A vital component of the Abraham Path Initiative is the local initiatives that are developing worldwide. There are two kinds of local efforts taking place:

• The formation of Abraham Path Initiative Chapters, and
• Abraham Walks and other events in communities around the world.

1. Formation of Abraham Path Initiative Chapters

Given the intense interest in the Abraham Path around the world a number of people in different countries have expressed an interest in forming local Chapters in their own country. These chapters would engage in various efforts, including:

• Harnessing the spirit of the Abraham Path Initiative in the local Chapter’s own community – i.e. holding Abrahamic events and local walks
• Preparing and sponsoring future travelers and pilgrims to walk the Path
• Supporting projects along the route (i.e. way stations, restoration of sites, etc…) or the development and maintenance of specific segments
• Exhibiting the global nature of the project through activities and publicity
• Creating ‘sister city’ relationships with cities, towns and villages along the Path
• Raising resources and support for the Chapter’s own events and for the related efforts in the Middle East.

There is a fully functioning and thriving chapter in Brazil which has already sent people to the region on trips and has held fundraising events. There are a number of other countries in South America and Europe that are now exploring the possibility of setting up some Chapters.

2. Abraham Walks and other events in communities around the world

Among the efforts being undertaken is the organization of 'Abraham Walks' — walks in communities throughout the world in which local teams comprising people from all backgrounds, cultures and faiths, walk in the spirit of Abraham. Abraham Walks, which have already taken place in a number of cities in the United States, are being assisted by API’s partner organization The Association for Global New Thought.

Moreover, these jointly created events and other activities exemplify the values traditionally associated with Abraham — faith, respect, and hospitality. Many Abraham Walks proceed from churches, mosques and/or synagogues, and feature an educational component. These walks are undertaken in a context of complex religious, political, economic and humanitarian issues that underpin the seemingly intractable strife embedded in the Middle East region itself, as well as in the social tensions shared by 3 billion adherents of Abrahamic faith worldwide.

Click here if you are interested in participating.

AWARENESS CAMPAIGN: THE EDUCATION COMPONENT

• Documentation related to Abraham and his children is provided in the form of essays, articles, courses, websites, and visual aids. Models for fostering conversation are also included.
• These materials are available to help local leaders present the core concepts to motivated individuals and groups. A CD-ROM is available to people in the United States. A link to resources is available to people residing outside the United States.
• Specific instructions and materials for the organization of local Abraham Walks are discussed in local groups in order to determine the specific needs and resources of that community.
• Conference calls and internet forums allow groups to learn, discuss, and collaborate remotely in the process of planning their local Walks.

THE ROLE OF LOCAL TASK FORCES
Identification of local projects and programs

• Organizers of the Omni-local initiative distribute Abraham Path materials to existing task forces and new inquiries.
• The primary role of the local organizing task force is to identify organizations and individuals that are already engaged in work promoting awareness of this issue in their community.
• We suggest that communities of people who have a stake in the Abrahamic traditions be invited to focus their ongoing work around the Abraham Path Initiative.
• These organizations and individuals are asked to select (or organize) and describe a specific project, program, or initiative that promotes awareness and demonstrates nonviolent solutions to the conflicts between the children of Abraham.
• Beginning now, and over time, the local walks are becoming preparatory opportunities for Abraham’s children in our own communities to visit historic sites in the Middle East region, thus expanding and enhancing peace building efforts in their home communities.

LOCAL EVENT PLANNING

In addition to planning local walks, there are many other possibilities for participation in your community. An array of ideas for religious and secular activities, along with organizing guides and educational materials will be provided when you click here to send us your information.

Click here to read about an example of an Abraham Walk that occurred in Cincinnati.