On Friday, July 16^th, the American Islamic College welcomed a group of church leaders, members, and missionaries from around the world.  They were led by the Lutheran School of Theology’s Dean & Vice President of Academic Affairs and Director of the school’s Center of Christian-Muslim Engagement for Peace and Justice, Rev. Dr. Michael Shelley, and American Islamic College’s Dr. Ghulam-Haider Aasi.  The group comprised of members from the Reformed, Presbyterian, Lutheran, and Episcopal churches.  They came on furlough this summer to visit different religious and cultural centers to gain a deeper understanding of and to learn from “the other.”  As teachers, pastors, administrators, and church workers who promote education, health care, and charitable organizations in their respective areas through their respective churches, these inter-religious and intercultural exchanges provide the means to be sensitive in working within diverse communities abroad.  Our guests hailed from Gambia, South Africa, Japan, Lebanon, and Costa Rica to name a few.  After touring the American Islamic College campus, the group shared an intimate lunch with the faculty, staff, and students of AIC, which was followed by the observance of Muslim Friday Prayer, known as Jummah.  They concluded the afternoon with a thorough and dynamic discussion, giving the group a chance to ask questions, hear from other group members, and reflect. At the end of the visit, participants shared their thoughts on their experience at the American Islamic College. Here is some of their feedback:

“…It was great to get a better understanding of the Muslim religion and to see how our beliefs are not so different.  I wish more Americans could/would come to mosques and see what really goes on and how kind and faithful Muslims are.  I hope someday Christians, Jews, Muslims, etc. can come together with as much hospitality as I received today.  Thank you for an eye-opening experience.”

–Miranda Meyer, Missionary, Lutheran Church

“We very much appreciated you letting us come and observe your prayer service!  Your hospitality is heart warming.  Because of your open minded acceptance of us, many of our group has gained a much deeper understanding of your faith practice.  We can, in truth, take that knowledge out into the world.  Thank you so much!”

–Allyson Bedford, Missionary, Evangelical Lutheran Church of America

“Thank you for your wonderful hospitality, and the opportunity you gave us to learn from you.”

–Michael Shelley, Rev. Dr., Lutheran School of Theology

“This has been a lovely experience of encounter.  We learned a great deal.  The food was delicious!  Thank you for welcoming us with your hospitality.”

–Sarah Henken, Regional Liaison Andean Region, Presbyterian Church