox has experience researching, studying and interviewing people from different backgrounds, and according to the release from the Comox Community Baptist Church, "he brings an energy and well-versed perspective that will help you understand the founding principles of many world religions and the importance of an open discussion."  

The eight-week course begins on Tuesday, Oct. 15, from 7 until 9 p.m. Registration is not required.