In an effort to understand other religions in the context of world events, First Congregational Church has organized a Christian-Muslim dialogue for Sunday night.

Pastor Jim Peck said with the Muslim religion playing such a prominent part in world news right now, it is important for people to understand Islam and learn to accept other religions.

Two presentations are scheduled for the evening, followed by questions and discussion. Karen Jenkins, who has traveled throughout the Middle East and attended the World Council of Churches meeting in Zimbabwe in 1998 will be the first presenter. The second speaker, Owais Bayunus, is the chair of the trustees at the Islamic Center of Minnesota in Fridley.

Peck said there are not many Muslims living in Austin, but that does not mean the issue is not important. He hopes people can learn to see Muslims as neighbors.

"I think a lot of it is we don't know," he said. "We haven't spent a lot of time studying it, so we just don't know."

The dialogue is one of the six adult forums First Congregational Church puts on each year. In the past, issues have included topics like the writings of the apostle Paul and spiritual healing.

The presentations begin at 4:30 p.m. at the church. Peck expects the event to take about two hours, and there is no charge. For more information, call the church office at 433-2301.

Matt Merritt can be reached at 434-2214 or by e-mail at :mailto:matt.merritt@austindailyherald.com