The title of the event “Crossing Thresholds” invited participants to explore the meaning of entering a different experience where our knowledge of and attitudes to cultures and religions can be explored and celebrated.  The first day was devoted to interreligious dialogue with input and sharing on the figure of Maria in the Christian Tradition and Miriam in the Islamic tradition. The Islamic tradition was presented by Yaratullah Monturiol, a young woman convert to Islam and expert on Islamic studies. She co- president of the UNESCO Chair of Interreligious Dialogue in Barcelona.  She deepened and enriched our insights into Mary.  Gerardo Sanchez O.P. from the Department of Interreligious Studies on Judaism, Christianity and Islam, in Valencia reflected on the meaning of key events in the life of Mary.

  After a typical Moroccan meal we had time to share our personal reflections and we finished the day with sacred songs from the Sufi tradition sung by a local group.

  On Saturday 3rd November, the IBVM community in Asilah shared their experience of life in this town, members of the tiny Christian community in a Muslim country.  Visitors were had time to visit the works in which we are involved, guided by young Muslim men and women who are students or co- workers at our Center. The recently restructured classrooms provide more space for computer training, literacy, industrial sewing, English and Spanish language class. The micro-credit office located in the local market offers opportunities to many local people to better their lives.  Al Amal, a Hispano Moroccan Association initiated by the IBVM and aided by Spanish Overseas Aid is now run by a group of local people.  One member of the IBVM Community is on the Board of Directors.  In the afternoon, the Hassan II International Conference Center was packed for a concert given by Folklore groups for Morocco and Spain.  Most of the town must have heard about the concert because people began to flock in as we were about to begin. 

Those of us who have taken part in celebration leave with an experience that has given us lots to ponder. We thank the Community in Asilah for showing us a world where respect,  and a sincere, positive way of relating to peoples of a different culture and religion break down barriers of fear and create bonds which nurture the dignity of all human beings.