Members of the Interfaith Commission Diocese of Parramatta joined Kim Chong (right) from the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations at a fundraiser for the House of Sakinah, a Muslim-led social service in Western Sydney. - Photo: Kim Chong
In a terrific example of interfaith dialogue in action, the members of the Interfaith Commission Diocese of Parramatta joined Kim Chong from the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations in August at a fundraiser for the House of Sakinah, a Muslim-led social service in Western Sydney.
The staff of the House of Sakinah, many of whom are volunteers, work tirelessly to provide crisis accommodation, food packages, school breakfast programs, service referrals and more for women and children fleeing domestic violence and homelessness, no matter their race or religion. House of Sakinah does not receive government funding so hosts an annual event to raise much-needed funds to continue their amazing work.
Kim Chong and Fr Patrick McInerney, the director of the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations, have attended the fundraiser previously. This year, they extended the invitation they received from the House of Sakinah to the members of the Interfaith Commission Diocese of Parramatta, who gladly accepted. In sponsoring its interfaith commission members to attend, the Diocese of Parramatta expressed official support and recognition of the exceptional contribution these Muslim women make to society through their social service. More importantly, a Catholic organisation supporting a Muslim organisation highlights how interfaith relations can bolster outcomes for the common good. As people of faith, we share similar values and a drive for social justice, the outcomes of which are better achieved when we come together.
Kim Chong works at the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations, in Blacktown, NSW.
