On Sunday June 25, 2017, the last day of Ramadan, the communities of Bedford United Church and the Al-Rasoul Islamic Society Mosque hosted an interfaith service to celebrate friendship, embrace Canada’s diversity, and celebrate its 150th birthday.
To a packed house, dressed in red and white, Reverend David Hart and Imam Mohammed Al-Qazwini led a service that underscored the similarities between Muslim and Christian, concluding with the children from both faith communities creating a banner, and lighting a candle of peace.
Following the service, the congregation formed a procession along the Bedford Highway. After dedications from Councilor Tim Outhit, Kelly Regan, the Minister of Community Services, and Geoff Regan, Speaker of the House of Commons, and with help from the Halifax Regional Police – the crowd took over the street, forming a human chain of over 450 people linking the church and the mosque.
Flags waved, ’Oh Canada’ was sung joyfully, and then the entire community proceeded to the Al Rasoul Mosque where they were hosted with delicious food and more celebration.