Over 60 people from across Calgary gathered at the Tuxedo Community Centre on Friday, September 19th to share a community Ramadan dinner. Traditional fast-breaking dates were followed by a delicious lentil soup and a plate filled with salad, stuffed grape leaves, kofte and rice. Dessert was served with a choice of Turkish coffee or tea. Emcee Murad Ayalp introduced Deputy Mayor Joe Connelly who talked about the cultural diversity of the city as one of its strengths. The President of Burç Intercultural Centre, Erhan Baykotan, spoke of the significance of Ramadan customs to Islamic people. Abdullah Yilmaz received much attention for the calligraphy he made that evening for many of the guests, including Deputy Mayor Joe Connelly.

Thanks to the Istanbul Kebap House for providing the food and to all our volunteers who contributed to the event's success by setting up, serving and cleaning up.

We were privileged to join a Turkish family for iftar- the breaking of a fast during Ramadan.  As we ran from our car through the cold rainy night, we were embraced by a warm room and welcoming people. We did not take part in the fast, but that didn't stop us from enjoying the food immensely.  Beginning with dates, and moving on to yogurt soup, rice, meat and eggplant dishes, and a perogy-like dish each course seemed better than the last.  We ended the meal with Turkish tea and coffee, baklava and a sweet similar to cotton candy. Our one-year old especially loved the dessert! It was very fascinating to learn about our hosts and their friends. They were kind and hospitable and made us feel very welcome despite our ignorance of Turkish culture.  We enjoyed our conversation with them and learned a lot.  Our Turkish hosts were very generous- their love of hosting and love of children was very obvious.  We were very blessed by the experience.

Dan, Saryn, and Taliah Modderman