For those interested in the theological and practical dimensions of Christian-Muslim relations, a seminar starting in Cairo later this year will provide a remarkable opportunity. This joint program between Fuller Theological Seminary, the Woodberry Intercultural Institute, and Al-Azhar in Cairo will focus on the Ṣūfī spiritual tradition in Islam. The seminar will be offered twice from December 29th (2024) to January 13th (2025) and then again from January 12th to January 27th (2025). The scholar organizing the course is Dr. Joseph Cumming, a leading figure in Christian-Muslim relations who brings a unique blend of advanced academic scholarship and practical experience having spent decades living in the MENA region. Dr. Cumming’s strong personal relationship with the current Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Dr. Aḥmed al-Ṭayyib, is one of the main reasons such a unique seminar is possible. 

(The Grand Imam, Dr. Aḥmed al-Ṭayyeb, greets Dr. Joseph Cumming at his al-Azhar office known as the mashaykah.)

Dr. Ḥasan al-Shāfiʿī, one of the most respected Islamic theologians in Egypt today, has helped to create the curriculum which will involve lectures from expert Al-Azhar professors in Arabic and English, Christian-Muslim dialogue, and visits to Ṣufī sites around Cairo. The seminar is designed for Christian students of theology and interfaith relations, but interested people from any background are encouraged to apply. 

Sometimes referred to as Islamic mysticism, Ṣūfism is occasionally presented as an exotic minority trend within Islam, but this can be extremely misleading. Rather, Ṣufi theology, spirituality, ethics, and praxis have powerfully shaped and permeated the Islamic tradition as a whole and are more accurately understood as core components of the religion itself. In the contemporary world, it is mainly the Wahhābī tradition associated with Saudi Arabia that objects in various ways to the practice and influence of Ṣufism. The upcoming seminars will provide an unparalleled opportunity to engage with this important tradition.

Academic credit may be available through Fuller Seminary and other institutions. For our readers who work in academic and pastoral contexts, we hope you will let others know about this remarkable opportunity. For further information, please see the attached brochure and/or email [email protected].

All the very best,