One challenge of facilitating a group exploring Islam is to stay grounded in order to guide the group to do the same. Begin by recognizing any preconceived notions you have about Muslims and Islam. Talk with your co-leader in advance of the workshop; share your level of familiarity with Islam and any biases you think you might bring. You can help each other identify prejudices and dispel biases by exposing them to one another. Establish how you will help each other keep biases from the workshop.

A great strength of Islam is how it permeates the daily lives of Muslims. Before the workshop, try for a few days to establish a gentle, consistent faith practice to experience the rhythm of living and breathing your faith. Try this:

Say a brief Unitarian Universalist meditation or prayer five times a day. Times could be: 1) when you wake, 2) before breakfast, 3) mid-day, 4) before dinner, 5) when you go to bed. Try to keep to the same times each day, even if that means adjusting your schedule.

The prayer or words of meditation should take less than a minute each time. Just be sure to give the experience your full attention.

On the day of the workshop, be sure to arrive early enough to spend a few minutes in restful silence and exchange blessings with your co-leader.