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On Saturday, April 5, 2003 Belmont Abbey College hosted a conference titled, "Islamic/Western Encounters: The Past, The Present, The Future". The album includes an introduction by college president Dr. Robert Preston (0:00), opening prayer from Father Arthur (0:24), welcome (Preston, 1:00; Dean de la Motte, 2:25), and John Alden Williams's lecture (16:30-end of tape). The remaining audio of Dr. Alden Williams and the conference is either missing or distorted.
Dr. Robert Jones, professor of Political Science, and Dr. David Williams, assistant professor of Theology, designed and hosted a one-day conference titled "Islamic/Western Encounters: The Past, The Present, The Future" on April 5. The conference was attended by nearly 200 participants from the campus and greater community. Dr. John Alden Williams, author of Roman Catholics and Shi'l Muslims: Prayer, Passion and Politics (UNC Press, 2002), was conference keynote speaker. Dr. Williams noted the many areas of shared historical and cultural experience. Dr. Jones presented a talk on the present shape of the Middle East, providing insight into the origin of tensions resulting from post-World War I diplomacy. Dr. Williams presented a paper on the reasons for the Crusades, noting significant historic instances of Muslim-Jewish-Christian harmony. Dennis Teall-Fleming presented a model for community discussion groups with membership from Christian, Jewish and Muslim sectors. A panel of speakers and members of the Muslim community addressed ways to build understanding while strengthening the community as a whole. The event was sponsored by Jerry Schmitt, chair of the BAC Board of Trustees, and the Charlotte Area Educational Consortium. - From Crossroads, Summer 2003
Select material from other conference speakers is included under "Related Material".
Related Material
Browse Dr. Robert Preston in our library catalog.
Browse Dr. John Alden Williams in our library catalog.
Browse Dr. David Williams in our library catalog.