Unity Through Iftar: An Evening of Faith and Fellowship at BGU

On the evening of 27th March, the Dialogue Society, in collaboration with The Centre for Reconciliation (TCfR) and Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), hosted a heartwarming Unity Ramadan Dinner (Iftar). The event brought together around 60 guests from various faiths, communities, and civic groups to share in the spirit of Ramadan and celebrate unity in diversity. 

The Iftar meal was held at BGU and welcomed notable attendees, including Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman, TCfR Board Member; the Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Alan Briggs; the Sheriff of Lincoln, Councillor Brian Harding; and former Mayors Councillors Chris Burke and Jackie Kirk. Also present was Stephen Griffiths MBE, representing the Lincoln Jewish Minyan Community.

Hilal Ozdemir, the lead organiser from the Dialogue Society, reflected on the success of the evening:“We had an amazing Ramadan Dinner — from the delicious food to the beautifully decorated venue, and most importantly, the joy of bringing together people from across Lincoln. It was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen community bonds.”

The evening included reflections on unity and mutual respect. Councillor Chris Burke praised the growing closeness between communities, saying it was “great that we are coming closer with our Muslim brothers and sisters.”

Mayor Alan Briggs expressed his appreciation for the invitation, sharing his own experience working with diverse communities around the world. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect and active listening:

“God gave us one mouth but two ears — we should listen twice as much as we speak.” 

The Iftar dinner was a powerful reminder of the strength found in diversity and the shared values that unite us all.