Interfaith Iftar at the Worcester Islamic Center
By Tahir Ali
Worcester, MA: The annual WIC interfaith Iftar/Dinner, held at the Worcester Islamic Center, was largely attended by people of the Abrahamic faiths. Worcester officials present on the occasion included: Mayor of Worcester Joseph Petty, State Senator Michael Moore, Deputy Chief of Police Edward McGinn, and Worcester Unitarian Church Minister Rev Aaron Payson.
Moderator Amber, keeping one eye on the clock, kept the pace moving rather smoothly as she invited speakers one after another. Dr Ramzan, apparently happy with the nice turnout despite the icy weather, welcomed all the guests, public officials, and the group of Physicians who sponsored the event. He also thanked those working tirelessly behind the scenes, namely, Dr Laila who is also the VP of the WIC women's team, Dr Shameem, Yasmeen, Sahar, Shabira, and Shahida. Plus Mr Ahmed and Mr. Logan.
Mufti Abdullah Shaikh, gave a befitting speech. "...Australians are also Muslims, people from Mawiya are also Muslims. people from every single background are also Muslims and that is the beauty of Islam, that it is not restricted to one culture or one race." He mentioned that two people sitting together, may come from different places and may not even know each other, "but you are equal in terms of how you practice in the eyes of Allah." Abdullah also added, "We believe in one God, 'Allah' and we believe in all the prophets: Moses was a prophet, Jesus was a Prophet ..."
Rev Payson, believed that such events are very important in bringing people of the Books on the same plateau, so that good prevails. Deputy McGinn expressed his gratitude for the kind invitation while noting that he finds the Muslim community peaceful and law-abiding, in his city. Mayor Petty, perhaps one of the most frequent visitors at WIC and other Islamic centers in the area, spoke highly of such events. Senator Moore in praising these efforts said, "And I am going to thank you for putting this together. This truly symbolizes what Worcester city stands for - diversity."
The evening went well with lots of food and cordial conversations all around. The event finished right on time with a roar of laughter when I just couldn't resist adding amusingly: We have the police chief here, so if anyone has any outstanding ticket, now is a good time to get it fixed.
