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By Linda Worthington

Bishop James K. Mathews is a leader, pioneer and bridge builder, said Bishop John R. Schol as he introduced the retired bishop at the InterFaith Conference?s Bridge Builders? Awards event June 6.

The IFC chose Bishop Mathews to receive the first IFC Founders? Award because he was instrumental in starting the organization 30 years ago. The bishop, who is now in his 90s, was accompanied by his wife, Eunice, and several family members.

The bishop explained that he had the vision in the early 1970s of many faiths in the Washington area working together on causes of common concern.

Today IFC is composed of 11 faith communities that work together on justice issues.

The event was held in the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center in northeast Washington, D.C.

'In diversity is the unity that will change the world,' said the Rev. Clark Lobenstein, who has directed the organization for its 30 years.

Bishop Mathews led the Washington Episcopal Area from 1972 to 1980.