May 25, 2016
An annual tradition that began in 1963, this year’s Illinois Governor’s Prayer Breakfast almost did not happen because the “state’s budget impasse made it difficult to find speakers,” according to organizers. Hosted by the Illinois Executive Mansion Association and faith groups, this year’s event was held at the Executive Mansion in Springfield on May 26th drawing over one hundred attendees. CIOGC was among three faith groups invited to deliver readings from their scriptures: Old Testament, New Testament and the Qur’an. CIOGC’s Executive Director, Tabassum Haleem, led prayer on behalf of the Illinois Muslim community. She was received enthusiastically by legislators and other attendees as she initiated dialogue between CIOGC and the Governor’s office.