Change Font Size:   A A A

May 30, 2017 | Jeanie Garrett

St. David’s to Host Iftar Dinner with Muslim Community

Over the next month, hundreds of Christians, Jews, and Muslims will come together to celebrate Ramadan with a series of Iftar dinners planned in the Austin area. Iftar is the meal that breaks the daily fast during Ramadan, and is eaten at sunset.

Hosted by The Dialogue Institute of the Southwest (formerly known as the Institute of Interfaith Dialog), this non-profit organization grew out of the need to address the question, “How can citizens of the world live in peace and harmony?” Its mission is to promote mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation among people of diverse faiths and cultures by creating opportunities for direct communication and meaningful shared experiences.

This is the fourth year St. David’s Episcopal Church will host a dinner.

“Now more than ever these conversations are crucial to our understanding of and accepting of each other’s faith,” said the Rev. Katie Wright, Associate Rector at St. David’s. “Anti-Islam and Muslim rhetoric spiked again this month after the bombing in Manchester, England. It’s disheartening to see that many people still can’t or won’t separate radical acts of terrorism and the Muslim faith. Community dinners like this one are directly aimed at breaking down barriers and stereotypes and truly learning about one another’s religion and beliefs. It’s our honor and duty to be part of that. ”         

From now until the end of June, cathedrals, churches, and synagogues will open their doors for more than 25 Iftar dinners planned in Austin.

Iftar Dinner at St. David’s Episcopal Church

Friday, June 2, 7:30-9 p.m.

The evening will start with a presentation and a group conversation. At sunset we will eat dinner with food provided by the Muslim community.

Free parking in the St. David’s garage.