He said many of the things he heard from Hirschfield were new to him.

"In hindsight, I now agree with everything he said that I can remember," Stephenson said.

The lecture probably will address some of the same topics, he said. So he said he'd encourage anyone to attend.

"He's obviously a very engaging speaker, someone who really challenges us to analyze our preconceived notions," Stephenson said.

Hirschfield helped Stephenson realize that he doesn't have to condemn others' beliefs to hold his own strong opinions.

"Truth is bigger than the perspective that I have," Stephenson said.

And this message of tolerance and understanding couldn't be more applicable right now, Hirschfield said. More people are killing each other in the name of religion now than any time since the crusades, he said.

"The current events have basically stoked the need for dialogue," Stephenson said. "It's also reminded us that these (religious) problems haven't gone away."

Julianna Parker 366-3541 jparker@normantranscript.com