Redmond Mosque to Host Discussion on Prophet Muhammad

The Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS) invites the community to gather at its Redmond mosque on Thursday, Oct. 11, for a documentary film screening and discussion about the Prophet Muhammad.

The event marks the beginning of the second series of "Many Cultures, One Community," a monthly educational program MAPS began last spring to reach out to neighbors from other faiths and backgrounds.

Next week's presentation will include a screening of the PBS documentary Muhammad: Legacy of a Prophet. A casual discussion will follow the film, and dinner will be available for a $5 donation.

Rania Hussein, a MAPS member who is organizing the Many Cultures, One Community series, said the decision to focus on Muhammad's legacy was made in an effort to clear up misconceptions from an American-made video that mocked the prophet and led to protests around the world, some of them violent.

“Based on the recent events, it became really obvious we needed to clear up the prophet’s image and bring the community together,” she said, adding that the teachings of Islam are "built on peace and justice" and condemn acts of violence.

Hussein said the spring series was a success and drew people from many different faiths who were interested in learning about other cultures.

“People of different faiths realized they have a lot in common,” she said. "We are looking forward to building on that.”

The Many Cultures, One Community events are free, but advanced registration is required. Click here to sign up, or email maps.mcoc@gmail.com to get more information.