Two religious institutions in New York have teamed up to give hundreds of members of the Westbury community a festive mood. In an encouraging example of interfaith compassion, the New York church and mosque joined forces to feed low-income families and offer free health examinations for the holidays.
The Westbury United Methodist Church has partnered with the Long Island Islamic Center to celebrate what unites different religions - love of one's neighbor.
Festive mood
"The fact that we joined our Christian brothers and sisters for Christmas means that we send love and peace - that unites different religions, " said Dr. Isma Chaudhry of the Islamic Center.
Together, the group helped the homeless and the needy by delivering a warm welcome and hot food. In addition to a hot lunch, both organizations conducted a free medical examination.
“Love your neighbor as yourself, that’s what the Lord called for all faiths, ” Rev. Dr. Elon Sylvester of the Westbury United Methodist Church said. “This is the highest ideal we strive for.”
“My faith also teaches me to take care of my neighbors, ” said Imran Pasha from the Long Island Islamic Center. “We can provide the needy with additional medical examination services because there are so many doctors in our community.”
