Fast Breaking Dinners Columbia 2017
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast by abstaining from consuming water and food while the sun is out. Iftar - or fast breaking - dinners take place each night once the sun sets. This is an important time not only for those who participate in Ramadan because of their faith but also an important time to share this tradition with friends from different backgrounds over delicious food and through lively conversation. It is truly a special time when people of all backgrounds come together and share in the Iftar experience, learning about different cultures and faiths in the process.
Ramadan Presentation and Dinner on June 2nd 2017
The Atlantic Institute and Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia hosted a Ramadan Presentation and dinner on June 2nd 2017 at the Unitarian Universalist Church located at 2701 Heyward Street in Columbia, SC. The even started out with guests filtering in around 7 o’clock. Many guests generously brought homemade entrée’s to be eaten after the presentation. At 7:30 pm the Atlantic Institute’s Dr. Aydin talked about the importance of Ramadan and told of his own experiences of being Muslim in America during the holy month of Ramadan. Afterwards Dr. Aydin answered questions from the audience about Islam and the holy month of Ramadan. After the presentation at 8:30 pm when the sun began to set dinner was served. In the end, it was a fun and educational night for all at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia. Please see the short news click at the image below.
Ramadan Presentation and Dinner on June11th 2017
On Sunday, June 11, 2017 the Columbia Museum of Art and the Atlantic Institute hosted a night of Dinner and Dialogue Understanding Islam at the Museum where about 150 people attended. The discussion started at 7:30pm with Dr. Akif Aydin of the Atlantic Institute, Imam Omar Shaheed from Masjid as-Salaam and Dr. Noah Gardiner, USC assistant professor of religion specializing in Islam. Some of the discussion points that were discussed were: Talk about the pillars of faith in the context of the origins of the religion; I think non-Muslims are often fascinated by the notion of fasting for such a long period, as Muslims do during the month of Ramadan. Can you discuss Ramadan and everything that goes along with it in the context of the faith and what it means to you personally?; Islam has a great deal in common with other religions, and particularly the other Abrahamic religions (Judaism and Christianity). Can you speak to some of the ideas that these three faiths share?; The root word of Islam is peace. How do you think Islam embodies the notion of peace?; How would you say has Islamic culture has changed over the years?; If someone didn’t know anything about Islam what one thing would you want them to know?; and What would you say is the greatest challenge facing Muslims today? After the insightful discussion the group broke fast for dinner and the wonderful food came from Boeshreen, Persis Indian Grill, and Green Olive.
Ramadan Presentation and Dinner on June 20th 2017
On the evening of June 20th, the Atlantic Institute of Columbia hosted the last of their annual Ramadan Iftar-Fast Breaking dinners at the West Columbia center. While the sun was setting, Dr.Akif Aydin spoke to several attendees about the importance of Ramadan in the Islamic religion. As Night fell a delicious, Turkish meal prepared by volunteers was enjoyed by all. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this evening of educational open dialogue. We are grateful for your partnership in striving toward greater understanding together.
