Special Topics in Islam

Monday evenings October 5, 12, 19, 26 and Nov 2, 2015, 7-9 PM
Repeated Wednesday Mornings Oct 7, 14, 21, 28, and Nov 4, 2015, 10 AM-Noon

What is the significance of veiling for Muslim Women?
What are the characteristics of various Muslim Denominations?
How is family life understood in Muslim belief and practice?

To arrive at mutual understanding and respect with others who think, act and believe differently than we do demands dialogue and openness . To begin to understand the worldview and mindset that the other inhabits necessitates our encounter with and exploration of what motivates and energizes the other in their belief and lifestyle. For most of us, Islam and Muslims are still the “other.” These five two-hour sessions will explore special topics in Islam that activate and direct Muslim belief and practice.

Special topics to be addressed include Women in Islam, Veiling, Harem, Prophets in Islam, Jesus,

Mary, Jihad, Qur’an, Hadith, Shariah, Marriage/Family/Divorce, Muslim Calendar, Holy Days and

Rituals, Hajj/Ramadan, Sufis, Islamic Denominations, Sunni/Shite, Muhammad/Rightly Guided Successors. Explorations of these special topics will help us become more aware of our Muslim neighbors and how to interact with them in a way that is both knowledgeable and respectful of their beliefs and practices. They will also help us understand many of the current issues concerning Islam and its encounter with the West.

Come to learn, to be informed and to be challenged. All faith traditions and denominations are most welcome.

Sessions will be facilitated by Biagio Mazza. To register, call either Biagio or Kris.