Peace Talks in Lake Worth, Florida
Sheikh Abd Alsalam Manasra, Israeli Programs Director for the Abrahamic Reunion and Interreligious Dialogue Lecturer of Rising Tides International, visited South Florida to spread the message that peace is possible in the Holy Land.
Temple Adath Or Lag B’Omer Services
On Friday, May 16th, Sheikh Abd and his wife Israa attended Lag B’Omer and Shabbat services at Temple Adath Or in Delray Beach. Speaking to some 40 attendees, he discussed ways to overcome hate and build connections between diverse faith groups. (A video of his comments is available on YouTube on Lake Worth Interfaith Network’s channel.) Specific examples of his role in Abrahamic Reunion programs in the Holy Land include multi-faith Iftaars, text study groups with interfaith clergy, and programs with youth using Peace Literacy Virtual Reality software.
Embracing Peace Day, Lake Worth, FL
The following day, Saturday, May 17th, Lake Worth Interfaith Network held its annual Embracing Peace Day at St. Andrews Episcopal Church. The multifaceted event was “a day-long journey to serenity and peacemaking. Qi Gong, Meditative Music, update on Peacemaking efforts in the Holy Land, TAB Gospel Choir, Multi-cultural and Interfaith presenters, Taize. Sikh Langar (vegetarian lunch).” Sheikh Abd spoke to an audience of 60 at this mini-Parliament of the World’s Religions about his work of building bridges between Jews, Christians, Druze, Samaritans, and Muslims in Israel / Palestine.
Later in the program, Sheikh Abd joined other faith leaders for a panel discussion on the topic Embracing Peace in Challenging Times: Promoting a Culture of Tolerance, Mutual Understanding, and Respect for Diversity. His comments revolved around the power of getting to know the “other” on a personal basis as a prerequisite for productive dialogue.
At several open times during the program, Sheikh Abd also provided meditative music on the Oud for the attendees.
Positive feedback was heard from many attendees who expressed appreciation for Abd’s passion and peacemaking experience. He received several invitations to return to South Florida or to collaborate on future Zoom programs.
Thanks to our partners Rising Tide International, Lake Worth Interfaith Network (LWIN), and Temple Adath Or (TAO) in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
By Ted Brownstein, AR Board of Directors
