DEARBORN HEIGHTS – Islamic House of Wisdom held a Unity and Interfaith iftar Saturday, August 20, that attracted more than 300 people and highlighted the spirit of cooperation between the different faiths in the community.

The iftar included local imams, pastors and leaders of religious organizations, U.S. and State House representatives, Lebanese Consular General Houssam Diab, judges, representatives from civic and nonprofit organizations, community leaders, youth groups and a host of local elected officials and distinguished guests.

Islamic House of Wisdom has been a leader in interfaith dialogue and in bringing representatives of various faiths to celebrate the commonality of religions. It also sponsors different youth programs, focusing on tolerance, peace and unity.

“It is am important part of our Islamic belief that we’re connected to the various religions (comprising) the interfaith community,” Dr. Tallal Turfe said, opening the event. 

Father Jeffery Day of the Archdiocese of Detroit congratulated the Muslim community on the holy month of Ramadan and reiterated the importance of dialogue between Christians and Muslims. He thanked Islamic House of Wisdom for facilitating the dialogue. “It’s a blessing,” he said.

Imam Muhammed Ali Elahi thanked participants for attending. 

“Fasting is admired in all Abrahamic religions,” Imam Elahi said. “Fasting is spiritual exercise and to enhance discipline and determination over dangerous human desires and temptation.”

He urged participants to unite against extremism in all faiths because hatred directed toward certain members of the community hurts the entire community. “Ramadan is a good time to reflect on that and help us fight Islamophobia because it is evil,” he said.