WILLIAMSVILLE, NY: On Tuesday, February 11, 2020, Salam Shalom Conversations, our Jewish interfaith collaboration, held an event hosted by Jewish Federation Apartments, Williamsville. Despite a long gap, we got an overwhelming response.

Dr. Yonina Foster started the program with a welcoming Psalm, “Hine ma tov,” ”Behold, how good it is to be together,” followed by a Nasheed, Islamic melodious vocals by amateur reciters Yusuf & Areej Siddiqui. Later Yonina invited Rabbi Ori, for him his 36-year old dream came true, and Imam Khalilullah joined him to introduce themselves.

Then everyone was requested to head towards the Himmel Chapel, located at the back of the building, it was the most exciting part of the whole event in which Rabbi and Imam briefly explained the Jewish and Islamic rituals and practices. It was so gratifying to know about the similarities between the two belief systems. It was indeed a learning experience for all the attendees, who not only took interest quite enthusiastically but also actively participated in the Q/A session.

Later everyone got back to their seats, where the discussion continued about halal and kosher foods.

In the end Mr. Faizan Haq, Founder WNYMuslims was invited to share his thoughts about the event and the community collaboration.

We highly appreciate the community members’ enthusiastic involvement which was quite evident by their active participation throughout the event. Their presence has encouraged us to organize more events in the future. We hope that the individuals, communities, and organizations that want to foster peace and understanding between our communities will join our caravan. We are Looking for partners to help create opportunities for friendship. We hope that we’ll get the same support in the future as well.