St. Ambrose Episcopal Church Hosts Interfaith Iftar, Fostering Unity Amid Global Fears
St. Ambrose Episcopal Church in Claremont, California, hosted an interfaith iftar event on March 23, bringing together around 70 guests from Christian, Muslim, and Jewish backgrounds. The gathering aimed to foster unity, understanding, and a sense of blessing amidst global fears.
The Rev. Jessie Turnier, St. Ambrose's rector, welcomed the diverse crowd, marking the start of the iftar. As is tradition, the meal began with eating dates, followed by a multicultural potluck featuring dishes from various cultures. The event was organized by the Pacifica Institute, a non-profit promoting social justice, intercultural, and interreligious dialogue.
Atilla Kahveci, vice president of the Pacifica Institute, explained the significance of iftar, a communal meal Muslims share during Ramadan after fasting all day. He emphasized the importance of unity and understanding among different religions. Marianne Cordova, an associate minister, echoed this sentiment, finding strength in the gathering.
Tamara, a member of St. Ambrose, felt the event offset global fears and fostered a sense of blessing and unity. Zaw Lin Soe, a newcomer from Myanmar, attended to learn about other religions and build relationships. Moli Torres, a parishioner at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, appreciated the multicultural experience and the shared belief in God's image.
Messiah, a 12-year-old from Hesperia, traveled 45 miles to attend, highlighting the importance of loving God and people. The Rev. Paul Colbert, reminded of his experiences in Sudan and Yemen, emphasized the shared path of seeking the divine.
The interfaith iftar at St. Ambrose brought together people from different faiths, promoting unity, understanding, and shared experiences. The event, organized by the Pacifica Institute, highlighted the importance of dialogue, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution in fostering a more cohesive and compassionate community.
