Orthodoxy and Islam to be discussed in Ohio

LIMA, OH (OCA) - Father Daniel Byantoro, the founder of the Indonesian Orthodox Mission and a convert from Islam, will be among the speakers at a conference titled "Orthodoxy and Islam: Crisis and Opportunity," at Saint Stephen the First Martyr Orthodox Mission here August 19-21, 2011.

Father Daniel has spoken extensively in Orthodox parishes across North America.

"Featuring respected pastors, authors and speakers -- two of whom are converts from Islam -- the conference is designed to provide Orthodox Christians with new resources, perspectives, and understandings of the complex topic of Islam," said Archpriest Mark Hodges, host pastor and author of An Orthodox Response to Terrorism. "The conference hope to educate as well as equip the faithful to engage with Muslims while sharing with them the Gospel."

Other speakers include Anthony Davar, a convert from Islam, writer and missionary; Raymond Ibrahim, author/editor of The Al Qaeda Reader and Associate Director of the Middle East Forum, and Ralph H. Sidway, author of Facing Islam: What the Ancient Church Has To Say About The Religion Of Muhammad.

The conference opens at 7:00 p.m on Friday, August 19, and closes after the Divine Liturgy, luncheon, and closing session on Sunday, August 21.

The requested donation is $20.00 per person, $30.00 per family. Financial assistance is available upon request.

To register and/or to obtain additional information contact Father Mark at fr.mark.hodges@juno.com or 419-224-8600.