Dialogue between Christianity and Islam on spirituality and social care
Publish Date: 06-Jul-2021
Tao Fong Shan Christian Centre held a seminar “Dialogue between Christianity and Islam” on 19 June. The Rt Revd Timothy Kwok, Bishop of HKSKH Eastern Kowloon and Imam Uthman Yang of the Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre shared their personal spirituality and social care experiences at the seminar. The Revd Dr Peter Cheng of All Saints’ Cathedral was a moderator. When sharing his experiences on personal spirituality, Imam Yang pointed out that Muslims believe that humans rule the world on behalf of their creator Allah. He said that humans have spirits and bodies but no original sin. Allah does not prohibit people from enjoyment, but they have to do it within His laws. The practice of Islamic spirituality can help people restrain their desires for personal gains and cleanse their spirit because the purpose of humans is to worship Allah. Bishop Kwok said that Christians believe that God is the creator of the universe and humanity is his creation as well as his steward on earth. Humans have spirits, bodies, as well as original sin and God has prepared a salvation plan for sinners. Jesus Christ is God’s greatest revelation, and the Bible, rationality, traditions, and experiences are the best paths to understanding God. On the topic of social care, Imam Yang said that worshipping Allah and loving people are the quintessential essences of social care, which is also the core of the Islamic faith. Muslims must worship Allah and care for others, including all creation. He continued that all humans are members of a big family descended from Adam and Eve. Furthermore, Muslims must also respect non-Muslims and protect their lives, properties, and reputation. They must also treat non-Muslims with kindness and mercy, and offer assistance to those who are in need. Bishop Kwok said that the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui serves the society with the spirit of the incarnated Christ and walking with the needy. It is holistic care that sees to a person’s physical and mental needs as well as their spiritual needs. The Church also actualizes the belief in the coming of the kingdom in heaven on earth through its evangelization, education and social services ministries.
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