Almost one year ago, the Belgian-Turkish association Fedactio and members of the liberal Synagogue Beth Hillel agreed to work with Centre Avec to create the “Recipes to live together”, a short guide that provokes reflection based on 12 religious events of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, in a friendly atmosphere with 12 corresponding recipes.

On April 22, 2022, the three associations animated together the breaking of Ramadan fast (“Iftar”). Over fifty people were there, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., respecting a strict schedule (8:53 p.m.) when, when the sun sets, the fast ends and the meal can begin.

A delicious meal which allowed friendly discussions, sometimes very deep, about common spiritual points which bring life. For my part, I have sensed the amar y servir motto, so important to us.

The evening began with a general presentation of the short guide and with details on the meaning of certain religious holidays – Easter, which follows Lent for Christians, Passover and Shabbat for Jews, Ramadan for Muslims. This helped us better understand and appreciate what unites us beyond the differences.

A group of intercultural musicians also delighted the entire audience, to the sound of three very special instruments – the oud (a kind of lute very common in Arab countries, Turkey, Greece and Armenia), the ney (Persian or Turkish flute) and the bendir (Berber drum).

In short, an intercultural evening of encounters, joy and dialogue, thanks to the fact that Easter, Passover and Ramadan occurred almost at the same time this year!

Guy Cossée SJ