Christian - Muslim Relations
Muslim-Christian National Initiative
The Muslim-Christian National Initiative (MCNI) began meeting in the fall of 2007 with enthusiasm from all sides who represent Muslim and Christian communities in the United States. The MCNI met for the second time at the ELCA Churchwide office, September 15-16 2008. Leaders from these communities discussed how we together address issues in the U.S. context, from interfaith marriage to stigmatization of the 'other,' in ways that reflect the integrity of our respective faiths. The next meeting is scheduled for February 2009 in Los Angeles.
Learn more about the MCNI's launch in North America.
Ecumenical response issued to 'A Common Word'
The NCC Governing Board has approved an ecumenical response to "A Common Word Between Us and You," declaring Christianity and Islam "are compelled to find common ground." The Muslim message is a letter from Muslim scholars worldwide that seeks dialogue with Christians based on love of God and love of neighbor, two commandments central to both Islam and Christianity, as well as to Judaism.
Read more. . .
What is 'Change the Story'?
Huge numbers of Americans profess to having little knowledge of Islam despite the fact that there may be as many as five million Muslims living in the U.S. ChangeTheStory.net offers an interactive experience where users—Muslim and non-Muslim alike—can meet their neighbors, learn about Islam and apply techniques of interfaith dialogue and action to local communities. Our primary audiences are educators, religious leaders and individuals concerned about building bridges of understanding across lines of faith and culture.