Muslim neighbors

Once again, Cape Girardeau's Muslims have welcomed the community to its Islamic Center and community center on West End Boulevard to learn more about their beliefs, holy texts and worship. Visitors at Sunday's open house also were treated to a sampling of Middle Eastern food favorites and conversation. It was another way of helping Muslims and Christians to understand each other.

The Islamic community here has made a special effort over the years to engage the community not only through professional and personal contacts, but also by offering these occasional opportunities for deeper dialogue.

One aim of the open house was to emphasize common bonds rather than focusing on religious and cultural differences. Muslims who provided an interesting and engaging afternoon of conversation and hospitality are to be commended for their efforts. Helping non-Muslims to better understand the tenets of Islam is a good way to build friendship and understanding.