JCU Welcomes Imam Pallavicini, Director of Italy's Islamic Community

Imam Yahya Pallavicini

On November 6, the John Cabot University Interfaith Initiative launched its International Scholar Series on Interfaith Dialogue. JCU had the privilege to host Imam Yahya Pallavicini, Director and Imam of Italy’s Comunità Religiosa Islamica (Islamic Religious Community) as guest speaker to initiate the series.

After an introduction by Dean Mary Merva, President Franco Pavoncello and Professor Michael Driessen welcomed Imam Pallavicini to JCU and stressed the importance of interfaith conversations and dialogue. The Imam spoke about the relevance of interreligious dialogue in relation to the current Muslim community in Europe. In addition, the Imam gave an insightful account of his work as an Imam in Europe and on the role of Muslims in European societies today.

In conclusion, a round table discussion based on scholarly readings took place between Imam Pallavicini and four students (Giacomo Sproccati, Christian Tracci, Ekaterina Soubeva, and Valentina Capotosto).

The event, which was sponsored by the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See in Rome, was also part of the International Conference on Imams in Western Europe, hosted by LUISS and John Cabot University.

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