USA: Maryland Christians and Muslims weigh in on #Muslims4Lent campaign

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“I think it’s a great idea. I think that the people who would be doing that are showing a much more ecumenical approach to what’s going on in the world right now then what we typically see.”

Ahmadiyya Times | News Watch | US Desk
Source/Credit: WBAR Baltimoew ABC 2
By Catherine Hawley | February 18, 2015

BALTIMORE - Last year’s palms are this year's ashes.  For believers, Ash Wednesday is the start of 40 days leading to Easter.  It's a time for Christians to reflect on Jesus Christ.

"Turn around and to come closer to God,” said Jan Hamill with the Church of The Holy Comforter .  “And to find out once again who Jesus is for us."

"One of the things we do in Lent is to try and get in touch again,” John Simkins said.

Christians around the world mark the season by fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline.

"I have decided for these 40 days I am going to give up my personal email," said Abdul Latif Bennett.

The thing is, Bennett is Muslim.

He's taking part in a solidarity campaign that's been spreading through social media using the hashtag #Muslims4Lent.   And he's not the only non-Christian taking part.

"I drink tea every day, it's part of my normal routine, so I'm going to give it up for 40 days," Ali Kahlon said.

"Listening to the radio, throwing on CDs here and there of different artists, I have done this for Ramadan and now I will do this for Lent," said Mansoor Shams.

The movement encourages Muslims across the country to give something up or do something extra for Lent.  The goal is to bridge the gap of interfaith understanding, spread love instead of hate, and create an opportunity for dialog.  Muslims are encouraged to post on Facebook and Twitter using the hashtag #Muslims4Lent and stating what they will be giving up for the Lenten season.

Members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community , a group that represents Muslims in Baltimore, just learned about the mission, but were quick to join in.

"When you join forces with people of other faiths for a good cause, any good cause, I think the reward and benefits are unseen,” Bennett said.        

 “I think we're less divided then what it seems,” said Shams.  “We're actually more united and I think this act completely proves that."

It's something local Christians complete agree with.

“I think it’s a great idea,” said Simkins.  “I think that the people who would be doing that are showing a much more ecumenical approach to what’s going on in the world right now then what we typically see.”

“If people just stop and listen to each other I think that goes a long way in helping to understand both how we are the same, but also how we’re different and I think both things are really important,” Hamill said.







Read original post here: Maryland Christians and Muslims weigh in on #Muslims4Lent campaign


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