ABOUT THE EVENT
A Community Event to bring together Jews, Christians, and community leaders in solidarity to fight hate and celebrate the rich diversity of Peoria’s Muslim residents.
SPEAKERS:
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US Attorney General Jim Lewis, US Department of Justice
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Mayor Jim Ardis, City of Peoria
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Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, 92nd District State Representative
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Rev. Michael Brown, Universalist Unitarian Church of Peoria
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Pastor Jim Powell, Lead Pastor at Richwoods Christian Church
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Rev. Dr. Stephen Whitaker, Pastor Head of Staff, United Presbyterian Church
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Rabbi Daniel Bogard, Congregation Anshai Emeth
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Imam Kamil Mufti, Resident Scholar, Islamic Foundation of Peoria
WHY ARE WE DOING IT?
As a result of Islamophobia, Muslims are sadly viewed with increased suspicion and fear these days and are painted with a broad brush. Mosques, where we pray and socialize, are being incorrectly viewed as unwelcome, closed places.
Our goal is to:
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Fight fear by opening our doors and hearts
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Bring Jews, Christians, Muslims, and other voices together to stand against prevalent Islamophobia (irrational fear of Islam and Muslims)
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Build loving relationships rooted in the genuine traditions of each faith without denying our differences
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Invite the “whole” city so our friends and neighbors can see us, meet with us, and hear community and religious leaders speak
DISCOVER ISLAM
5 Pillars of Islam
Declaration of Faith
The “declaration of faith” is the statement, “La ilaha il-Allah wa Muhammad ar-Rasul-ullah” (“There is no god worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah”). This “declaration of faith” summarizes the Islamic belief in the Oneness of God.
Daily Prayer
The second pillar of Islam is daily prayer. Prayer is a method by which human beings can connect to God and gather strength, guidance, and peace of mind. Muslims perform five formal prayers a day.
Charitable Giving
Muslims recognize that all wealth is a blessing from God, and certain responsibilities are required in return. In Islam, it is the duty of the wealthy to help the poor. Giving in charity is emphasized again and again in the Quran encouraging Muslims to give to the needy and care for orphans.
Fast of Ramadan
Once each year, Muslims are commanded to fast during the daylight hours of an entire month. The period of intense spiritual devotion is known as the fast of Ramadan. The Islamic fast is a complete one, allowing no food, drink, smoking, or sex during the daytime hours of the month. From dawn until sunset, Muslims must practice self-control and focus on prayers and devotion.
Hajj: The Pilgrimage to Mecca
Every Muslim strives to make a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to the sacred sites in Mecca, in present-day Saudi Arabia. This final pillar of Islam is required of every adult Muslim if it is physically and financially possible.
6 Articles of Faith
Belief in One God
“Allah” is simply the Arabic word for God. Arab Christians and Jews use the word “Allah” to refer to God. The One Supreme God who creates and controls the universe.
Belief in Angels
God created unseen beings called angels that work tirelessly to administer God’s kingdom. These spiritual creatures carry out God’s orders in full obedience.
Belief in Prophets of God
God communicates His guidance to mankind through human prophets including Abraham, Jonah, Moses, and Jesus. Each prophet communicated the essential message to worship God.
Belief in Revealed Books of God
God sent human prophets to proclaim His teachings throughout time and to every people by revealing these books: Psalms, Torah, Gospel, and the Quran.
Belief in the Day of Judgment
The life of this world will come to an end on one appointed day when every person will be raised for judgment. God will show mercy and fairness in His judgment.
Belief in Destiny
Everything happens in life according to God’s will. The recognition helps a person through hardships.