Promoting Understanding Through Faith and Unity

1980

• Dr. Gary Cook invited the community to discuss forming a Waco chapter of The Conference of Christians and Jews (Waco CCJ), which originated in Arkansas. 
• The Waco chapter of The Conference of Christians and Jews met for the first time on March 6, 1980. 
• In September, Baylor University hosted the first event: Holocaust Remembrance. 

1981

• Judge Abner McCall chaired the first annual dinner.   

1982

• Dr. James Wood spoke at a Waco CCJ event about the dangers of the Ku Klux Klan. 
• Waco CCJ held its second annual dinner, hosted by Bernard Rappaport. Senator Frank Church was the guest speaker.

1983

• Waco CCJ established the “Tour of Understanding.” Rodef Shalom, a local Jewish synagogue, hosted the first “Tour of Understanding,” which was open to the public. 
• Monsignor Mark Deering chaired the third annual dinner. 
• The Humanitarian of the Year award went to Bernard Rappaport. 
• Dr. Gary Cook initiated Rabbi Podet as the second president.

1984

• The “Tour of Understanding” took members to St. Francis on the Brazos Catholic Church. 
• Mr. Jarrell McCraken hosted the fourth annual dinner in October with Mrs. Evelyn Hoffman honored as Humanitarian of the Year. The attendees enjoyed a theatre production of “Masada” with actress Jeannette Clift George. 
• Waco CCJ inducted Monsignor Mark Deering as the third president.

2022

• In September, the Conference of Christians and Jews officially became known as the Greater Waco Interfaith Conference (GWIC). 
• At this time, members representing Islam, Hinduism, and the Baha’i Faith joined Greater Waco Interfaith Conference. 

Jane Sachs Bounds

Long-standing Greater Waco Interfaith Conference board member Jane Bounds passed away on October 18, 2025. Jane was a cherished member of the interfaith community in Waco and a person whose presence enriched every organization she served. Through her thoughtful contributions, wise counsel, and warm spirit, she helped strengthen relationships among people of many faith traditions.

As a board member of the Greater Waco Interfaith Conference, Jane consistently shared her sharp mind, generous heart, and steadfast belief that one person can make a difference. She brought insight, kindness, and a deep commitment to cooperation and understanding, always encouraging others to work together for the good of the wider community.

Jane was also an active and devoted member of Temple Rodef Sholom, where she served in many capacities, including as past president. In that role and many others, she helped sustain and strengthen both the congregation and the broader Jewish community in Waco.

A lifelong advocate for education and the well-being of children, Jane co-founded McLennan County Pack of Hope, an initiative that provides food on weekends to local students in need. This work reflected her deep compassion and her belief that every child deserves care, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive.

Jane’s leadership, dedication, and generous spirit touched many lives. She will be deeply missed by her colleagues, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her. Her legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire the community she loved so dearly.