Open Mosque Day

Hello Honeybees,

It’s always a good idea to expand your knowledge about things that are different. I’m talking about people, places and things. I’m so glad that I learned to not only seek diversity but to embrace it. I’m also glad that my children are able to do the same.

As part of his Bridge Builder experience my son choose to spend part of a Saturday morning learning about the Muslim faith and I was happy to accompany him. This was the first time that I was able to share his Bridge Builder experience with him.

I am a Christian and have experienced several different forms of religious expression. My first church experience was as a member of the First Corinthian Baptist Church in Chicago, then the Catholic Church which is where I practiced most of my religion, in college I went back to the Baptist church then back to the Catholic Church where I was married. I am now a member of the Disciples of Christ.

Having the chance to visit a Mosque was a learning experience for both of us. On the way home he said it best: we all believe in God but we just express it in different ways. I was so proud that he received that message. Spending the day learning about the Muslim faith, culture and customs was an experience that I will always remember.

Before our tour we put on shoe covers or you had the option to go without shoes

Wearing a Hijab, for modesty, was a new experience

This is where the men wash before prayer, the ladies had a separate area upstairs

Having the chance to ask questions was part of the activities

There was also food and drink. I must say the tea was delicious

This year is the 15^th Annual Muslims in Memphis Celebration. There are planned activities & events all month. To learn more you can visit www.MuslimsInMemphis.org .

I encourage you to get to know your neighbors. We all share this earth together.

Belinda