In this ever shrinking world, the effects of globalization not only affect nations and organizations, but each and every individual. War, famine, disease, financial crisis amongst numerous other difficulties have taken their toll on all levels of society throughout the globe. One institution as a result of the recent global challenges has been undermined and shaken – that institution is the family.

Importance of the role of the family in a pluralist society, the contributions of the family concept to peace, society and overcoming social problems, post modern understanding of the family and an uncertain future for many, and importance of the family in world’s religions are some of the concepts were addressed by the presenters. The panel provided a platform for discussion of some of the numerous issues and problems facing families.  We hope that the panel will be a means for overcoming common difficulties within the dynamic status and definition of what a family actually stands for in the 21st century.

Our distinguished presenters at the panel are:

Dr. Darrol Bryant, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, Religious Studies

Dr. Tom O’Connor, Professor, Delton J. Glebe Chair in Pastoral Counseling at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary

Dr. Nathan Funk, Assistant Professor in Peace and Conflict Studies, Conrad Grebel University College

The Reverend Dr. Brice Balmer, Exec Director, Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition

Dr. Mustafa Yavuz, Professor and Director of Nano and Micro-Systems Lab, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN)