Annual Iftar Dinner Draws over 400

On July 23, the Pakistani American Alliance for Compassion and Education (PACE) joined Interfaith Paths to Peace in hosting the annual Iftar dinner, a celebratory meal breaking the daily fast during Ramadan. The dinner was held at Second Presbyterian Church, and over 400 people of many faiths were in attendance.

Dr. Muhammad Babar, representing PACE, spoke about how wonderful it was to see people of different faiths joining the Muslim community, and specifically singled out the Jewish community … a timely reference in response to what is going on in the world.

The official program had a musical feel, as Cantor Sharon Hordes led off the program with two songs celebrating peace. John Gage followed with three beautiful folk songs, one of which he composed himself.

The featured act was Shaikh Kabir Helminski, a Sufi (Islamic Mystical sect) cleric who sang and played music while a whirling dervish twirled behind him.

Closing the formal portion of the evening was Terry Taylor, executive director of interfaith Paths to Peace, who recited an interfaith blessing over the food, and Dr. Syed Khader leading the Muslim call for evening prayer.

A buffet dinner catered by Jarfi’s capped this enjoyable and educational evening.

Republic Bank was among the primary sponsors.

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