2023 Inaugural Shabbat Iftar Dinner
On a beautiful evening at the Ark Centre in Hawthorn, the inaugural Shabbat – Iftar dinner was held in Victoria, quite possibly Australia. The event gathered not only Jews and Muslims but prominent political figures including public servants, religious and community leaders who attended the event to support interfaith harmony and understanding.
The event began with Shabbat prayers led by Rabbi Gabi Kaltmann. The service was observed by the guests who followed the prayer service. Immediately following the prayers, the MC Ahmet Keskin welcomed the guests and set the scene about the evening’s formalities. The main event was a panel conversation moderated by Stephen Brook, the deputy editor of The Sunday Age, who introduced the topic for the evening, “Can refraining from bread lead to spiritual growth?”. The discussion was a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of the role that fasting, and in particular, abstaining from bread, can play in spiritual growth. The panel featured some of Australia’s most prominent figures in public service, journalism and academia including Viv Nguyen AM (Chairperson, Victorian Multicultural Commission), Dr Susan Carland (Academic, TV Presenter and Muslim leader), and Mia Gardiner (Journalist, AJN). The panellists shared their identity formation which included the intertwining of their faith and culture; and how their perspectives have been shaped based on their multi-layered identity and lived experience. Of particular note was the optimism they shared about the youth of today and their faith community evolving to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
As the sun began to set, the event moved on to the Islamic component of the program. Abdul Celil Gelim was invited to read a few passages from the Quran in its original Arabic before a translation was read of the verses recited. Right at sunset he made the Call to Prayer which signified the commencement of Shabbat and time when Muslims could break the fast, known as Iftar. It was a poignant moment considering that both faith traditions look at sunset to welcome an important aspect of their ritual to take effect.
All the guests were treated to the Shabbat-Iftar dinner with a delicious Middle Eastern meal that was enjoyed by all. The atmosphere was lively, with guests chatting and sharing stories about their own experiences of faith and culture, respect differences and cherish common ground.
The Shabbat – Iftar dinner together was a significant milestone in promoting interfaith harmony and understanding in Australia. It’s a testament to the power of community and the willingness of people to come together and learn from each other. The event showed we can find common ground and build meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. It was a beautiful and inspiring evening that will be remembered for many years to come.
