Religious intolerance is a perpetual problem that has started wars and cost lives. Now, nonprofit fundraising toward promoting religious tolerance will be complemented by a new project of the Claremont School of Theology in Claremont, California.

The project is made possible in large part because of the promise of $10 million from David and Joan Lincoln. The funds will be used to develop an interreligious program of study by creating a consortium of graduate schools representing different religious traditions.

The new model will invite new religious partners to offer professional education on their faiths while also participating in interreligious curriculum.

Officials at the school appreciate this generous gift - which is believed to be the largest single gift the school has received since its founding. For their part, the Lincolns - both United Methodists - are happy to support this program.

David Lincoln said, "we believe the outcome of this kind of education will be respect among religions and the ability to better address global problems where religious collaboration and cooperation are needed to reach solutions and repair the world."

The noble aspirations of the course of the planned program might inspire faith-based organizations to direct a share of their nonprofit fundraising toward similar education programs in their communities.