Attitudes, Respect for Others Themes At Interfaith Lunch

December 18, 2008

Author: Mirko Petricevic

Source: The Record

http://news.therecord.com/News/Local/article/460448

The prayers recited at most banquets where politicians and dignitaries are gathered -- if any prayers are recited at all -- are usually said quickly before food arrives.

Not yesterday during an annual gathering at the Islamic Humanitarian Service office in Kitchener.

As local mayors and MPPs listened, one speaker after another offered a prayer or a Scripture reading.

So many, in fact, that keynote speaker Ontario Lt.-Gov. David Onley quipped that his pen ran dry as he tried to keep count.

But it wasn't the number or duration of the prayers that were notable.

It was the variety.

Yesterday's gathering was held in conjunction with Interfaith Grand River, a group of about two dozen leaders from various faith communities in Kitchener and Waterloo.