Interfaith Friendship Remains Strong Despite Gaza Fighting

January 15, 2009

Author: Kim Zarzour

Source: York Region News

http://www.georginaadvocate.com/News/Thornhill/article/86787

Now, more than ever, is the time for Muslims and Jews in Thornhill to hold firm on their resolve to work together, say the organizers of an interfaith friendship project between a temple and mosque.

Members of the Ja’ffari Islamic Centre and Temple Har Zion have a long-standing tradition of co-operation, beginning with a shared parking lot on Bayview Avenue.

Several weeks ago, the two congregations took part in an international “twinning” event.

On Christmas Eve, volunteers from the two groups provided parking assistance to a local United Church, with more such cooperative ventures planned.

Troubles have flared in the Middle East since then, but the co-chairpersons of the twinning project say the desire for that interfaith bond is stronger than ever.

“We have to continue and remain focused on our mandate ... especially in times of turmoil such as we are currently experiencing in the Middle East,” said the Islamic Centre’s Sabi Ahsan and the Temple’s Ronald Smith in a joint statement released yesterday.