The legacy of Imam Moussa Al-Sadr, a leading Shi’a Muslim figure in southern Lebanon during the 1960s and 1970s who disappeared in 1978 in Libya, has grown to hold special significance in the U.S. not only to Lebanese Americans, but to interfaith advocates of many faiths.

A commemoration of the 30th anniversary of his disappearance is set for Sept. 6 at the Islamic Center of America, 19500 Ford Road in Dearborn, at 5 p.m.

Al-Sadr was known for fighting for the rights of the disadvantaged and for founding social institutions, vocational schools, kindergartens, health clinics and literacy centers. He was also known for heading political groups and advocating for peace during the Lebanese Civil War.

But another element of his history that continues to strike a chord with many is his known dedication to interfaith efforts.

A story frequently told about the imam involves an ice cream shop in the city of Tyre owned by a Christian man. Muslims in the city began boycotting the shop because of the owner’s faith in the midst of sectarian tensions. The owner complained to Al-Sadr and the next Friday, after prayer services at the imam’s mosque, he led his congregation on a walk. A crowd of people followed their religious leader without knowing where they were going.

Al-Sadr stopped at the Christian man’s shop and bought an ice cream cone. Each member of the crowd did the same.

“He didn’t even have to say anything,” said Sayed Hamid Al-Sadr, the imam’s son, who lives in the Detroit area.

He said the simple act was a symbol of tolerance and love for fellow man that transcended religious and political tensions.

Imam Moussa Al-Sadr was never heard from again after disappearing along with two companions in Libya while on a journey to Middle East capitals in which he was seeking help to end Lebanon’s civil war.

The Sept. 6 commemoration will be free and open to the public.