As-salamu ‘alaykum, Esteemed Supporter,
If we want our future generations in the US to identify with and love Islam, we need to make Islam relevant to our local context and culture without compromising our beliefs and values. The challenges are many—intellectual, moral, political, and others—but we must rise to meet these, with a view to continuing the Prophet Muḥammad’s ﷺ mission to be a mercy to creation.
Over the last couple of decades, several Muslim seminaries have emerged to train scholars and/or leaders, and this is a healthy development so we do not have to rely as much on foreign-trained imams and leaders who may have mastered traditional Islamic knowledge but lack the background and experience to apply it to the US environment.
I have been involved in Boston Islamic Seminary for over seven years, but made the decision to join in a full-time capacity, as Lead Faculty and Assistant Professor, almost two years ago. I see BIS as a channel for contributing to the future of Islam in the West. We train Muslim leaders grounded in the classical, moderate tradition of Islamic scholarship, informed about American culture and social and interfaith dynamics, and equipped with counseling abilities and other critical skills needed in our communities.
BIS is contributing to the future of Islam in America. We are proud to shoulder this responsibility alongside other esteemed institutions across the Islamic and higher education spaces, many of which we are in open conversation and/or collaboration with. BIS also offers Islamic courses, webinars, and lectures for the general Muslim public, as well as professional development workshops for Muslim teachers, chaplains, and community workers. For example, we have a workshop coming up in January, titled “Mastering Public Speaking,” and five community courses lined up for the spring semester, for which registration will soon be opened.
At BIS, we strive to be relevant while remaining authentic to our Islamic values and beliefs. But we cannot do it alone. Planning for the future of Islam is a community effort and collective responsibility. I invite you to support the mission of BIS, by contributing financially, as well as by participating in our programs.
May Allah bless and reward you, and keep us all firm on the Straight Path.
Was-salam,
