AMERICANS ARE INVITED TO CONVERT TO ISLAM

The latest ranting from Osama bin Laden, celebrated the ugly work of the September 11 terrorists, also invited all Americans to convert to Islam. Some have said "No thanks!" I say No Way! As a Muslim convert to Christianity notes, "we have more to worry about than violent attacks. We should be just as concerned about the quiet inroads Islam is making in Western societies."

Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo, who was born into a Muslim family, is now an Anglican priest living in England. He is the author of several books about Islam, and as a former Muslim, he brings a knowledgeable perspective about Islamic attitudes.

Sookhdeo notes that the process of migrating and establishing Muslim communities in non-Muslim areas is an important part of Islamic theology. Muslims view the establishment of Muslim communities in Britain as a contemporary migration, called a hijra.

In England and France, this has already begun. Muslims have created large enclaves in urban centers in which sharia law is in effect, in "areas of finance and mortgages; halal food in schools, hospitals, and prisons, faith schools funded by the state; prayer rooms in every police station in London." Instead of assimilating into the larger culture, Muslims have, he says, created a "parallel society in the UK."

Doubtless there are such communities in the US. Detroit has a very large Muslim community. In many areas, Muslim rights are protected while Judeo-Christian rights are being trampled upon. We must do our part to insure that our children receive the best religious education possible so they are able to defend their faith. If not, your great-great grandchildren may be offered Arabic as an elective in High School!

Paul