Abrahamic Reunion Israeli Programs Director, Abd Manasra, blessed the Lake Worth Beach, FL interfaith community with his participation in two inspiring programs. Abd is also the Interreligious Lecturer for Rising Tide International.
On Wednesday evening, October 24, Lake Worth Interfaith Network (LWIN) held its second annual Interfaith Sukkot Dinner. A sukkah, a traditional, temporary hut, was built in the yard of St. Andrews Episcopal Church, a Jewish festival held at a Christian church in the true spirit of interfaith. A potluck dinner was held with about 55 present including a large group of Haitian youth. Over half of the attendees indicated that this gathering was their first time celebrating Sukkot, the Festival of Booth. Appropriately, Shehecheyanu was recited, the Jewish prayer that marks firsts.
The program featured music, readings and comments from faith leaders in Lake Worth including not just Jews and Christians, but also Bahá’í, Hindu, Muslim, Wisdom Tradition speakers. Abd graced those in attendance by his comments on the value of interfaith gatherings and with Oud music.
On Thursday morning, Abd was the principal guest at Tea on the Terrace, where he told stories and answered questions about his work with the Abrahamic Reunion in the Holy Land. A diverse group, 11 present, including a Native American activitist, and a sitting Lake Worth Commission member. There was considerable interest expressed in attending future AR meetings on zoom and in person.
LWIN would like to express its deep appreciation to Abd for making the long drive 4-hour from Sarasota and sharing his wisdom and music with the people of Lake Worth Beach.
Writeup by AR Board Member and LWIN member Ted Brownstein, pictured here addressing the event from the Sukkot booth.
