DEER PARK MOSQUE OPEN DAY

     The AIS in collaboration with the Deer Park Mosque held an Open day on Sunday the 4^th of November to once again give the general public the opportunity to gain an insight into the practices of Islam and particulars of a mosque. The popular program was attended by a diverse crowd of around a hundred guests whom had been introduced to the Australian Intercultural Society by their own communities. Deer Park Mosque President Ibrahim Karamujic praised the good turnout and highly commended the event as “it’s an effective method to break down barriers between individuals from different religions”. Karamujic also believed that it was a great opportunity for the general public to find out what actually happens inside a mosque and to learn more about the Islamic faith.

    The program commenced with the recitation of the Quran by Deer Park Mosque Imam Muhamed Didic. The guests then broke up into smaller groups whereby each group was assigned an Australian Intercultural Society representative who provided information regarding the Mosque and practices of Islam. Guests were also given the opportunity to ask questions. Imam Muhamed Didic believed that such events were very important for the community hence augmented understanding of each other. He added “Living in a democratic society, it’s essential for people to know that Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance. Dialogue is imperative as it increases mutual understanding and respect for each other”

    People listened eagerly as there was a narrated visual demonstration of a prayer by Australian Intercultural Society’s General coordinator Emre Celik and Imam Muhammed Didic. Liv Cameron of Glen Waverley Uniting Church believes such activities are great opportunities to increase understanding of one another and that engaging in dialogue with Muslims would reduce prejudice. Senior Constable John Reader of Victoria Police said “The Mosque open day was a great opportunity to change people’s perspective and an educational opportunity to overcome the ‘fear of the unknown’”. Constable John Reader believes that as a community Australians have to work together to achieve social cohesion and a harmonious society. The program was concluded with the serving of Turkish coffee and sweets as guests got the chance to further socialize with one another.

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