Aref Nayed is a signatory and was the main spokesperson for the A Common Word Between Us and You Initiative, which is an open letter from leaders of the Islamic religion to leaders of the Christian religion. The letter calls for peace between Muslims and Christians and seeks common ground and understanding between both religions. The signatories include over 400 prominent academics, politicians, writers and muftis from around the world committed to peace and understanding.
In response to the A Common Word Initiative, the Catholic-Muslim Forum was established. Aref Nayed remains one of the key Muslim religious leaders and scholars who lead the Forum.