ICNA Observes World Interfaith Harmony Week
New York, NY: As part of its commitment to foster a global culture of peace, the Islamic Circle of North America joined in celebrating World Interfaith Harmony Week during the first week of February.
Faith is the central aspect of life for billions across the globe, be they Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, or from any other religious community. ICNA’s vision includes promoting meaningful discourse between followers of different faiths.
Cooperation and dialogue are built upon a foundation of mutual respect. In an increasingly connected world, it is especially important to foster understanding among people of different belief systems.
Islam encourages Muslims to “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.” [16:125]
“To each of you We prescribed a law and a method. Had Allah willed, He would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so race to [all that is] good.” [5:48]
Interfaith harmony is crucial at a time when the world is witness to the atrocious events enacted in the name of religion by one community against another. This violence, whether it is political, social, or environmental, is an affront to the teachings of any religion.
In the transformational times the world is going through, it is imperative for the faith communities in masajid (mosques), synagogues, churches, temples and other places of worship, to become forces for societal good.
“By working together we can generate positive change and effectively tackle the problems that plague us all – poverty, exploitation, and violence,” said Naeem Baig, president of ICNA.
ICNA is the co-chair of Catholic Muslim Mid-Atlantic Dialogue, a member of Religion for Peace USA, and works with many other faith organizations toward social empowerment and change.
The Islamic Circle of North America is a leading American Muslim organization dedicated to the betterment of society through the application of Islamic values. Since 1968, ICNA has worked to build relations between communities by devoting itself to education, outreach, social services and relief efforts.
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