CMLLC's Saeed Khan speaks at the Vatican

Saeed Khan, a renowned expert in Islam and a respected lecturer in Wayne State University's Department of Classical and Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures, was invited to Rome last February. He spoke at the prestigious international conference,' Cor Unum,' organized by the Pontifical Council to commemorate the tenth anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI's first encyclical, 'Deus Caritas Est.' The title of the encyclical, 'God is Love,' resonates not only with the Catholic faith but also with the Islamic faith, a concept that Khan, with his profound knowledge, eloquently discussed.

During his speech, Khan delved into the concept of mercy, a value that he explained is central to the Muslim faith and has deep roots in Catholicism. He emphasized that this understanding of mercy starkly contrasts the distorted interpretations of some extremist groups. In an interview on February 25, Khan elaborated, stating that mercy is' the core of Islam' and that the Muslim concept of mercy' is an expansion of Catholic notions of mercy.' He further clarified that while mercy, in general terms, means 'showing compassion and forgiveness for those in need,' in Islam, it also signifies 'a blessing and a gift.'

Following the conference, a special moment unfolded when Pope Francis, known for his commitment to interfaith dialogue, met with the presenters. He expressed his gratitude for their mission of charity. In a heartwarming exchange, Khan, speaking in Spanish, presented the Pope with gifts, including a t-shirt from Detroit in pontifical purple. The Pope, appreciating the gesture, gave it a thumbs up, symbolizing the spirit of unity and respect the conference aimed to foster.