Action & impact: June update
This month we take a look at Mahabba’s key work to equip Christians to reach out to Muslims and discover the opportunities that have actually opened up because of the crisis.
Our newfound abilities with online video calls has brought with it some benefits - we can more easily ‘gather’ to connect across the network, wherever we might be. This brings greater opportunities to learn from one another and connect on a more regular basis.
Mahabba London had a gathering online earlier this month and the positive feedback reflected some of these opportunities going forward.
Mahabba London Online Meet
The group met for an hour, with two short inputs from Steve Bell on ‘Grace & Truth’ and ‘Strategy and Structure’. This was interspersed with time for discussion in breakout groups and an informal time for questions and chat at the end. Whilst online communication is great, it’s very different to in-person gatherings and so it was important that the time was kept short and focused.
The time provided opportunity for those from different areas to learn from one another, share ideas and even have a linked-up approach to their outreach, where they are in closer local proximity.
There was a really positive response to the time together, with feedback that participants would like more input from Mahabba – particularly in the form of these online discussions, perhaps with short teaching videos.
Chas, who ran the event, said this:
“With Mahabba being widely dispersed geographically, the use of digital technology is a must for us going forwards, even without lockdowns. Face to face still gives more in terms of the enjoyment of being together and the time people feel they can give to meetings. A mixture of the two in the future will be a great addition, making equipping available without having to travel, with times for face-to-face to strengthen relationships.”
Participants reflected on ideas for future online meetings, including: bringing people together for online network-wide prayer meetings (quarterly and for special events, like the Night of Power); training in how to engage Churches to reach out to Muslims; ideas for fresh and inspiring ways to pray for Muslim friends; equipping for engaging with mosques and points of connection in Christian-Muslim dialogue; resources and activities for specifically reaching out to women.
As we saw last month, there’s been some new opportunities for connection on social media with Muslims at this time. Whilst we look forward to doing more face-to-face as lockdown eases, it’s wonderful to see the new possibilities that there are through online communication.
PLEASE PRAY
That our newfound ability to connect online would bring greater opportunities for Mahabba to train and equip Christians reaching out to Muslims in many different regions.
That as lockdown restrictions ease, there would be renewed connections and deepened relationships between Christians and Muslim neighbours, colleagues, friends etc.
That those who are still facing many challenges because of the crisis would have their needs met. Particularly that churches, Mosques and city councils would continue to work together to deliver essential services.
P.S. Whilst you’re here …
Could you support the work of Mahabba?
Mahabba does vital work to see all Muslims reached with the love of Jesus. Our work equips and supports Christians to demonstrate this to Muslims in all spheres of society. Why not support this vital work through a regular financial donation:
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