Social distancing is a major problem these days. We seem more polarized, more ready to place the other in the dark camp on the opposite side of an issue, political viewpoint AND religious belief. Just last week I saw a simple encounter in the grocery store parking lot escalate toContinue Reading
Tarqumiya Checkpoint. Yesterday I had a heartfelt conversation with an IDF soldier at the school checkpoint where I will be serving as “protective presence” for vulnerable children walking to and from school each day. I’m in Hebron in the West Bank to do this for 3 months. In a wayContinue Reading
I shared with a group of seniors last Sunday about an upcoming ministry I’ll be engaging in Israel and the West Bank for 3 months. I’m leaving in 3 weeks in fact. Yikes. Much to do before then. As I was reading scripture and putting my thoughts together forContinue Reading
I just completed a wonderful time of networking, engaging new friends from the other Abrahamic faiths, and learning an alternative approach to engaging situations of conflict, sometimes occurring in multi-religious contexts. We looked at the Muslim–Christian relationship this past week in particular at a Trac5 leadership summit in Denver. WeContinue Reading
This article recently appeared in The Covenant Companion as “Another Voice” guest contribution. Almost two years ago an amazing new chapter began in some efforts I have been a part of as a Covenant minister building bridges with Muslims. I had the wild opportunity to speak as a special guestContinue Reading
A Local Church Pastor
“Through personal storytelling, biblical preaching, and literally getting us out of the church and into a mosque, Andy walked alongside our church with the question, “Compelled by God’s love, what does it mean to love our Muslim neighbor?” Wise, gentle, and prophetic, Andy doesn’t just talk about peacemaking–he lives it.”Website
Lay Church Leader
“Andy spent a weekend at our church recently speaking about his bridge building relationships with Muslims. This approach resonates in contrast with so much media attention to extremists. It was a new message for a lot of our members, but they seemed willing to listen and be open because of Andy’s gentle and non-threatening presence. Now we can discuss this topic more freely and see our Muslim neighbors in a new light, building friendships as God leads.”
Professor of Reconciliation Studies
“We recognize you as an agent of change for reconciliation and an influential community leader. We’d like to invite you to influence the next generation of community leaders here at Seattle Pacific University.”
Pastor
“Andy Larsen recently gave a presentation and engaged our congregation around the question, “Who is our neighbor?” His knowledge and experience as a bridge-builder and peacemaker was evident as he encouraged us to look outside our normal circles of friendships. Andy is well-suited for this ministry as he travels effortlessly between Muslim and Christian communities and invites us to do the same.”
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