What's going on in Nigeria? Is there really a group with the strange name of "Boko Haram" that wants to squash Western influence?

Those questions were on my mind as I prepared to spend two weeks in Nigeria this past December. I was anxious to learn more about this movement for a couple of reasons. As a clearly marked white westerner, wearing the clerical collar of a Christian church, I was concerned for my safety. Also, as one who has been intricately involved with the Nigerian church, I wanted to know what my brothers and sisters were dealing with.

On the trip happily I was not near the areas of bombing. I had intended to go to one place, Bauchi, but after the police station and bank there were bombed and shot up, I decided to forego that visit. Over the two weeks I met and talked with several people who gave me some insights about Boko Haram, the influence of Christians, and the risks of the church's bold witness.

On February 7, I will be describing the situation of Boko Haram, telling stories of Christian witness, sharing the story of a former suicide bomber, and laying out prayer needs of Nigeria.

I hope you can join us at the Beckett Center.

Tad de Bordenave

Location: 8003 Franklin Farms Drive, Suite 102, Henrico, VA 23229
If possible, please let us know you are planning to attend: director.ccui@gmail.com or (804) 355-0267. Thank you.

                                                                                                                                                                          Feburary 24 at 11 a.m. (Meet at The Beckett Center at 8003 Franklin Farms Drive, Suite 102.)

The thought of visiting a masjid (mosque) to see the facility and to see how Muslims worship has crossed the minds of many Christians. So what keeps them from making the visit? Perhaps, feelings of apprehension about the unknown, as well lack of etiquette knowledge, leave Christians pondering but not going.

On February 24, please join The Beckett Center for a visit to an area masjid. You will be accompanied by a Christian with vast experience in Christian-Muslims relationships and many masjid visits. Maybe you and several Christian friends would like to share this experience together.

Everyone who has visited a masjid with The Beckett Center has come away with a deeper understanding of Islam from a Christian persepctive.

Contact us with questions or to make reservations: director.ccui@gmail.com or (804) 355-0267.

                                                                                                                                 The Beckett Center for Christian Understanding of Islam (BCCUI) welcomes you to our web site and invites you to visit The Beckett Center Mondays through Thursdays (hours listed below).

BCCUI offers assistance to Christian congregations, individuals, and organizations. To discover how we can assist you or your Christian group, please e-mail or call to make an appointment to discuss your needs. We will gladly meet with you at times that are convenient for you. The Beckett Center looks forward to serving you and helping you in your ministries. 

Hours of The Beckett Center: Mondays and Wednesdays – 10 a.m. till 2 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays – 8 a.m. till 12 Noon. The schedule may very, however, so please call The Center before your visit and talk with someone. The Center also offers guided tours of its museum by reservation, including in the evenings and on weekends. For more information about tours, please click on the “Guided Tour” tab under the “Learning Center” tab above.

Our search for a new BCCUI director and executive director of the Foundation for Advanced Study and Training is in full swing. Applications are still being received. Click for Job description.