Fr. Phil (a Catholic), and Saima (a Muslim), co-wrote this reflection.
Saima: I met Fr. Phil on my first day of work in university ministry. He greeted me with Assalam-o-Alekum, the Muslim greeting in Arabic meaning “peace be upon you,” which I’m not accustomed to receiving from people of other faiths. Fr. Phil became a friend with whom I prayed when my mother was unwell, brainstormed when writing a grant proposal, and had spiritual conversations. When a regional conflict prevented me from returning to the U.S. from Pakistan where I was visiting my parents, Fr. Phil invited me to the prayer campaign on the Hallow app, “For Peace Between India and Pakistan,” which brought me much comfort by connecting me with a network of fellow believers and promoters of peace.
Fr. Phil: Saima was the first Muslim co-worker I had ever had. I was struck by how respectful she was of my Catholic faith, and how genuinely interested to ask profound questions to learn about aspects of Christian belief. Her curiosity sparked many good conversations, and gave me a good example of how I might dialogue in friendship with people of other faith traditions. Many times in our work together, I found we had common ground in the principles of peace, justice, and human dignity that undergird Catholic social teaching. And when it came to specifically Catholic events on campus, Saima was very often one of our strongest supporters and would often attend.
For both of us: These experiences, centered on God, helped us discover the humanity that binds us across various faith traditions – through which we can seek to end wars, serve the most vulnerable, and help young people find the next steps God is inviting them to take. We are grateful for the work we were able to do together, and the friendship we have.
Saima Adil Sitwat is the Assistant Director of Ecumenical and Interfaith Ministry at Loyola University Maryland, and is an author, educator, and speaker. saimasitwat.com
Fr. Phil Hurley, SJ began as National Director of the PWPN-USA on July 1 of this year.