In an exemplary model of the UAE’s peace and harmony, Muslims and Christians gathered in Sharjah’s St. Michael Church on Wednesday to share lftar meals.
The church hosted Iftar for 400 Muslim workers who were served food by 200 catholic volunteers of various nationalities. This is the second year for the church to host Iftar for Muslim workers from various labour accommodations.
In a very spiritual moment, Azaan (call for prayer) was given inside the church where all Muslims offered their Maghrib prayers.
The Iftar was attended by Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan bin Khalid Al Qasimi, chairman of government relations of the Sharjah government, other officials and priests of the church.
Catholic priests praised the strategy of the UAE in spreading tolerance and initiating interfaith harmony.
Priest Wissam Al Massa’deh said that it is the duty of the church to host such an Iftar. “This church is situated in the land of giving and goodness. So that is our duty to contribute to that great spirit of tolerance by hosting this Iftar for our Muslim brothers during the holy month of Ramadan. This initiative is in appreciation of the tolerance and brotherhood that prevail in the UAE, a country that respects and appreciate the dignity of humans.”
“We are so happy to welcome our Muslim brethren for Iftar, in a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere where two great faiths come together to share love, brotherhood and forgiveness.”
He said the initiative is also aimed at teaching the new generation to accept others, regardless of their religion, colour, ethnicity or class. “In the light of the current crisis in many countries around the world, we would like to organise more events of this kind to spread the spirit of tolerance, peace and forgiveness.”
He added that the church, with the help of 200 youth volunteers, launched an initiative to distribute Iftar meals to motorists and the needy every day near Sharjah Central Souq. “The Muslim brothers who received the meals were very happy to know that it was an initiative of the Catholic Church.”
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