When war broke out in the Middle East more than a year ago, it quickly became apparent that the members of our parish had a diversity of opinions about the conflict. It also became clear that we, as a small Midwestern church, were limited in any response that we might make to the crisis. In the past year, many of our members have acted out their Christian faith by giving to aid groups and participating in political actions. But as a community we have done very little. The one thing that we can do is to stay in relationship with a variety of people who represent a variety of faiths, traditions, and beliefs. We can try to bridge the world’s differences in a small way. 

During November we will be doing exactly that. This Sunday we are joined by Imran Malik, a founding member of Safe Alliance of Interfaith Leaders (SAIL) and a devout Muslim, who will preach and will offer a forum after the service. On November 17 we will be joined by Rabbi Aaron Portman of OSU Hillel, who will also preach and offer a forum. Our goal is to simply build understanding, without becoming entangled in the divisive politics of the moment. Please help us welcome Imran and Aaron.