If you attended our February 21st dedication at Old Poole Place, you heard me say that this is a holy time. This spring, I have been reminded that our various religious ancestors understood that we need regular practices of prayer, fasting, charity and loving each other; to be the people, the community, and the world, God intends us to be.
Happy Easter!
As a western Christian, this past Sunday, we culminated the 40 days of Lent with the celebration of Easter. Our Orthodox Christian friends will have their joyous feast next Sunday on April 12th. In the Christian tradition, this is the holiest time of our year. Lent has been a time of preparation through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. It is often called a penitential season, in which we reflect on the ways in which we have grown away from God and how we return to a closeness with God. And while Christians are saying “Hallelujah” and “He is risen,” many other faith traditions also find this to be a holy time.
Ramadan Mubarak!
On February 17th, our Muslim brothers and sisters began observing the holy month of Ramadan. I was honored to attend an Iftar dinner at the Islamic Center of Cary this year. During this holy time, Muslims fast from sun-up to sundown. At the end of each day, they gather in big groups and small groups to break their fast with a time of gratitude, prayer, and community connection. I was especially moved by a verse in the Qur’an that reflects the value of generosity: ‘The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of God is like a seed of grain that grows seven ears; in every ear is a hundred grains. And God multiplies for whom He wills.’ (Qur’an 2:261) If invited next year, I urge you to run, not walk, to an Iftar. It is beautiful and the food is amazing!
Chag Pesach Sameach!
Not to be outdone, our Jewish brothers and sisters are currently observing Passover. I was so thankful to be invited to the Inter-Community Seder hosted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Raleigh were we focused on the Four Questions (Mah Nishtanah), and were reminded of the Jews’ journey from slavery to freedom, through storytelling, food and fellowship. Also, a few days after the festival of Purim, Beth Meyer Synagogue extended gracious hospitality to the Faith Relations team as we got away from the office to pray and plan about what God has in mind for us during FY27.
Om Namah Shivaya!
On February 15th & 16th, our Hindu brothers and sisters celebrated Maha Shivaratri. This notable festival marks a remembrance of "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Bhagwan Shiva, and chanting prayers, fasting, and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva. Close to this date, I got to do the best part of my job which was to speak with Rajasekhar of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh – a Hindu cultural group that brings together the diverse and vibrant Hindu American society to collectively address its challenges and contribute to the welfare of the world. They practice the fundamental Hindu concept of 'the service to humanity is the service to God.' We spoke about how Hindu community can serve the greater Raleigh community by collaborating with Habitat.
While we may use different words, and have beautifully different practices, I give great thanksgiving that God’s people – regardless of practice and belief – continue to faithfully support Habitat in our mutual mission to ensure that everyone has an affordable home! Happy Spring!