Series continues on 'Islam and Muslims in America' Jan. 23

First Congregational Church of Geneva continues its series of free discussions aimed at gaining a better understanding of "Islam and Muslims in America" from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23. The discussion will be held in the church's Mayflower Room, 327 Hamilton St. Admission is free.

As an interfaith church, the First Congregational is committed to interreligious dialogue and understanding. The discussion host will be Inamul Haq, professor of Islamic studies at Elmhurst College.

Haq teaches in the religious studies department at Elmhurst College and Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. His area of expertise is Islamic studies. Previously he has been principal of two Islamic day schools in Chicago. He is a founding member of the International Strategy and Policy Institute, an Oak Brook-based think tank. He served on the Chicago Committee of Human Rights Watch and on the board of the Cardinal Bernadine Center of Catholic Theological Union. Haq is also a honorary Imam in Chicago. He has been frequently interviewed by local media, including the Chicago Tribune and PBS regarding issues covering Islam and Muslims. He studied at International Islamic University in Islamabad, Pakistan, and at Drew University in New Jersey.

Previous workshops presented by Professor Haq included an introduction to Islam, and "Islam and the West," which were very well received. This third discussion will focus on current global issues surrounding Islam, including an analysis of ISIS and Islamic Jihad.

For details, call (630) 232-7143 or visit www.genevaucc.org or www.facebook.com/fccg.ucc/.