Rabbi offers guided tour of Muslim exhibits

As part of the 4th Annual Canadian Islamic Cultural Expo, Vancouver’s Ahavat Olam Synagogue is hosting a special, guided presentation featuring the exhibits of 20 Muslim countries, at the Georgia Plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery, July 26 at 4 p.m.

The Islamic Expo is a unique opportunity to explore and celebrate the diversity of Islam and includes international exhibits, live performances and great food. Everyone is welcome and admission is free.

Rabbi David Mivasair, of the Ahavat Olam Synagogue, said of last year’s CICE: "It was amazing! There were fascinating booths from Muslim communities from around the world, including Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, India, Tunisia, China, Palestine, Eritea. I learned so much.

"But I learned the most from some unexpected countries. The Fiji exhibit was really interesting because so many of the Muslims I have come to know in our area hail from Fiji.

"Most amazing for me personally was the exhibit from China. There are more Muslims in China than there are Jews in the entire world by many times over. I had a fascinating conversation with Mr. Ibrahim Ma, an ethnic Chinese man whose family has been Muslim for generations and generations.

Mivasair said an important part of the Jewish faith and practice is to explore God’s presence in the world through the faiths of others.

"On Sabbath, we devote ourselves to the spiritual practice in making peace and learning about our religious neighbours, and the CICE is a great opportunity to put it to practice," said Mivasair, a Vancouver-based rabbi recognized for his compassionate teachings and progressive views, as well as his efforts in support of peace in the Middle East by calling upon both Israelis and Palestinians to work towards a resolution.

The Ahavat Olam Synagogue regularly sponsors events involving intercultural contact and dialogue, to improve contact and understanding between people.

To be part of the guided tour call 604.875.0240 or e-mail [email protected].