Affinity Intercultural Foundation has proudly sponsored, provided resources and assisted in the organisation of a “Friendship & Dialogue Dinner” staged by Auburn Gallipoli Mosque coinciding in the Islamic month of Ramadan (the month of fasting). About 150 guests comprising of teachers, principles, academics, Church leaders from a number of Parishes of diverse Christian denominations along with the Muslim community got together to enjoy an atmosphere of dialogue. The focus of the evening was to acknowledge the contributions of Auburn Gallipoli Mosque, the visitor services team and the audience who has been a key partner in the development of social and religious harmony in Sydney. The dinner also allowed a warm interaction between people of diverse religious and cultural background.

 

The evening started with a short recitation from the Holy Qur’an (Chapter Mary), followed by adhan signifying the break of fast. Following dinner Mr Mehmet Saral (secretary of Affinity Intercultural Foundation) presented a short talk about the meaning, spiritual and social aspects of fasting in Ramadan. Four other speakers followed Mr Saral – Sr Pauline Rae from the Columban Centre for Christian Muslim Relations, who has been very active in the area of interfaith dialog; Chris Hartney Chairman of Religion, Education Outreach, Department of Studies in Religion, University of Sydney, who has been instrumental in encouraging religious harmony by organising cultural and religious tours; Fr James Murray SSC the Religious Affairs Editor of The Australian newspaper, who has provided accurate and objective information in the media; and Mr Mehmet Ozalp – Manager of Visitor Services, Auburn Gallipoli Mosque and President of Affinity Intercultural Foundation. The evening concluded with socialising to the background of instrumental music.