Virtual Interfaith Iftar Events Headline Centennial Celebration
Lawmakers and Faith Leaders Unite Over Power of Prayer
Keeping its tradition, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community held the annual Interfaith Iftar dinners amid the COVID-19 pandemic. On Saturday, May 9th, Centennial Virtual Interfaith Iftar dinners were hosted to commemorate Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s establishment in the US for 100 years. Titled “The Power of Prayer During a Pandemic,” these events brought together representatives from various backgrounds, including members of U.S. Congress, mayors, chiefs of police, academics, community and faith leaders, to discuss the importance of prayer and unity during catastrophes and unrest.
More than 120 public officials in over 25 states, including 14 members of Congress, state and local governments attended these events and shared their sentiments. “While we are all physically separated, unity is the critical need of the hour, which is why we chose to host each of these events across the country on the same day to reflect on the power of prayer during this pandemic,” said Amjad Mahmood Khan, National Director for Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA.
US Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) mentioned that Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s motto ‘Love for All, Hatred for None’, in fact resonates with the very rudimentary belief of human equality, on which our country is built on. He further added that in these trying times, keeping our faith and holding on to our beliefs by bringing people together, is imperative. US Representative Pete King (R-NY) shared his pride in calling members of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as his friends, for he has found them most stalwart in defending United States in the time of dispute between people, religions, countries and ethnic groups. Canton Police Chief Ken Berkowitz of MA acknowledged that in these tough times we find ourselves more spiritually connected than ever before. He concluded by saying, “I know that we’re going to get through this. I know we are going to be a stronger one people, one nation for this. Going through tragedy usually strengthens us, and I hope we will blossom into a better future.”
