Firebrand evangelist Pastor James McConnell is taking part in a two-day ecumenical event bringing together Christian, Jewish and Muslim speakers with politicians and intellectuals from across the cultural spectrum.
The outspoken preacher, who hit the headlines when he described Islam as “Satanic” and “a doctrine spawned in Hell” was joined at the event last night by Sheikh Dr Muhammad Al-Hussain, Senior Fellow in Islamic Studies at the Westminster Institute, London, and Fr Patrick McCafferty, a Belfast priest.
Despite later apologising, Pastor McConnell was prosecuted for his remarks, only for a court to acquit him.
During the trial, Dr Al-Hussain testified in support of the preacher’s right to free speech.
Also in attendance were Sheikh Dr Umar Al Qadri and Sheikh Dr Ali Saleh, as well as a delegation from the Belfast Islamic Centre.
The Meeting of People of Influence event continues today at the An Cuan centre in Rostrevor, Co Down.