IDC brought together state and elected officials, religious leaders, academics and civic leaders to promote tolerance, peace and dialogue on the annual Dialogue and Unity Dinner on Tuesday, September 23, 2008.
It was a unique night since there were many government official attendees as well as the civil leaders. In this night, guests enjoyed the fantastic Turkish food while listening to Sufi Turkish music.
Executive director Levent Koc welcomed the guests.
Levent Koc, Executive Director, IDC
Mr. Fethullah Gulen, IDC’s honorary president, joined the evening with his message, which was read by Dr. Maxine Beach of Drew University.
Mr. Fethullah Gulen’s message
Dr. Maxine Beach
Rev. Bob Morris provided a very helpful insight on the Gulen movement, which forms a basis for IDC's effort to reach all NJ residents regardless of religion, ethnicity, race, color or background. Rev. Bob Morris was introduced by Rabbi Amy Small, Beth Hatikvah, Summit.
Rev. Bob Morris
Rabbi Amy Joy Small
Several dignitaries, including Attorney General Anne Milgram, Asw. Marcia Karrow, Asw. Linda Greenstein, Hudson County Sheriff Juan Perez expressed their impressions, saying how beautiful this night is. All of them in their speeches offered all possible help personally to IDC in its effort on peace and dialogue. Speeches were not only to thank but also to offer help openly which made this dinner more important. It is a big step to have government officials and all civil leaders join their forces on peace and dialogue.
Ms. Anne Milgram
Asw. Marcia Karrow
Asw. Linda Greenstein
Turkish Calligraphist Mr. Aydin Cayir wrote the name of each guest so this dinner was left to be remembered with a personal gift from IDC.
All attendees expressed their deepest appreciations to the organizers of this event for the hard work of IDC to make this event possible with this much response from all over NJ
Sheriff Juan Perez
Fr. Alexander Kile, St. George Greek Orthodox Church and Mehmet Alkurt, IDC Volunteer
Sr. Mary Antonelle Chunka, Sr. Sr. Rose Mary Sauchelli, Felician College
