interfaith

Islamophobia, or the fear and hatred of all things relating to Islam and Muslims, is becoming mainstream and deadly. Whether it's radio talk show hosts,  columnists or extremists who promise to kill Muslim women, there is a great danger to Muslims.

With wars around the world, occupations, genocides and refugees, the state of peace in the world looks very bleak. Here are some practical things Muslim communities, particularly Masjids can do, to promote peace and security in the coming days.

Pope John Paul II never seemed to feel threatened by Islam. Indeed the Pope's frequent references to metaphysical parallels between the two faiths, were backed by a confidence in the ethical values Catholics and Muslims share. 

Muslims have expressed their heartfelt condolences for the Pope’s death on April 2, 2005. Here are what a few Muslim organizations had to say about him.

Faith, sacrifice, commitment and patience. These are just some of the qualities that characterize Prophet Ibrahim or Abraham as he is called in English (peace be upon him). So it should come as no surprise that he is revered not just in Islam, but in Christianity and Judaism as well. 

The forced expulsion of Palestinians, their oppression and the attacks on Masjid al-Aqsa: these are things Muslims cannot bear to see or tolerate. In their anger and disgust, some Muslims mention individual Jews, people as a whole or their faith in a way that is not in line with Islamic teachings.

Students are routinely exposed in their classroom to new information and opinions, hence they tend to be more receptive to other beliefs and ideas. Bridges of understanding built and the friendships formed during the school years can go long way in achieving respect for all faith and cultures.