Annual Community Iftar

by Connie Martin

The Mosque Foundation held its Annual Community Iftar on August 9, 2011 at Paradise Banquet.  Guests from various faith communities, local governments, educational institutions, as well as civil liberties and humanitarian organizations were in attendance.  Dr. Rita George Tvrtkovic, Assistant Professor of Theology at Benedictine University was the evening's keynote speaker. 

Each year, the Mosque Foundation recognizes individuals for outstanding service in the Muslim community. The Friendship Award was presented to Lawrence Bonito, Deputy Director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights; The Community Service Award was presented to Dr. Talal Sunbulli; and the Courage Award was presented to Sgt. Joseph Hoenselaar of the Bridgeview Police Department.

This year, the attendees also put together a "Peace by Piece" quilt.  Each table wrote inspirational messages or drew illustrations about their interfaith experiences on quilt squares which were assembled at the end of the evening.