Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on November 14, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Pilgrimage” with our study leader, Dr. Mehmet Saracoglu, from the Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization.

Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.

                   Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction                    Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

                  Christian Scripture: New Testament                         Islamic Scripture: Quran

This Month`s Study Leader

Dr. Mehmet Saracoglu is a community organizer with academic experience who brings passion and leadership together. He is the Director of the Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization (CFIG) at Rumi Forum. Previously, he served at Rumi Forum as the Public Affairs Director, Government, Media, and Community Affairs Director (Washington, DC), and Executive Director (Maryland). During his graduate studies at the University of Kentucky, he served as the founding president of the Interfaith/ Intercultural Dialogue Organization. Mehmet is an alum of Leadership Montgomery`s 2019 Emerging Leaders cohort. He is a member of the United Nations Association-National Capital Area, National Press Club, and Public Diplomacy Council`s Citizen Diplomacy International. Mehmet is a 2023 BJC (Baptist Joint Committee) Fellow.