CIOGC Interfaith Iftar

CIOGC Hosts Cardinal George at Annual Inter-Faith Iftar

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Francis Cardinal George, Archbishop of Chicago, was the guest of honor at the Council’s 7th Annual Iftar, co-hosted by the Islamic Cultural Center in Northbrook. Guests and dignitaries included the CIOGC's respected leaders and partners from Chicago's religious communities and the Consulate Generals from Egypt, Jordan and Indonesia.

 During his welcome remarks Council vice-chairman, Dr. Esmail Koushanpour, jokingly chided the Cardinal for returning to the ICC after a gap of six years.  In his address, the Cardinal poignantly remarked that although we come together as people of faith, we seek God along our different paths. He urged strong and persistent dialogue between Muslims and Christians in overcoming hostility and indifference. He further remarked that we work collectively since “Human interdependence is a gift of the Creator.” Prof. Inamul Haque spoke from the Muslim perspective and addressed how prophets are a mercy from Allah to aid man in shaping his conscience. The evening concluded with a passionate plea by Council Chairman, Kareem Irfan, for attendees to become Ambassadors of interfaith goodwill and commit to translating  the solidarity prevalent at such events into concrete collaborative efforts amongst our interfaith communities.