When asked what can be done to address the dangerous standoff between the U.S. and Iran, Rev. Sohrabi said,
"Public awareness is important. If people know more they can influence government policy. The big issue right now is our country's nuclear power program. But we're only engaging a peaceful energy program. There is no evidence that we are developing weapons. If Americans find out the truth, they will act to influence their government's policy.
"What we can do is to pray together. Christians and Muslims can pray together.
"God will help whoever is trying to do what is right. If our government tries to make weapons of mass destruction, we hope cultured and religious people would stand up against us. We also hope that cultured and religious people in America will stand against attacks on us for exercising our rights.
"The roots of Islamic philosophy are based on the ancient Greeks, just like yours. Avicenna and Aquinas were close philosophical cousins. There are many influences of Islam on Western philosophy. And the West has contributed much too—the philosophy of science, epistemology, the philosophy of religion. Many here are interested in Western philosophy. We teach comparative religion, and investigate commonalities.
"Mystical spirituality in the West is very close to Shia mystical spirituality. When you are talking to God, differences disappear. Theological disputes dissolve. We all have the same language for talking to God. Our very own scriptures sometimes sound as though they are translations of each other. Why? Because they come from the same Source!
"Spirituality is the most firm foundation for coming together in a real way—not just between Islam and the West, but also for everyone in the whole world.
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