Faith Matters

Faith Matters has this week released the findings of a study it conducted into converts to Islam. The report entitled 'A Minority within a Minority' whose release was sympathetically covered by both the BBC and The Independent debunks a number of misconceptions about converts to Islam.  Using data from online questionnaires, mosque telephone calls and Scottish Census information the report estimates new converts during 2010 might have reached as many as 100,000.  It also describes converts as being at ease with both Muslim and British identity and happy to live amongst non-Muslims.  

The widely held notion that people convert because of loved ones, rather than due to desire for the faith itself was rejected by the data.

Mosques also came under criticism by the report which found that converts did not receive resources they needed either before or after conversion, finding the internet, books and muslim friends much more helpful.

Finally the role of converts as a bridge between communities is proposed for the future.

Forming an alliance between those of different religions, Faith Matters website makes for an interesting read.  With pieces on supporting Muslim Chaplaincy and promoting interfaith harmony between Sikhs and Muslims its portfolio is impressive, however with reports on Prevent one should be mindful of the sensitivities of these issues and review all data with a critical mind.