interfaith

Reverend Robert Thompson, president of the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions, has been fasting in Ramadan. Again. He started the practice last year, after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

A short reading list on American politics, minorities and Muslim-Jewish relations by Dr. Mumtaz Ahmad.

A number of churches and organizations though, are interested in doing more. They want to know how to reach out to their Muslim neighbors and friends in this difficult time. Below are some suggestions of simple things they can do to express their support for Muslim-Americans.

Now is the time for not just condemnation, but also comfort and reassurance in the face of this tragedy. We must not forget the tremendous support American Christians expressed for Muslims in the wake of September 11 and the subsequent harassment of Muslims. It is now our turn to reach out.

"Allah doth command you to render back your Trusts to those to whom they are due; and when ye judge between man and man, that ye judge with justice: verily how excellent is the teaching which He gives you! For Allah is He Who hears and sees all things." [Quran 4:58]

Why not jump on the bandwagon and start reading more about Islam? Understanding Islam is key to building bridges between people at this critical time when tension and emotion are both still high. 

Understanding, learning and patience are just some of the things that are necessary at this critical time for all of us trying to heal from the wounds of the September 11 tragedy and deal with the war.