First United Methodist Church in Pasadena (Photo – Staff).
Many members of the Islamic Center of Southern California reside or work in the Pasadena area, which makes it difficult for them to be present for Friday mid-day prayers at the Center’s location on South Vermont Avenue in Los Angeles.
By Gregory Norton
Dr. Rizwan Bhatti, a member of the Center’s board of directors, shared the challenge in a conversation with a patient in his Pasadena ophthalmology practice. That patient, a member of the city’s First United Methodist Church, became a bridge to a new interfaith venture.
Members of the Islamic Center of Southern California are now using a meeting room at the church for weekly Friday prayers.
Rev. Sandra Olewine, Pastor of First United Methodist Church in Pasadena, said:
With all of the violence and misunderstanding in the world, it is important that we be a part of a better way.
The response to the first prayer time, held on June 2, was overwhelming with nearly 100 in attendance.
Dr. Bhatti said:
It is such a heart-warming experience to be able to see just how big peoples’ hearts really are. This is beyond tolerance to acceptance.
Iftar
Methodists and Muslims will celebrate together on Monday, June 12, 2017 at 7 p.m. by sharing Iftar – a meal that breaks the fast on a day of the season of Ramadan. It is hoped that sharing space will open doors to dialogue, discussion and deeper respect between the two communities. Plans to reach out together in service to the community are also being discussed.
Gregory Norton is the Minister of Music & Communications at First United Methodist Church in Pasadena.
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