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Calling for Tolerance and Interfaith Unity |
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Before the arrival of the Imam, the Christian-Jewish-Muslim dialogue was virtually dormant in Northern New Jersey. Now it is a robust and flourishing relationship which encompasses clergy members across the spectrum. Imam Qatanani has been a leading figure in the following events:
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• "First Annual American Clergy Leadership Conference" in 2004
• “Inauguration of the Bishop of the Episcopalian Diocese” in Newark
• Numerous interfaith Christian-Muslim-Jewish dialogues.
• Hosted numerous in-house interfaith dialogues with prominent Christian and Jewish clergy.
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“Fostering dialogue, understanding and trust between Muslims, Christians and Jews is critical for our nation and the world. In this cause here in New Jersey Dr. Mohamad Qatanani, the Imam of the Islamic Center of Passaic County, has been a tireless champion. Now our federal government is seeking to deport him along with his wife and six children. With the billions our government spends now on homeland security, how could they get it so wrong?”
Father Bill Potter,
Priest of St. Luke Episcopalian Church Hope, NJ.
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In fact it was these strong relationships that helped these communities comfort each other post September 11. The Imam was of the first Muslim leaders to condemn the attacks specifically and all violence against humanity generally. He welcomed FBI officials, inviting them to the center to open channels of communication and tolerance. His efforts were recognized on a state wide basis and he made history when he was called to open the NJ Senate with a recitation and prayer for peace and humanity.
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