Together in Faith, United for Social Justice
Our Mission
The mission of the Santa Monica Area Interfaith Council is to create a collaborative environment among peoples of all faiths in this region, through education, community activities, and interfaith dialogue, that will foster peace and justice for everyone regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, religious affiliation or belief, or other communities, and result in a better and safer life for all.
Our Team
We are a diverse group of leaders, advocates, and volunteers united by a shared commitment to fostering understanding, respect, and collaboration among faith communities in the Santa Monica area. Our team reflects the rich diversity of traditions and beliefs that make our community vibrant and inclusive.
Kathleen Benjamin
President
Kathleen Benjamin is a dynamic spiritual leader and community advocate from Santa Monica, California, whose 40-year journey spans faith traditions and interfaith collaboration. Inspired by Paramahansa Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi and deeply rooted in the teachings of Ernest Holmes, Kathleen has spent decades fostering spiritual growth and community building. A Licensed Spiritual Practitioner, she has led initiatives like the Love and Unity Festival, uniting diverse communities in celebration. Kathleen’s work in grief management and interfaith dialogue, combined with her leadership as president of the Santa Monica Interfaith Council, has earned her widespread recognition. Dedicated to justice, peace, and inclusivity, Kathleen continues to inspire others to embrace diversity and build a compassionate world.
Rabbi Shira Freidlin
Vice President
Rabbi Shira Freidlin has taught students of all ages in Jewish camps, Jewish recovery programs, and religious schools. Since July, 1st 2022 she has been the spiritual leader of The Santa Monica Synagogue. She has served in various roles at IKAR, Temple Beth Am and Beit T’Shuvah in Los Angeles since she moved out here in 2007. She holds a BFA in Film & TV from NYU, an MA in Jewish Education from the Jewish Theological Seminary, and an MA and Ordination from the Academy of Jewish Religion California. She currently sits on the Sandra Caplan Community Beit Din and serves as VP to the Santa Monica Area Interfaith Council.
Rev. Jeremiah Lal Shahbaz Kalendae
Vice President
Unitarian Universalist Minister, congregational pastor, community leader, teacher, ritual artist, and intersectional activist. A Sufi dervish in the Chishtī lineage of Islam, they have received diksha in Hindu Shaktism and hold Masters degrees in Divinity (M.Div) from Starr King School for the Ministry, and in Social Work (M.S.S.A.) from Case Western Reserve University. In their free time, they enjoy spending time with family and friends, power yoga and spin class, swimming and meditation, learning to snowboard, traveling, and eco-halal vegan and vegetarian cooking.
Jen Philbin
Vice President
Jen Philbin was born and raised in the South Bay and served at the Presbyterian church they grew up in for over 10 years. Now the Director of Children’s, Youth, and Family Ministries at First Presbyterian Church of Santa Monica, Jen brings energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to everything in they do. They are honored to be part of the leadership team of the Santa Monica Area Interfaith Council.
“Being in community with people of different religions broadens our understanding of The Source; it’s like a beautiful mosaic that only makes sense when you have all the pieces.”
Contact Us
We would love to hear from you! Whether you’re looking to learn more about our events, and programs, join our community, or collaborate with us, feel free to reach out.
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