Linda Arrillaga and Jennifer Bryson collaborate on a series of classes on Islam

Ladera resident Linda Arrillaga (top) found herself setting next to Menlo Park resident Jennifer Bryson at a church conference last summer. Little did they  realize that this chance encounter would lead to what is a very topical series of classes on Islam that will kick off on Saturday at the Ladera Recreation Center on Alpine Road.

While both Christian by faith, Linda discovered that Jennifer had “a passion and love for the study of Islam.”

“It occurred to me that given Jennifer’s knowledge, we could do something  in depth, that would help educate others in our area,” Linda said.

The result is the Learn About Islam Study Group, which is open to the community. It will run for five weeks on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm beginning January 16. (Note: the last class is March 19th not 12th.) There is a materials fee of $20 ($30 per family) with registration available online.

Jennifer Bryson (above – previously profiled on InMenlo) will be teaching three classes, joined by Dr. Rick Love, who is president of Peace Catalyst International, along with about a dozen Muslims who will meet with participants in small groups at the last session.

“I would hope that people are open to exploring other faiths,” said Linda, “and to understand that it takes some work to gain understanding.

“There is a lot of fear based on what’s happening around the world, but I believe if you shine a light on a topic and then add air, it will grow — our knowledge will expand. In our humanity, we are all the same.”

Photos of Linda Arrillaga and Jennifer Bryson by Irene Searles (c)2016