History of COMMA
In 1997, several key missionaries sensed the need to develop a network to encourage each other in their efforts to fulfill the Great Commission among Muslims in North America. Twenty-four workers spent two years locating existing ministries and identifying workers with them. The first consultation was held at a school in Indiana. The purpose was to bring together people who are doing ministry, to share best practices and develop a network so workers could be connected.
Out of this first consultation, the papers were compiled into a book titled, The Gospel for Islam: Reaching Muslims in North America, edited by Roy Oksnevad and Dotsey Welliver, EMIS, Wheaton, IL, 2001.
It was determined at that time that it would be good to meet together every two years to renew friendships and continue the process of information sharing. Thus COMMA was born. COMMA has grown to include an e-mail service connecting workers together, monthly newsletters, a website, Twitter and Facebook. The monthly newsletters include news articles of interest, resources, latest research on Islam in North America, training opportunities and new publications.
Consultations
The first COMMA Consultation was held October 1999. The purpose of the consultations is to encourage, strengthen, and refresh those who are doing ministry, particularly among the Muslims now located in our cities, towns and neighborhoods. We desire to expose the worker to the broad spectrum of methods and approaches currently being used in reaching people for Christ. We also provide the venue where organizations and ministries can meet each other and establish new significant partnerships, locally, regionally and nationally.
Tools
The COMMA coalition and its consultations expose workers to ministry tools, networking contact and research information necessary to better minister to Muslims in North America. It also provides vital information on how to reach Muslims for Christ in North America. COMMA also services the church in North America by providing information on reaching our Muslim neighbors, co-workers and fellow citizens.
Leadership
COMMA leadership is made up of individuals who are actively involved in ministry. The areas that are represented are:
- Canada
- United States
- Muslim Background Believers
- Ministry to Muslim women
- International students
- African American Islam
- Islam in the academy
- Online Ministry to Muslims