First Presbyterian Church of Franklin To Host Interfaith Series with Samar Ali

Franklin, TN — First Presbyterian Church Franklin will host a three-week Wednesday evening series titled “My Faith as a Muslim in America,” featuring nationally recognized speaker Samar Ali, successive Wednesdays beginning January 28. The series will take place in the church sanctuary from 6:30–7:30 PM and is open to the church and the broader Franklin community.

In a time of growing polarization and misunderstanding around faith and identity, the series is designed to encourage respectful dialogue, deeper understanding, and meaningful engagement across differences.

“This series is an expression of our Christian call to welcome the stranger, listen before we speak, and seek peace with our neighbors,” said Eddie Bellis, Interim Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Franklin. “By learning about a faith that is often misunderstood, we strengthen both our compassion and our community.”

Samar Ali is a Vanderbilt University Professor of Political Science and Law and a leader in the Vanderbilt Project of Unity and American Democracy. She is the founder of Millions of Conversations, an organization designed to transcend divides by bringing Americans together around common values. She will share her personal story and explore what it means to live and practice Islam in contemporary American culture.

Series Schedule:

• January 28: Islam 101: What It Is and What It Is Not

• February 4: Islam and Muslims in America

• February 11: Questions & Answers about the Muslim Faith

All are invited to attend, learn, and engage in a spirit of respect and curiosity.

Event Details:

First Presbyterian Church Franklin, 101 Legends Club Lane, Franklin, TN

Sanctuary | 6:30–7:30 PM

Wednesdays: Jan. 28, Feb. 4, Feb. 11