Community Corner
Ramadan 2013: Enjoy 'Fast-Breaking Meal' at Burnsville Mosque Open House
Burnsville Mosque will offer a traditional Ramadan Iftar to the public later in July.
The Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC) has announced the schedule of open houses at mosques throughout the Twin Cities metro area during Ramadan.
Muslims neither eat nor drink during Ramadan, which occurs this year July 9 through Aug. 7. At sundown, participants break the fast.
“The fast is performed to learn discipline, self-restraint and generosity. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the “five pillars” of Islam,” according to the MCC in a news release.
The open houses will allow non-Muslims the opportunity to participate in “a traditional Ramadan Iftar, or fast-breaking meal.”
Taking Heart, in partnership with the Muslim American Society of Minnesota, has organized the open houses for the third time. It has grown each year. Last year over 350 people attended a meal and 10 mosques participated, said Taking Heart Director Gail Anderson. This year at least 12 mosques will participate.
Taking Heart’s mission, said Anderson, is “to bring Muslims and non-Muslims together for food and conversation, so neighbors can get to know neighbors.”
She continued, ”When you sit down and have a meal with somebody and share food and conversation, you realize you have many more similarities.”
Burnsville Mosque is offering Iftar to the public on Wednesday, July 24 at 8 p.m. It is located at 1351 Riverwood Drive.
The open houses are free and anyone can attend, but the MCC strongly suggests registration. To register and for more information, including a list of other open house locations, visit the MCC website.
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