Across from a local Tennessee church, a mosque sparks fear… and connection. When the Memphis Islamic Center planned to move across the street from Heartsong Church deep in the “Bible Belt,” the first reaction from the community was fear. It’s the same feeling most of us get when faced with people or communities we don’t understand. Instead of retreating, something unique happened: a banner welcoming the new neighbors. And slowly, things started to shift. They shared spaces, ran food and blood drives together, and even celebrated holidays. People who once seemed “other” became neighbors and friends. Fear and suspicion didn’t vanish overnight. But it shows how easy it is to let divides rule—and how small choices can chip away at them. Sometimes just showing up is enough to start breaking down walls. #Religion #Faith #Friendship #Mosque #Church #Hope