Understanding IslamA Christian reflection on the faith of our Muslim neighbors Missio Dei Series, Number 1 |
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"It was predicted that with the demise of communism, Islam would be the next enemy of the West," writes Calvin E. Shenk. "Since Sept. 11, 2001, it appears this prediction is becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy. I recoil as this prospect."
It is with these words that author Shenk sets the tone for this booklet. Shenk's reflections could not be better timed or more needed than they are today. Faced with the horrific spectacle of the World Trade Center calamity, people everywhere - including many Christians - are scrambling to gain a clearer understanding of Islam, today's second-largest religion.
The author is well-placed to respond to some of the questions people are asking. For the past 40 years, he and his wife, Marie, have cultivated relationships with Muslims in Africa and the Middle East: visited mosques, listened to Muslim lectures, received medical treatment by a Muslim doctor, interacted with Muslim employees and, as committed Christians, engaged with Muslims in interfaith conversations.
"There is much that Christians and Muslims can agree on," writes Shenk. "Exploring similarities as well as differences in faith and practice is an essential Christian and Muslim task."
About the Author
Calvin E. Shenk, and his wife, served for many years in Jerusalem with a focus on Jewish-Christian relationships. In addition, Shenk has for many years taught courses as professor of religion at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Va.