Updated 9 September 2008

Imam Hasan Centre hosted the “Hills Interfaith Dialogue” discussion on Wednesday the 3rd of September - 2nd Ramadhan. The discussion was on Holy Mary from various religious perspectives. The evening began with namaz, then a shared Iftaar.

Three students from class Nabuwat sang a song in English and Arabic to welcome Ramadhan. Then, Mariam Asar from Class Al Muntazir spoke about why she was named Mariam. The first speaker was Mary Bagaric, a Catholic from St. Michael’s church, who spoke about Holy Mary from a very frank and personal perspective. Syeda Tahira Kharazmi then gave a well-researched speech about the life of Holy Mary, and how the Quran speaks about her, from her birth, to the birth of Jesus. The evening ended with a question and answer session.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of one of Imam Hasan Centre’s Appreciation Medals, which are normally presented in Ramadhan on the celebration night of Imam Hasan’s birthday. A medal was awarded to Bill Colebrook, whose friendship towards Imam Hasan Centre began before it was even built. When the Centre was experiencing problems during its early days, Bill and his friends from St. Madeleine’s Church offered the facilities of their church for their use. Imam Hasan Centre is indeed very grateful to Bill, Father Chris, Pat, and all the parishioners at St. Madeleine’s Church for making the community feel so welcome in Annangrove.

On Saturday 13th September when the Centre celebrates the birthday of Imam Hasan (AS), the two major medals for "Community Service" and "Youth Award" will be presented along with two “Appreciation” medals. The number of medals will be harder to achieve as the organisers are looking for outstanding contributions. In addition, “Sportsman of the Year” and gifts for those who have worked hard will also be presented.

For more information, please visit www.imamhasancentre.com.au