On Friday, November 22nd, 2024, (20th Jamadul Awa’l,1446 A.H.) the Imam Al-Khoei Islamic Center and Al-Iman School welcomed a delegation from Bethel Fellowship Church, an Anabaptist community located in Holmes County, Ohio.
This visit, organized by the Ministry Training Center in New York City, sought to foster interfaith understanding and provide participants with an invaluable opportunity to share their own faith while exploring the richness of Islamic traditions and culture.
The delegation, comprising families, young adults, and children, was warmly greeted by Principal Imam Dakmak-Rakka, who graciously introduced them to the core principles of Islam.
This welcoming gesture set the stage for a meaningful exchange of ideas and experiences. The group then joined the congregation for the Jumma (Friday) sermon, delivered by Sheikh Maan Al-Sahlani, followed by the opportunity to observe the Islamic prayer. This unique experience gave the visitors a rare and intimate glimpse into Islamic worship, sparking a deep sense of curiosity and respect for the traditions that are central to the Muslim faith.
Following the prayer, the guests had the privilege of participating in Al-Iman School’s Helping Hand Bake Sale, a community initiative organized by the students. They were also treated to a beautiful Quran recitation, which further deepened their appreciation for the spiritual depth and beauty inherent in Islamic practices.
The day culminated in a heartwarming lunch, prepared in-house, during which the visitors and members of the Imam Al-Khoei community engaged in thoughtful dialogue. Topics ranged from the challenges of balancing secular and religious education to the pivotal role of family life within faith-based communities. Discussions also touched on the shared struggles of supporting youth in maintaining their religious identities amidst the pressures of modern life. These conversations revealed striking commonalities between the Anabaptist and Muslim communities, further solidifying the connection between the two faiths.
This interfaith visit was a powerful reminder of the significance of open-hearted dialogue and the importance of extending hospitality in building bridges across cultures and faiths. It provided both communities with the opportunity to enrich their understanding of one another, reinforcing the shared values of respect, compassion, and unity.
We are thankful to Bethel Fellowship for their visit and to the Ministry Training Center in New York City for organizing such a meaningful program. This visit has reinforced the power of dialogue in nurturing understanding and respect across faiths.
