I think your hopes that this book "...will inspire others to not be afraid but to see potential for growing in faith, building peace, and creating a beautiful community" are absolutely wonderful, and I can't wait to see/hear about, and of course also experience firsthand some of the conversations and potential transformations that come as people read and engage with Pillars. And I think your assessment that much of the fear and suspicion that many North American Evangelical Christians have towards Muslims is based in not having relationships with any is spot-on. Also I absolutely adore the article by Marilyn Gardner that you linked. In response to the great discussion topics you posted, for the first two in my experience helping facilitate connections between people who may not otherwise associate with each other, as well as telling personal stories about my interactions with "the other" can be effective in beginning to open hearts, minds, and spirits; also having some Scriptures verses that help explain and give context to our views can be helpful. In response to the third topic, I have found that - as mentioned by both you and Ms. Gardner - often one of the biggest keys to this is engaging with a friend from another cultural or religious background with a true spirit of openness and curiosity, and without an agenda. Looking forward to hearing others' ideas!
Congratulations on your (almost) book launch!! So exciting ☺️ I'm reading Stronger Than Death right now and can see hints of what you're going to explore in Pillars. It's been so thought-provoking and challenging!
I think your hopes that this book "...will inspire others to not be afraid but to see potential for growing in faith, building peace, and creating a beautiful community" are absolutely wonderful, and I can't wait to see/hear about, and of course also experience firsthand some of the conversations and potential transformations that come as people read and engage with Pillars. And I think your assessment that much of the fear and suspicion that many North American Evangelical Christians have towards Muslims is based in not having relationships with any is spot-on. Also I absolutely adore the article by Marilyn Gardner that you linked. In response to the great discussion topics you posted, for the first two in my experience helping facilitate connections between people who may not otherwise associate with each other, as well as telling personal stories about my interactions with "the other" can be effective in beginning to open hearts, minds, and spirits; also having some Scriptures verses that help explain and give context to our views can be helpful. In response to the third topic, I have found that - as mentioned by both you and Ms. Gardner - often one of the biggest keys to this is engaging with a friend from another cultural or religious background with a true spirit of openness and curiosity, and without an agenda. Looking forward to hearing others' ideas!
Congratulations on your (almost) book launch!! So exciting ☺️ I'm reading Stronger Than Death right now and can see hints of what you're going to explore in Pillars. It's been so thought-provoking and challenging!