June 21, 2016, Syracuse NY – The Turkish Cultural Center in Syracuse and Interfaith Works hosted a Ramadan Dinner for diverse members of the community with about 110 guests in attendance, including members of the Interfaith Works, Zen Center, Unity Church and other communities.
Dinner started with a short video about Ramadan and a special Turkish meal was served while listening to call to prayer (adhan) followed by a prayer asking to end hunger, wars, and hatred around the world.
Mahmood Burton from Ithaca Muslim community presented on the meaning of Ramadan and how it affects the Muslim community. He said that in the month of Ramadan Muslims through fasting, experience hunger and thirst, and sympathize with those in the world who have little to eat every day. Nowadays people if Africa need not only sympathy, but also actual food by those who experienced hunger. Furthermore, through increased charity, Muslims develop feelings of generosity and goodwill toward others.
Susan Boyle, Syracuse Common Council member gave closing remarks. She said that they are happy to have Turkish Cultural Center at this neighborhood. Rev. Edith Washington-Woods from Unity Church mentioned that they have been waiting for a long time for TCC to move in the new building and they look forward to collaborate in the future.
