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New Relationships

Dear Salem Family,

This past week, I had the pleasure of working with some friends that are a part of the Islamic community of Johnson County. We had 4 friends visit Salem last Sunday and they talked with us about the similarities between Christianity and Islam. 24 members of Salem joined together in conversation with the Islamic community. We listened to our friends talk about the life of Muhammed and also how they see Jesus and Mary. We discussed the 5 pillars of Islam and many of us were surprised to see the similarities of how we practice our faith and worship.

We also listened to one of the gentleman chant their call to prayer, while another translated the prayer in English. In a world where we fear the unknown, or people use fear to instigate hate, it was so amazing to come together with another community and engage in dialogue about our differences. When we let the unknown get in the way of relationship and community we miss out on opportunities to learn, to serve and to engage in community with those that might be different than us.

I am reminded as we approach Easter about this notion of new life. As we get older, it’s been my experience, that I’m not learning or experiencing new things on a regular basis. There isn’t always the excitement that you got as children when you’re eyes are opened to this whole new way of doing things on a daily basis. I felt that as we had these conversations with the Islamic community. My eyes were opened to a way of life I was unfamiliar with, and it was amazing to see the similarities and how we could work together to accomplish some of the things we seek as a community; love, peace, relationship and helping the other.

We hope to continue these conversations with the Islamic community through the summer. I encourage you to keep your eyes opened for the dates for this continued conversation, or if you have questions, feel free to connect with me.

Meghan Harmison
Director of Adult Ministries and Outreach

Tags: Weekly Word