There are two main pastoral issues in this situation. The first is the question of how hospitable churches should be during joys and troubles. Sharing joys and concerns in worship has biblical roots (Romans 12:15 and Galatians 6:2). It is a practice that has been carried out in churches for centuries. Churches use different ways to share their joys and concerns. This usually happens just before the pastoral prayer or prayers of the people. The first method of expressing joys and concerns is when the pastor opens the floor for everyone to stand up and express what they need prayer for and what they want to celebrate. The second way is often for worshipers to write their joys and concerns on small sheets of paper and the pastor will read them, as he sees fit, to the congregation. Many churches have decided to let the pastor decide what the congregation hears, because this time is sometimes unintentionally used for gossip. In Romans 12, Paul gives his thoughts on how Christians should live together and treat one another. Paul commands us to care for one another, live in harmony, and “rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.” What Paul is essentially saying is that if a member of the Church suffers, the Church must share in that suffering. If a member of the Church has an accomplishment or joy, the congregation should share in that joy. When Church members share their joys and concerns, the body of Christ and true hospitality become a reality. Another question that arises from this situation is how a pastor should respond when someone suggests something that is considered offensive or gossipy. Personally, I ...... middle of paper ......n to gain mutual understanding. When we develop friendships with Muslims as members of the human community from whom we have much to learn, we will be able to increase our respect and knowledge of Islam. Jim was truly afraid of Muslims and Sharia law. This fear and hatred that has manifested itself both in our worship and in our conversations is the kind of attitude that prevents better relations between Christians and Muslims. The action statement that closes the resolution calls on local congregations to develop ongoing relationships with Muslims. He urges us to initiate conversations, programs and dialogues that will lead to an understanding and appreciation of both Islam and Christianity. As a congregation of the United Methodist Church, the Brownsville UMC is called to maintain relationships with Muslims in surrounding communities..