Realizing my misconceptions and generalizations was the first step. Mr. Reed and about 20 other students at the seminary are part of a summer institute designed to educate students and others about Islamic history and how Christians can better relate to Muslim neighbors. Our students and all Christians encounter Muslims every day. If we encounter them with ignorance or preconceived ideas, it's stressful for everyone. We shouldn't shy away from talking about our differences.
Respect comes from knowledge.
Part of the impetus behind such programs is curiosity about the growing number of Muslims in the United States and worldwide. Another part is the impulse to evangelize. Such programs help Christians learn the beliefs of people they'd like to see converted. Ibrahim Hooper, communications director for the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Washington, D.C., said that while he welcomes increased relations with Christians, he views educational efforts with a discerning eye. We're all for teaching about the Muslim faith, but we need to make sure that Christians teaching us about their faith keep in mind that we don't want to be converted.