Two Protestant churches have come under fire for permitting the use of their buildings for Muslim worship services. According to FOX News, Heartsong Church in Cordova, Tenn. and Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Alexandria, Va. both allowed Muslim groups to temporarily hold worship services in their buildings during construction. Representatives from both churches see it as extending the hand of fellowship to their neighbors and developing relationships with those who are not like themselves. But Alex McFarland, a Christian apologist and talk-show host, said these churches “have crossed the line from respect and tolerance to … affirmation and endorsement.” McFarland said the activities of Jesus Christ and the activities of a mosque are incompatible. And Dr. Jason Hood, an evangelical theologian, says Christians can do other things to create relationships and bridge gaps without overdoing it, such as caring for Muslim refugees. Even so, the director of the Islamic Society of North America, Mohamed Elsanousi, heartily endorses the actions of the two churches, saying it’s good for the country to know churches will extend hospitality to Muslims.
What do you think? Would your church consider allowing Muslim worship services in your buildings? What could be the ramifications of such interaction?
