Scriptural ReasoningIntercultural ImmersionTrauma HealingStudy AbroadInterfaith PhotovoiceTailored Programming
Scriptural Reasoning
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) is an interfaith dialogue practice where individuals from different faith traditions gather in small groups to read passages from their holy scriptures. Through this shared exploration, participants foster a deeper understanding of others’ texts and nurture stronger relationships across traditions.
This powerful method moves participants beyond familiar religious boundaries to cultivate empathy and respect for different faith perspectives, without seeking agreement
Key components include:
- Interfaith Dialogue: SR creates a space for meaningful interfaith dialogue, allowing participants to explore scripture passages together.
- Learning from Others: Participants gain valuable insights into diverse interpretations and perspectives on scripture by reading alongside individuals from different faith traditions.
- Respectful Exchange: SR fosters an environment of mutual respect and open-mindedness, encouraging participants to engage in discussions that welcome diverse viewpoints.
- Relationship Building: The close engagement in SR nurtures connections and fosters a sense of shared understanding and connection beyond religious boundaries.
- Proven and Universal: SR is a practiced globally, bringing together students, professors, religious leaders, and community members across different cultures and regions. With the convenience of video-meeting technologies, SR groups can span across oceans and cultures, expanding opportunities for cross-faith dialogue and connection.
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For details or to participant in this program, please contact our Director of Programs, Jeffrey Bos.
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Learn more about Scriptural Reasoning through podcasts below or by visiting www.scripturalreasoning.org.
Intercultural Immersion
Building on Al Amana Centre’s history, relationship, and partnership with the Omani people and government we are happy to provide space and guidance to individuals and groups who wish to come to Oman and experience Arab culture, engage in mutual interreligious understanding, self-exploration of one’s own faith.
Our intercultural immersion programs can run anywhere from one day to two weeks, though we usually recommend 8-10 days as an efficient way to balance time and cost while still reaping benefits of being immersed in the local culture.
Al Amana’s experienced staff will work with you, your group, church, school, or organization to create a program that will meet your needs.
COST:
Costs vary depending on type of program, length of stay, accommodation, and group size. Generally, an 8-10 day program for 8-10 people staying at Al Amana Centre cost $2000-$2500 USD per person.
This includes all in country costs, i.e. lodging, food, in country transportation, fees, instruction, airport pickup.
Contact us for more information or to begin planning your immersion experience.
Trauma Healing
Healed individuals have the power to heal communities. Seeded with Al Amana Centre’s vision of sustained peace, our Trauma Healing program provides tangible hope and support to individuals affected by trauma, empowering them to become cultivators of healing and peace in their communities. Led by trained facilitators, participants engage with Biblical scripture, share their experiences, and embark on a transformative journey of restoration and emotional well-being. This program offers those affected by trauma the opportunity to embark on a healing journey, find support and companionship, and rediscover hope and resilience.
In collaboration with the Gulf Bible Society and the Trauma Healing Institute, this transformative program is designed to support Christians living in the Gulf Region, welcoming participants from all churches and congregations.
Through the following key components, we ensure effective outcomes:
- Collaborative Healing: Partnering with the Gulf Bible Society and the Trauma Healing Institute, we organize Bible-based community trauma healing groups.
- Supportive Environment: Our trained facilitators create a safe and inclusive space that fosters connection and understanding among participants.
- Bible-based Curriculum: Participants explore core topics such as suffering, healing, grief, forgiveness, and more, drawing wisdom from Biblical scriptures.
- Addressing Diverse Trauma: In addition to the core topics, our groups tackle various trauma-related subjects, including helping children, rape, domestic abuse, suicide, addictions, and preparing for trouble.
While our groups currently meet virtually on Zoom, we aspire to expand our program geographically and denominationally in the future, collaborating with other faith institutions to develop impactful initiatives.
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For details or to participate in this program, contact our Program Coordinator, Melissa Bos.
Study Abroad
A transformative educational experience that transcends boundaries. Through Al Amana Centre’s Study Abroad program, you will gain valuable insights into Muslim-Christian relations and engage in meaningful dialogue. Our comprehensive 16-credit undergraduate-level study abroad program offers a range of courses and unique opportunities for cultural immersion, providing you with a life-changing learning experience.
Program Components:
- Arabic Language (6 credits): Immerse yourself in the Arabic language through an intensive course that cultivates effective communication skills and fosters a deeper connection with the local community.
- Oman Culture and Society (4 credits): Explore the rich tapestry of Omani culture, delving into its vibrant history, traditions, and societal dynamics. Gain a profound appreciation for the interplay between culture, religion, and society in Oman.
- Christian-Muslim Relations and Dialogue (4 credits): Engage in a comprehensive study of Christian-Muslim relations, delving into the complexities of these two faith traditions and their global interactions. Foster a deeper understanding and explore pathways for interfaith cooperation and harmony.
- Integrated Experiential Learning (2 credits): Bring your knowledge to life through hands-on experiences and immersive field trips throughout Oman. Engage with local communities, visit significant cultural sites, and witness the diverse beauty of the country.
At Al Amana Centre, we understand the numerous exciting study abroad opportunities available to students. However, we believe what our program offers is truly life-shaping. Students leave our program equipped for purpose—to make a meaningful impact in our divided world.
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Contact our team for more details.
Interfaith Photovoice
This arts-based program—founded by our partner Interfaith PhotoVoice—promotes dialogue and harmony among diverse faith communities through the expression of photography. Participants engage in a transformative experience where they capture and share powerful images that reflect their personal experiences, beliefs, and emotions related to faith. These images serve as a bridge for breaking down walls, cultivating empathy, and opening up new possibilities for understanding and connection within communities of differing faiths.
This innovative program features:
- Creative Arts: Participants utilize the powerful medium of photography to explore and discuss topics of religion, spirituality, and community challenges.
- Shared Experiences: Small and large group discussions that uncover common needs, concerns, and experiences across different faith traditions.
- Public Exhibition: Curate an art exhibition to communicate your unique perspectives, narratives, and aspirations, offering a platform for community engagement.
Al Amana Centre joyfully partners with Interfaith PhotoVoice on a variety of projects that promote religious freedom and understanding across the Gulf Region, Africa, South East Asia, and beyond.
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Contact us to learn how you can participate in this program.
Tailored Programming
With a rich legacy of 130 years of collaboration between Christians and Muslims in the Sultanate of Oman, we provide a uniquely safe and inclusive space for individuals from diverse faith communities to come together, engage in dialogue, and build lasting connections.
Al Amana Centre’s multicultural team resides full-time in community near the Centre, embodying and exemplifying the principles that guide our work on a daily basis. This context, coupled with our team’s deep expertise in theology, pastoral care, and hospitality, means that we are uniquely positioned to create a transformative program tailored to your group’s needs.
Programs can include:
- Interfaith Dialogue and Engagement: Participate in expertly facilitated conversations that promote mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration among participants from different faith traditions.
- Cultural Immersion and Exploration: Embark on guided visits to local Islamic, Christian, and Hindu places of worship, engage with religious leaders, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and traditions of Oman.
- Peacebuilding and Reconciliation Workshops: Learn and practice conflict resolution techniques, dialogue skills, and reconciliation methods aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and social harmony.
- Scriptural Reasoning Sessions: Join interfaith groups for shared readings and discussions of sacred texts, gaining insights into diverse interpretations and perspectives from participants representing different faith traditions.
- Personal Reflection and Spiritual Practices: Find moments of serenity and introspection through guided reflection, prayer, and contemplative practices in serene natural settings: on awe-inspiring mountain tops, amid the gently blowing sand of the desert, or near the peaceful rolling waves of the ocean.
- Customized Lectures and Workshops: Tailor-made sessions on topics such as interfaith relations, cultural understanding, peacebuilding, and social justice, delivered by our knowledgeable team or guest speakers.
- And much more.
In the safe and intentional environment of our Centre, your group will have the opportunity to cultivate deep understanding, foster sustainable peace, and build bridges of harmony among diverse faith communities.
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Contact our team to begin your journey.
