Tearing Down Walls

On a typical Sunday afternoon, our Garage youth building is bustling with activity as middle and high school students gather for fellowship and spiritual formation. The afternoon of January 22 was certainly lively with chatter, laughter, and fun; but typical it was not.

That particular Sunday, our youth were joined by 25 teens from the West End Islamic Center (WEIC). Located only 1 mile apart, our two faith communities are committed to supporting each other as neighbors. So joining together for an afternoon of Challenge Discovery was a perfect way to build our mutual relationships. A program of the University of Richmond, the mission of Challenge Discovery is to engage young people in powerful, fun experience-based learning as a catalyst for building relationships, improving self-esteem and supporting their peers.

“Members from both groups enjoyed icebreakers, challenging tasks, and team-building activities,” said Adam Williams, Minister to Students. “Our hope is that events like this will help create space for tearing down walls that easily divide us so we can learn to respect, trust, and love another.”

Our neighbors will be joining us again on February 12 to pack meals for international relief organization, Stop Hunger Now. The registration for that event filled up in record time due to the overwhelming response from you all and from our WEIC friends.

As yet another act of radical hospitality, the West End Islamic Center will be having an OPEN HOUSE on Saturday, February 11, 2017 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. They have invited us all to come meet them at their place of worship (5000 Shady Grove Road) and learn about Islam and Muslims. The event will also be open to the general public.

Please stay tuned for more information about our budding relationship with WEIC as we live into our faith together.