The current mosque in Preston, Noor Street

Preston Muslim Forum launched its dialogue series “Unveiling Islam” at Christ Church, Preston on 7th July.

The series coincides with new plans for a mosque being submitted for a site near Preston City Centre. Preston Muslim Cultural centre (PMCC) wants to create the place of worship on Grafton Street, adjacent to its existing premises on Fishergate Hill.

Organiser and facilitator of Preston Muslim Forum, Ali Amla, said: “I was pleasantly surprised when the church filled up with more than seventy people”.

The evening opened with food, followed by a short presentation on “Islam in Britain ” exploring the historical relationship between Islam and Europe.

The final hour was dedicated to a question and answer session, exploring issues such as integration, equality, creation theory, sectarianism and Muslims in Britain today.

Reverend Peter Hamborg said “Ali hosted a stimulating evening at Christ Church entitled “Islam in Britain .”

“He painted for us a very enlightening picture of Britain ‘s mixed history with Islam, one that was far more balanced than the largely negative portrayal we so often receive through the media.

“This led well into some further presentation regarding the diverse and complex reality of British Islam today, followed by some quite vigorous discussion which Ali handled with expertise, sensitivity, and nuance.

“It was a pleasure to welcome Ali to Christ Church”.

Further workshops are planned for July, entitled ‘Jesus in Islam’ on 20 July, which offers an opportunity to discuss how Jesus is viewed within Islam and Christianity, and ‘Building Bridges: Our Shared Heritage’ on 25 July.

Registering for the events is free and can be done by calling 01772889000 or emailing Prestonmuslimforum@live.co.uk.