Muslim Children’s Day

13 October 2007; 9:00am – 2:00pm

With the changes—whether technological, economic or cultural—occurring in our society today, raising physically and psychologically healthy children who uphold Islamic values and follow an Islamic way of life has indeed become a more challenging task for Muslim families. 

We live in a society where children would rather play computer games than learn and memorize Qur’anic verses; where people have come to believe that a progressive and secure future lies in the acquisition of material wealth and not in the holistic development of our children.    Making matters even worse is the fact that, because of economic constraints, some are seemingly robbed of their childhood with the adult responsibilities and roles they assume at an early age.

It is for this reason that a Muslim Children’s Day program—with activities for the nourishment of the mind, body and soul—is proposed.  Specifically, this program aims to:

• teach and inculcate in Muslim children various Islamic values;
• provide them with an opportunity to showcase their talent and/or skills; 
• give “grownups” a chance to nurture the child within.
  

Islam & Diversity (Lecture/Forum)

13 October 2007; 3:00pm – 5:00pm

The Islamic perspective on issues of diversity is the least understood and the most misinterpreted by non-Muslims, and at times, by some Muslims as well. The predominant local cultural practices in different parts of the world and actions of some tend to reinforce erroneous perceptions of the Islamic perspective. Problems encountered are sometimes enhanced by tendencies, such as treating juristic interpretation as if identical with Islam.

Islamic position on any issue ought to be clearly differentiated between the normative teachings of Islam and the diversity of cultural practices. Thus, authentic overview of what “Islam” stands for as regards different issues must be based essentially on the Quran and authentic Sunnah.

Topics:

• Essential Islam - Professor Macrina A. Morados
• Islam As A Social System - Dr. Carmen A. Abubakar
• Islam and Diversity - Mr. Emre Serbetci

Testimonials

"There are certain developments that respond to increasing globalization in general and the post-September 11 war on terrorism in particular. An organization that spans both Mindanao and Manila is the Young Moro Professionals. Well-educated -- often doctors, lawyers, journalists, or others with advanced degrees -- this younger generation is qualified to compete in a globalized economy but also feels compelled to speak out on issues concerning Muslims in the Philippines."

-- Steven Rood (Forging Sustainable Peace in Mindanao: The Role of Civil Society)