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Night of Light and Unity

On the sacred evening of March 25, 2025, as hearts softened and prayers ascended to the heavens during the final nights of Ramadan, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) graciously hosted a spiritually profound and deeply inclusive Laylat al-Qadr program. This was not only a gathering of faith, but a celebration of shared humanity, transcending backgrounds, beliefs, and languages.

The evening was a heartfelt manifestation of the Hizmet Movement’s core values: service, dialogue, education, and peaceful coexistence. In a world too often divided by fear and misunderstanding, Las Vegas became a beacon of hope, sending forth a message of brotherhood, compassion, and unity to the world.

“Love and tolerance are the most essential elements of a better world,” reminds Hocaefendi Fethullah Gülen, and this night echoed his words in every corner.

Distinguished guests from diverse faiths, cultures, and civic institutions gathered under one roof, unified by their respect for this holy night and their shared commitment to building bridges of understanding. It was a night that reminded all present that dialogue is not a luxury, but a necessity in today’s world.

Captain Dave Sims of LVMPD added to the heartfelt acknowledgments by extending thanks to  executive members of Silver Sage.

“Hearts open when hands join,” said one guest, “and tonight, Las Vegas held hands in harmony.”

The guests enjoyed a c traditional Turkish cuisine, lovingly prepared and shared as a gesture of hospitality. After dessert, many were introduced for the first time to the rich aromas and cultural warmth of authentic Turkish coffee—a symbol of slow conversation and lasting connection. What began as a meal became a shared experience of new friendships, heartfelt conversations, and the gentle unfolding of interfaith solidarity.

“If hearts can meet, differences can disappear,” Hocaefendi reminds us. And indeed, on this night, differences melted away into mutual respect and admiration.

We extend our deepest thanks to every volunteer, organizer, sponsor, and community partner who contributed to this sacred evening. Your devotion reflects the spirit of selfless service for the betterment of all. Let this night be a seed, planted in the soil of our hearts, blooming into ongoing dialogue, cooperation, and peace.

May this blessed night continue to shine in our memories and inspire us to build a world where compassion is the common language, and service to others is the noblest expression of faith.

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Intercultural Dialogue of Silver Sage Foundation Hosts Inspiring Annual Iftar Dinner

Las Vegas, NV – March 21, 2025

On a beautiful evening filled with warmth and togetherness, Intercultural Dialog hosted its much-anticipated Annual Iftar Dinner, bringing together a diverse gathering of faith leaders, community members, and distinguished guests. The event served as a powerful testament to the values of dialogue, understanding, and building bridges across cultures and beliefs.

An Evening of Gratitude and Togetherness

The night began with heartfelt appreciation for the incredible volunteers who worked tirelessly to prepare the evening’s meal while fasting—a true act of generosity and devotion. Special thanks were also extended to the dedicated community members who decorated the venue and ensured that every detail of the event reflected the spirit of hospitality.

A particularly spiritual and moving moment came when an executive member of Silver Sage Intercultural Dialogue, beautifully recited the Adhan (call to prayer), marking the time to break the fast. As the call to prayer marked the moment to break the fast, attendees shared a delicious meal, symbolizing the essence of Ramadan—gratitude, patience, and selfless giving.

Inspiring Keynote & Meaningful Conversations

The evening featured a thought-provoking keynote address by Professor David Fott, who shared insights on the power of human connection and the role of interfaith dialogue in fostering peace. His words resonated deeply, reminding us that “understanding begins with conversation, and peace begins with listening.”

As the evening ended, final remarks from Dr. Christie Batson, Ms. Allyson Egbert, and Mr. Anar Mehraliyev all, in an unplanned yet deeply moving way, centered on the importance of rebuilding neighborly relationships. Dr. Batson fondly recalled how, in her childhood, her mother would send her to a neighbor’s house to borrow sugar or salt—an experience that today feels almost lost. Ms. Allyson emphasized the simple yet powerful act of knocking on a neighbor’s door, highlighting how small gestures can create lasting friendships. Anar Mehraliyev, in his closing remarks, shared a deeply moving true story from the Hizmet Movement, about a teacher who persisted in building bridges in a divided community.

At first, neighbors of different faiths kept their distance, hesitant and even unwilling to engage. But the teacher never gave up. He continued knocking on doors, reaching out, and slowly, hearts and minds began to change. One day, a local priest told him, “We were taught all our lives to stay away from each other. But now, I see that there is no difference between us.”

A Night to Remember

The Annual Iftar Dinner was not just an event, it was an experience of love, unity, and mutual respect. It reinforced the belief that through shared meals, open conversations, and genuine compassion, we build bridges that strengthen our communities.

As the night drew to a close, one sentiment remained:

“Keep knocking. Keep connecting. Because behind every door is the possibility of a new friendship.”

 May the spirit of Ramadan continue to inspire us all throughout the year!

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Cooking Club Iftar Program

During the blessed month of Ramadan, the spirit of togetherness and sharing was alive and well in our Cooking Club. Even with the special season of fasting, our members didn’t miss a chance to come together and celebrate the joy of community, food, and friendship.

We were fortunate to have one of our members open their home, creating the perfect space for our Iftar dinner. The evening was filled with laughter, love, and of course, a delicious spread of dishes that showcased the talents and culinary creativity of our club members.

We are grateful for the love and warmth our members bring to every event. As we continue our cooking adventures, moments like this are a true testament to the bonds we’ve built within the Cooking Club.

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Iftar Dinner with Epiphany Episcopal Church

The Intercultural Dialogue Team recently had the honor of collaborating with Epiphany Episcopal Church to host a beautiful and meaningful Iftar Dinner. This event brought together members of both our communities, offering a chance to break bread, share stories, and reflect on the values that unite us.

With our close friends from Epiphany in attendance, the evening was filled with warmth and gratitude. As we gathered to celebrate this special occasion, we not only enjoyed a delicious meal but also engaged in thoughtful discussions, focusing on the commonalities that bind us together despite our differences.

What made the evening even more special was the heartfelt gratitude shared by our friends from Epiphany. Several of our guests took the time to write letters expressing their thanks and the deep sense of friendship they felt, reminding us of the power of connection and mutual respect.

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Silver Sage Foundation and Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Partner for a Successful Iftar Dinner

On March 8, the Silver Sage Foundation and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints came together to host a heartwarming and impactful Iftar Dinner event, marking a wonderful collaboration between two organizations committed to serving and uplifting our community. The event was a shining example of what can be achieved when different groups unite in a spirit of faith, love, and service.

The Iftar Dinner was more than just a meal—it was a celebration of community, shared values, and the power of coming together for a common cause. The evening brought together individuals from all walks of life to enjoy a delicious dinner, build meaningful connections, and engage in conversations centered around faith, compassion, and service.

We want to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended, volunteered, and supported this event. Your presence and contributions made a significant impact, and we are deeply thankful for your commitment to service and community. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for hosting us and for being such a positive force in our shared mission to serve others.

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Iftar Dinner At Methodist Church

What an incredible evening at the Silver Sage Foundation’s Iftar program hosted at the Methodist Church in Boulder City!  It was heartwarming to see our community come together to break fast and share in the spirit of Ramadan. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, compassion, and unity to celebrate this special occasion.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a memorable evening of unity and fellowship at the United Methodist Church on April 7, 2024. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Kimber and Jane Sharp for graciously hosting this special event, in collaboration with the Silver Sage Foundation.

From the moment the doors opened at 6:00 pm, guests were met with warmth and hospitality. The air was filled with background music, setting a serene atmosphere as attendees registered and found their seats. Our MC, Seniha, welcomed everyone with heartfelt words, marking the beginning of our Annual Ramadan Interfaith Iftar Dinner.

The program unfolds with grace and inclusivity as Francyl Gawryn takes the stage to deliver an inspiring welcome speech. Joined by esteemed guests such as Marvin Gawryn, Executive Director of the Interfaith Council of Southern Nevada, and Gard James, Director of the Nevada Interfaith Council, the atmosphere is rich with wisdom and camaraderie. Their uplifting words and reflections on the significance of Ramadan resonate deeply with the audience.

The evening continued with music by Francyl and a heartwarming presentation on Ramadan by Mukaddes. Guests were encouraged to engage, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of this sacred tradition. Closing remarks and prayers offered by community and church members brought the evening to a poignant conclusion, fostering a sense of gratitude and spiritual reflection.

As we bid farewell, Mrs.Gloria  Borad of the Cahir United methodist church and guests expressed heartfelt appreciation to all attendees. This lovely Ramadan dinner at the United Methodist Church embodied the spirit of unity, compassion, and interfaith harmony, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Photo Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/r3aFz6CuVSQk3EUm8

#CommunityUnity #RamadanReflections #SilverSageIftar

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Interfaith Collaboration Iftar Dinner 2024

We’re thrilled to share a heartwarming moment of unity and inclusivity! Volunteers from the Silver Sage Foundation Reno teamed up with the Methodist Church to organize a beautiful Ramadan Iftar Dinner program. This event, dedicated to breaking fast, brought together people from various backgrounds to share in fasting, prayer, and reflection.

Huge thanks to the Methodist Church for their warm hospitality and collaboration in hosting this event. We’re also immensely grateful to the Interfaith Council Members, Northern Nevada Muslim community board members, and the dedicated volunteers from the Silver Sage Foundation for their active participation and support.

Let’s continue to foster connections and understanding within our community! #Unity #Inclusivity #RamadanSpirit

Photo Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/3Zqxfdn5ox4Z1gqn6

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Annual Power of Night Iftar Dinner 2024

What an extraordinary evening of unity and understanding! On the auspicious 27th night of Ramadan, known as Laylat Al-Qadr, or the Power of Night, we had the privilege of co-hosting a beautiful interfaith iftar dinner alongside the Las Vegas Metro Police Department and ARY Foundation. Over 300 individuals from diverse faiths and backgrounds came together to break fast and share in the essence of Ramadan.

This Power of Night iftar was more than just a meal; it was a convergence of hearts and minds. Graciously hosted by the LVMPD, the dedicated volunteers of Silver Sage Foundation worked tirelessly to create an inviting space and prepare a feast befitting the occasion. From heartfelt conversations to shared laughter over delectable food, the evening was truly remarkable.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from Dave Sims, Captain of the Office of Community Engagement (OCE), expressing gratitude to all attendees and acknowledging the invaluable contribution of Silver Sage Foundation. Mujahid Ramadan, President of the LVMPD Multicultural Committee, illuminated the significance of Laylat Al-Qadr, enriching our comprehension of this sacred night. Mr. Galvyn, Executive Director of the Interfaith Council of Southern Nevada, Mr. Rokai Yusufzai, founder of ARY Foundation, Dr. Asim Cengiz, Outreach Director of Silver Sage Foundation, and Mr. Bekir Erdag, Executive Director of Silver Sage Foundation, extended a warm welcome to all participants. We extend our gratitude to Kevin McMahill, Sheriff of LVMPD, for hosting us at the Police Headquarters. At the start of the program, Mr. Erdag presented a gift to Sheriff McMahill and Captain Sims: a portrait with their names calligraphed.

Following a brief video about Ramadan, as the sun set, attendees gathered to experience the beautiful call to prayer, signaling the breaking of the fast. With hearts brimming with gratitude, we sat down together to savor a delightful dinner. After the maghrib prayer that was led by Imam Wahed from Mesjid Ibraheem, participants continued to engage in conversation and share their thoughts.

We firmly believe that events like these are crucial for fostering mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation among individuals from all walks of life. Our hope is that the connections forged and dialogues initiated during this event will continue to resonate, fostering a more inclusive and unified community. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, and to the volunteers whose unwavering dedication made this evening possible.

Special thanks to the SSF volunteers and Istanbul Mediterranean Restaurant for the exquisite cuisine. Together, we are constructing bridges of understanding and goodwill that transcend boundaries. Ramadan Kareem!
#UnityInDiversity #Dialogue #InterfaithIftar #IntrafaithIftar #community #ramadanblessings #RamadanKareem #RamadanMubarak

Photo Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/egq2FanuvFTmZVNZ6

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Our Inaugural Annual Iftar Dinner

Tonight marked a historic moment as the Silver Sage Foundation and the Interfaith Council of Southern Nevada came together to host our very first Annual Iftar Dinner. With hearts full of hope and unity, we embarked on this journey to foster understanding, camaraderie, and a sense of togetherness within our diverse community.

The evening was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including representatives from various government agencies such as Dave Sims, Captain of the Office of Community Engagement, Dan Stewart, Henderson Councilman, Carrie Cox, Henderson Councilwoman, Mujahid Ramadan, President of the LVMPD Multicultural Committee, and many more. Their presence underscored the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in building a stronger, more cohesive society.

Kicking off the program, Dr. Cengiz, Outreach Director of the Silver Sage Foundation, and Mr. Galvyn, Executive Director of the Interfaith Council of Southern Nevada, extended a warm welcome to all attendees, setting the tone for an evening of fellowship and enlightenment.

The highlight of the night came with the inspiring keynote speeches delivered by Allyson and Martin, which resonated deeply with everyone present, reaffirming the values of compassion, understanding, and unity that lie at the core of our shared humanity.

As the aroma of delectable dishes filled the air, participants gathered around tables to enjoy a sumptuous meal, sharing not only food but also stories, laughter, and cherished moments of connection. It was a true feast for the senses and the soul.

In the spirit of reflection and gratitude, attendees took the opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences, further deepening the bonds of friendship and solidarity that were forged throughout the evening.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the dedicated volunteers whose tireless efforts made this event possible. From preparing mouthwatering meals to ensuring every detail was perfect.

To all who joined us tonight, your presence illuminated our gathering and enriched the experience for us all. As we look ahead, we are filled with anticipation for future events where we can continue to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the rich tapestry of diversity that makes our community so vibrant.

Until we meet again next year, let us carry the spirit of unity and compassion in our hearts. Thank you for being a part of this remarkable journey. We can’t wait to see you again soon!  Ramadan Mubarak!

 #RamadanMubarak #RamadanKareem #Interfaith 

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Iftar Dinner At Epiphany Episcopal Church

Gratitude fills our hearts as we extend our deepest appreciation to our dear friends at Epiphany Episcopal Church for graciously opening their doors to host our Iftar Dinner.

Together, our dedicated volunteers meticulously prepared a feast, while the warm embrace of Epiphany Episcopal Church provided the perfect setting for us to gather and break our fasts. The evening was adorned with delightful meals and enriching conversations, fostering connections that transcend faith boundaries.

In a beautiful display of unity, one of our volunteers called the azan, marking the commencement of breaking fast to share the meal and igniting meaningful discussions among participants. We express our sincere gratitude to our devoted volunteers whose culinary skills made the evening truly special.

As we embrace the spirit of Ramadan, we extend heartfelt wishes to you and your loved ones. May this blessed month be filled with abundant joy and blessings!

#Ramadan #RamadanMubarak #Iftar #IftarBreakingDinner

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