• Leading Christian and Islamic scholars to discuss mercy and compassion
• Understanding the meaning of these concepts is important to dialogue between Christians and Muslims
• Community members encouraged to attend this free event

Port Macquarie community members are invited to participate in an evening workshop at Charles Sturt University (Charles Sturt) on Monday 19 August to explore understandings of mercy and compassion within Christianity and Islam.

Director of Community Engagement at Charles Sturt in Port Macquarie Ms Kate Wood-Foye said, “Mercy and compassion are common central values in both Islam and Christianity.

“These values underpin how each tradition thinks about God and humanity.

“Understanding the meaning of these core concepts of Christianity and Islam is the key to unlocking open discussion, tolerance and friendship.

“I really encourage the community to come together to contribute to this free event.”

Ms Wood-Foye said the evening will include presentations from Christian and Muslim scholars: Associate Professor Peter Walker at the Charles Sturt School of Theology (and Principal, United Theological College); and Head of the Charles Sturt Centre for Islamic Studies and CivilisationAssociate Professor Mehmet Ozalp.

After the presentations, attendees have an opportunity to discuss understandings of mercy and compassion with each other over a free light dinner.

The evening will conclude with a plenary discussion, and responses to the presentations and table discussions.

The ‘Mercy and Compassion Workshop’ is from 6pm to 9pm on Monday 19 August at Charles Sturt, Major Innes Road, Port Macquarie.

For catering purposes, please RSVP to office@portmacquarie.unitingchurch.org.au if you will be attending, and please advise of any special dietary requirements.