EXCELSIOR — The Evangelical Lutheran Church is hosting a two-day conference designed to build bridges between Christians and those of Muslim faith.

The conference is today and Saturday. Experts will talk about tough topics, including how to overcome barriers put up by extremist preachers.

Many of the activities take place at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Excelsior, but the event also includes a day trip to Minneapolis’ Cedar Riverside neighborhood.

Participants will break into small-group sessions on topics such as the Somali stories behind the movie Captain Phillips, sustainable food programs, youth music outreach and mentoring programs. Participants will also tour a Somali mall, pack food for The Pantry food shelf in the Cedar Riverside community, and attend a Somali musical performance.