In 1965 Catholic Church allowed its adherents to engage in dialogue with people of other religions. Since then Muslims and Catholics are meeting regularly in different part of the world. In the United States, the Muslim-Catholic dialogue formally began in 1985. National and regional meetings have been co-sponsored by U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Islamic Society of North America and several other Muslim organizations. I have been more directly and regularly involved in the West Coast dialogue of which I have served as a co-chairman with our esteemed Catholic Bishops and leaders.

In December 2003, we concluded a joint statement: “Friends and Not Adversaries: A Catholic-Muslim Spiritual Journey.” Our joint statement emphasized.  Read More

The Fiqh Council is encouraging all Muslims throughout North America to consider using the new methodology for the sake of unity and to avoid the confusion and disputes that have occurred in the past.   However, the Fiqh Council does not intend to force its decision on anyone or any Muslim community.

You should follow the decision of your Imam and your Masjid.  Moreover, you should do so with great respect and avoiding unnecessary disputes and discussion.  It is not expected that everyone will embrace this decision immediately.  As with all changes, it will take time for people to understand the new method.   But, Insha’Allah, once people see the new methodology as a more objective and accurate standard, it will serve to unite us in the near future.