Interfaith connections were strengthened this weekend when members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attended an Ahmadiyya Muslim Iftar experience at the Baitul Muqeet Mosque in Wiri, Auckland on Saturday, 26 May 2018.
The Iftar marks the breaking of the day’s fast for Muslims during Ramadhan. The Iftar experience was held at the mosque as an opportunity to share this sacred time with community and interfaith leaders and representatives.
(Photo: Imam Shafiq Ur Rehman addresses attendees at the Iftar experience at the Baitul Muqeet Mosque in Wiri, Auckland.)
Latter-day Saint Church leader Aaron Wi Repa said of the visit “This is the first time I’ve visited a mosque and participated in an iftar. I have been made to feel very welcome. My understanding and respect for the Ahmadiyya Muslim community has increased. I look forward to continuing our relationship in the future to serve our communities.”
In an interview given at the conclusion of his visit to the mosque. President Wi Repa drew parallels between the Latter-day Saints' doctrine and practice of fasting and the fasting Muslims undertake during Ramadhan.
Another Latter-day Saint, Anna Featherstone, said of her experience, "It has given me a great respect for and understanding of Muslims who honour the true intent of Ramadhan."
(Photo: Henderson Stake Interfaith Specialist Anna Featherstone in conversation with Imam Mustenser Qamar.)
The visit to the mosque was in response to an invitation by Imam Shafiq Ur Rehman. Last February he had attended a Latter-day Saint conference.
Of the visit to the mosque by Aaron and Adele Wi Repa and others from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Imam Shafiq said, “It has been a great privilege for us to have them here.”
Mormons believe that all mankind are sons and daughters of Heavenly parents.
Photos Courtesy of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, NZ.