DR. TAMARA GRAY
Dr. Tamara Gray is a founder of Rabata, an organization dedicated to promoting positive cultural change through creative educational experiences. As President and CEO, she focuses on uplifting Muslim women within community and without. She has a special interest in digital spaces in faith communities. Dr. Gray holds a doctorate in leadership from the University of St. Thomas, a master’s degree in Curriculum Theory and Instruction from Temple University and spent twenty years in traditional learning spaces studying Islamic sciences, Quran, and Arabic in Damascus, Syria.
Dr. Gray is also an author and translator. Her publications range from several culturally appropriate English language curriculum programs to translations of sacred texts. She has authored two books: Joy Jots: Exercises for a happy heart & Project Lina: Bringing our whole selves to Islam and co-translated the Mukhtasir al-Jami’ fi al-Sīra al-Nabawiyya by Shaykha Samīra Zayid [Compendium of the Collection of Sources on al-Sīra al-Nabawiyya]. She is currently working on a third book about theology and creed.
In addition to her work at Rabata, Dr. Gray also serves as a Senior Fellow at the Yaqeen Institute and is a member of the Fiqh Council of North America. She has recently taken on the position of Board Chair for the Minnesota Multifaith Network. Dr. Gray is Full Focus Certified Pro exemplifying her commitment to productivity and impactful leadership.
She is a mother of three, grandmother of two, an avid reader and a lover of cultures, coffee, and road trips.
WHAT IS FRIDAY GEMS?
Friday Gems is CelebrateMercy’s weekly live online program, which aims to further our mission to help people discover the truth about Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and transform their lives through his beautiful example and teachings.
For the average busy Muslim adult, it’s a great way to maintain a consistent connection with the most beloved ﷺ of God, on the most blessed day of the week.
Part 1 (30 min) of the session is a fulfillment of the tradition of the Prophet ﷺ to engage meaningfully with the 18th chapter of the Quran, The Cave (al-Kahf), every Friday. This practice holds various virtues. English translation is shown on the screen with the Arabic verses so that it’s a meaningful experience for the audience.
Part 2 (35 min) is an inspiring and practical reminder delivered by one of our esteemed teachers on a certain aspect of the Prophet’s ﷺ life, character and teachings. This is coupled with references to relevant passages in the Quran. The topic is presented in a manner that’s applicable to one’s own life, today’s world and current events.
Part 3 (25 min) is a heartfelt discussion and Q&A between the teacher and the audience. It’s a great opportunity to foster community and support one another, no matter where a person is in their journey. Emulating the Prophetic example, prayers and encouragement are exchanged, leading to a heart softening and spiritually uplifting experience.