Along with many others in the PCU network, we have invested time and energy over the last decade developing relationships with our Muslim brothers and sisters. Our hope and prayer is that we are creating sacred opportunities for dialogue and solidarity whenever events stimulate a new outburst of misunderstanding, fear, demonization and discrimination against Muslims. We believe that following Jesus' way of compassion and justice requires us to learn from the wisdom found in other traditions!
One such opportunity is the upcoming Christian-Muslim Consultative Group dinner on Sunday, Oct. 25 at First United Methodist Church in Santa Monica. We invite you to join us.
The Christian-Muslim Consultative Group of Southern California (CMCG) was founded in 2006 to bring Christians and Muslims together, break down dehumanizing stereotypes, build loving and compassionate relationships, and engage one another about each other's beliefs and practices. For a number of years PCU has been represented at CMCG, joining members who are official representatives of a range of Christian denominations, as well as mosques and Muslim organizations.
A main project of the CMCG has been the development of a curriculum for Christian-Muslim dialogue called "Standing Together." The notebook and accompanying DVD provide a framework for a 7-week discussion series in which Muslims and Christians talk with each other about their beliefs, religious traditions, significant religious events and holidays, sacred pilgrimages, and get to know each other in a very personal way. People who have participated in these groups have called them life-changing, and a number of groups continue to meet socially. Several new "pairings" of congregations and mosques are currently being planned.
Consider these results of a Huffington Post/YouGov poll conducted in March 2015: 55% of those polled had either a somewhat or very unfavorable view of Islam, even though just 14% said that they understood Islam extremely well or very well. Just 7% had a very favorable view of Islam. Providing opportunities for mutual understanding and community building are more urgent than ever. Moreover, practicing these qualities is a crucial way we express the best of the Christian tradition.
At the Oct. 25 dinner, a delicious halal meal will be served. Christians are welcome to observe or participate in the evening Maghrib prayer. (Women who want to participate should bring a scarf or other head covering.) Come and hear from people who have participated in the dialogue groups, and learn how you can bring this resource to your own faith community.
Detailed information, including parking, and how to purchase tickets, is available here.
Salaam,
Paige Eaves and Virginia Classick
PCU Board President and Former Board Member