Faith in Global ministries

Report by Nadeem Raza

The only way to promote peace and harmony in societies comprising different faiths, is to win hearts through love and serving to humanity.

First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ of Downers Grove had a meeting of Faith in Global Ministries Panel on Sunday 15th Nov 2015. Jan Remer-Osborn, PhD (Licensed Minister) the organizer from church side served as moderator during this event.

Jan Remer-Osborn introducing the panel and moderating the event.

Imam Shamshad from Glen Ellyn, Illinois accepted the invitation to speak on behalf of Ahmadiyya Muslim community.

Faiths represented were Islam Ahmadiyya, Hindu, Judaic, Humanist, and Christian (protestant).

Glein, a businessman represented humanists, Mark spoke on behalf of Judaic though he was not a rabbi. Devendra, an ex politician and former mayor explained about Hinduism,  Dev. Scott was there to speak for protestants while Matt and Imam Shamshad represented Islam in this panel meeting. It is worth mentioning that Matt is a new convert who got inspired from Islam in a similar interfaith meeting. Matt is working on his Ph. D in religious studies. The program started from introduction of the panel members, then Jan, the organizer of the event asked questions and all members in the panel were supposed to voice their opinion per their respective faiths turn by turn. The audience were also welcomed to ask questions.

The diversity of knowledge could be seen during panel discussions however some of the participants couldn’t limit their answers to the exact scopes. In response to a question about possibility of peace between different faiths, Imam Shamshad explained this is quiet possible. The only thing we need is to promote tolerance and listen to others rather than setting up one sided opinions. He also mentioned about negative role of media leading towards wrong directions of any incident happening in society. If there is bleed, media will lead, said Imam, such a way of working always flames up rather than resolving disputes and promoting peace.

Another question was ” How does your religion address the diversity of other religions here today.” Imam Shamshad explained about Ahmadiyya community’s worldwide motto “Love for All, Hatred for None”. In fact the only way to promote peace and harmony in societies comprising different faiths, is to win hearts thru love and serving to humanity.

A copy of the Holy Qura’an wth English translation presented to pastor Dev. Scott.

Imam Shamshad emphasized on all panel members to bring at least some people with them from their respective faiths to listen such mind opening discussions.

Imam also introduced the book “Pathway to Peace” and presented many copies to the panel members and the audience. This book also proves that Ahmadiyya community acts the same way in whole world under as one worldwide faith members, are centralized on one policy.

Imam also presented the copy of the Holy Quran to the Pastor of the Church.

Jan Remer wished to host more such type of events in future, not in church but some different place. Imam Shamshad offered to welcome future gatherings in Ahmadiyya mosque.

Jan announced the end of meeting after question answer session and thanked the speakers from different faiths for their visit.