Al Amana Centre Newsletter 08/2026

This summer I have been back and forth between Oman and the US more than ever. I also have been travelling in the US to different partners and supporters. These journeys in the US have taken me from rural towns in the Midwest US, to urban settings in the Eastern US. I’ve been in Germany, Oman, and Egypt, where I was privileged to watch Egypt play in the World Cup surrounded by Egyptians. All this to say, I have encountered people from all walks of life, from different cultures, different religions, and different socio-economic classes. One thing that is held in common is that they are all generally good people who want peace in the world and to make a better future for their children and grandchildren.

The other thing that was obvious to me is that even though there is so much information available through the internet, people really don’t know much about people or places outside their own communities. As I share in the US about the war with Iran, or the violence between Israel and Palestine, and Israel and Lebanon, there is a general lack of good and nuanced information about the conflict and the people on either side. Most people don’t know what they don’t know, and don’t know where to look. There is also then, a lack of capacity for people to imagine the point of view of their “enemies” and to understand why they are responding the way they are.

My summer journeys have again instilled in me a realization that the work of Al Amana Centre is deeply needed in the world and they have continued to kindle in me a passion for this work, even as I live out of a suitcase and have slept on at least one airport bench so far this summer. We at Al Amana Centre, are committed to helping educate and tell the stories of people that don’t make the evening news or the sound bites of the 24-hour news cycle.

It is also why we are still actively planning for a full fall program schedule, even with the uncertainty of the war. We believe that people need to meet each other in person and to learn about each other through human interaction.  It is why we still need support, both to help tide us over during the uncertainty of war, and to give us the resources to continue to plan and execute the needed mission of Al Amana Centre.

I want to thank you all for your prayers as we continue to promote understanding and peace, and also ask you to prayerfully consider supporting us with financial resources as we navigate conflicts and severe disruption in our region of the world.

Peace to all,
Rev Justin Meyers
Executive Director

Justin speaking at the NCCMR – Network of Centers for Christian Muslim Relations Symposium in Egypt

Reflections from Participants

Read from Juliete, Evie, Rolfi and Kim on how they are still impacted and impacting others, months later, by their experience with Al Amana Centre.

• “Looking back, the experience was truly eye-opening, and I appreciate it even more now than I did when I first returned home. The hospitality we received, the meaningful conversations, and the relationships we formed have stayed with me. I left Oman with a deeper appreciation that we can remain firmly rooted in our own faith while genuinely listening to and learning from others. That lesson continues to shape both my personal relationships and my ministry. Thank you for creating a space where meaningful conversations, understanding, and lasting friendships could grow.”
• “I realized upon returning home that, when I began to share stories of my experiences in Oman, many people in my circles didn’t know what the Al Amana Centre is up to in the world. At first, I felt a little frustrated that my excitement could be met with confusion or misunderstanding. As I continued telling others about my time at the Al Amana Centre, I began noticing a shift in myself, starting to appreciate the curiosity of others and wanting to use those spaces for education and storytelling. I found myself adapting to meet the other person to further promote understanding and peace filled connection.”
• “in a sentence: a new awakening to the philosophical, social, and theological reality of the world.”
• I am more aware of the diversity of the community and those I come in contact with. I share with anyone I can.
• I spoke to one of my doctors, who is Muslim, she was very interested in the interfaith work being done to promote peace. I would never have brought it up, she is usually all business. It was empowering.
• Recently at a local diner I saw a family/group of women who were wearing a hijab. I was hoping they felt the same hospitality we were extended while we were in Oman.  There was no obvious disrespect or anger toward them. Just another family/group dining out, just like everyone else. Young families, coworkers, girl friends, couples.  As it should be.

Executive Director Justin will speak at several places in the US this coming summer and he would love to meet you:
Aug 9 Hope Church Holland, MI
Aug 16 Reformed Church of Port Ewen, NY
Aug 30 Grace Evangelical Free in Fond du Lac, WI

Would you like Justin to speak at your church, mosque, synagogue, temple, or institution?
Please contact us at info@alamanacentre.org with the subject “Speaking Request”.