On Sunday, Jan. 12, the Protestant Community Church in Medford Lakes, also known as Cathedral of the Woods, will sponsor a forum concerning the Islamic religion and its relationship to Christianity. The guest speaker will be Rutgers Professor M.A.R. Habib, a scholar in the areas of literary criticism, theory and philosophy whose interests extend to Islamic philosophy and literature.
Habib maintains that it is a matter of critical importance to foster improved mutual understanding between the Islamic world and Western cultures and he has given numerous talks on various aspects of Islam. He also believes that in developing mutual understanding it is important to promote and disseminate the skills of critical reading and writing to develop informed and responsible participation.
Habib is currently working with colleagues at Rutgers University to develop a cultural diversity of courses, including Islamic literature in English translation. This program has been organized as part of an effort by the Protestant Community Church to promote peace and non-violence in the aftermath of the tragic massacre of schoolchildren and teachers at Newtown, Conn., one year ago. Other undertakings include a peace pole, which has been displayed at the church and other churches in the community during the past year.
Habib will speak in the church sanctuary, located at 100 Stokes Road, Medford Lakes, at 11 a.m., following the service of worship. It is not a worship service and is open to anyone who has an interest in promoting mutual understanding among people of different faiths and beliefs.
The program, which will include time for questions and answers, is to be followed by a luncheon at the Todd Building of the church, which is located directly behind the sanctuary. Since the program will include a luncheon the church would like to know how many people to anticipate and it is requested that you phone the church office at (609) 654–4220 if you plan to attend.
