The Islamic Society of North America is an association of and for Muslims in North America. The group draws something like 30,000 Muslims together every year at its annual convention.

This past weekend at the annual event, Evangelical Christian Pastor Rick Warren spoke, along with Conservative and Reform Judaism representatives who have recently formed partnerships with the society.

This marks a turning point for the organization. According to USA Today, Christian and Jewish groups have stayed away from the convention in the past, speaking out against hostility and violence committed by Muslims against their followers.

But the group has denounced terrorism and seeks two states for Israel – one for Jews, one for Muslims. The Islamic Society saw their convention as a chance to reach out and make peace.

Still, Warren’s appearance at the event may seem controversial to some…though it wouldn’t be the first controversial thing he’s ever done.

The Associated Press reports that Warren addressed the controversy in his speech:

“It’s easier to be an extremist of any kind because then you only have one group of people mad at you,” he said. “But if you actually try to build relationships — like invite an evangelical pastor to your gathering – you’ll get criticized for it. So will I.”

Warren urged Muslims and Christians to work together to tackle major world problems and to speak out against stereotyping of religious groups.

In other news…

Muslim and Christian relations haven’t been all sunny this week. In Pakistan, Muslims reportedly attacked 110 Christian homes.

Are you hopeful about the future of Muslim-Christian relations?

Content created by ReligionTranscends.com

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