Catholic, Muslim women find mutual understanding, friendship

Published: 2006-03-15

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (CNS) -- They have learned that while there are differences between them, there are many common bonds, no matter if they are Muslim or Christian. "We share a lot of values. Let's get together and find out how one another thinks, rather than let the media and current events ... define us," said Pat AbuGharbieh, 52, of the Masjud al-Noor mosque. She belongs to the Muslim-Christian Dialogue Group founded in April 2004 at the urging of Regina Weissert, a member of Little Flower Parish in South Bend. "Unless people talk, you never really know how to live well together," said Weissert. "I am firmly convinced that it is only through dialogue with other cultures and religions that we can develop understanding and knowledge. You can read all about other people, but until you get to know them and talk to them, there is only a superficial understanding of their lives."

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