A Ramadan interfaith iftar dinner event led by Pacifica Institute and Congregation Netivot Shalom in the framework of promoting interfaith dialogue was held at Netivot Shalom Synagogue in Berkeley. The event brought together more than 100 people from many faiths to build understanding between different communities and contribute to the common good.
The event started with the welcoming remarks by Serena Heaslip. Afterwards, The quests were invited to hold a moment of silence and pray for the victims of Orlanda shooting.
A musical performance by Linda Hirshhorn was followed by the opening remarks by Ilana Kaufman and Fatih Ates who presented informative videos about Pacifica Institute and Ramadan.
A panel discussion, conducted by Fatih Ates, Rabbi Menachem Creditor, Rabbi Rebekah Stern and Rev. Michael Burch, was undertaken on the subject of “The Art of Living Together : Building Relationships”. Appreciating the initiative to facilitate such an important stage for interfaith dialogue, the panelists spoke of Muslim, Christian and Jewish perspectives on the subject and noted the importance of interreligious relations with communities of other faiths.
Iftar started with a call to prayer, adhan, marking the moment to break the fast was recited by Fatih Ates and the quests were invited to the iftar tables to enjoy sharing dinner and getting to know each other.
The event, giving a unique opportunity for the attendees to establish peace, unity and harmony between people of any faith, race or community, came to conclusion after the impressive live performance of Ebru art, water marbling, by an Ebru artist Hulya Yaatasi.
