Spiritual leaders and government officials in a group photo at the dinner, July 1

DEARBORN HEIGHTS — The Islamic House of Wisdom held its annual iftar dinner, on Wednesday, July 1. Government officials, community activists and Muslim, Christian and Jewish clergy attended the event.

Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi, the spiritual leader of the House of Wisdom, spoke of the spiritual benefits of fasting during Ramadan, describing Muslims’ resistance to hunger during the holy month as a miracle.

“Piety or spiritual protection is achieved through our internal struggle against our desires and temptations,” Elahi said. “It fosters a security system for our soul against internal diseases like ego, arrogance, jealousy, hypocrisy, greed and selfishness.”

About 300 people attended the dinner.