On Jan. 18, the Center for Multicultural Initiatives gave the Oakland University community an opportunity to listen to three panellists discus the link between Christianity and Islam.

“Christianity and Islam: The Link” was part of African-American Celebration Month, which runs Jan. 16 to Feb. 16.

“This event perfectly embodies the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr.,” Charles Mabee, panel member and professor of Christianity studies, said.

The panel’s discussion centered on what the Islamic and Christian faiths had in common in their ideals.

“All of the Ten Commandments from the Christian faith can be found in the Quran,” Malike Balla, professor of Islamic studies and member of the panel, said.

The discussion quickly shifted to what the differences are and how we as people should try to bridge those differences.

“We both believe in one God and we must manifest that through how we treat other people,” Dawud Walid, US Navy veteran and  Assistant Imam of Masjid Wali Muhammad in Detroit, said. “Within the similarities between Islam and Christians there are interwoven differences.”

According to Mabee, a source of compromise, in which to carry us to the promise land of religion, must be found.

“Both Islam and Christianity need to figure out how do we come together and help the plight of the family of man,” Walid said. “It is more fruitful to stop talking and to do something.”

During the final 15 minutes, the audience had an opportunity to ask the panel members questions.

In conclusion of the event, Mabee gave his thoughts about what we should do to better understand and help grow the relationship between Islam and Christianity.

“We should have an international conference, maybe here at (OU), to take on issues that are often swept under the carpet,” he said.

For more information on the events coming up during African American Celebration Month go to www.oakland.edu/aacm

Contact staff reporter Christopher Lauritsen via e-mail at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @ChrisLaurtsen