Istanbul iftar brings together muslim, jewish and christian clergy

Istanbul's Galata Mevlevihanesi hosted the Beyoglu Municipality's fast-breaking iftar dinner yesterday with the participation of clergymen from the three Abrahamic religions. The iftar, held at sundown during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, started with a whirling dervish show. Speaking to reporters, Istanbul Mufti Mustafa Cagrici said that the values of Ramadan can be shared among all believers. Also attending the dinner, French Consul to Istanbul Herve Magro said that everyone should listen to the messages that Ramadan conveys. "Whatever our faith, it is the duty of everyone to make the world a better, more peaceful place," he added. Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomeos said that fasting, a feature of Ramadan, fulfills its true meaning when complemented by such virtues as living decently, being fair and just, avoiding misconduct and greed, helping the needy, protecting the weak, and spreading happiness and love. Istanbul Chief Rabbi Ishak Haleva said the three Abrahamic religions convey the same message, namely that "we all were brought to this world by the same parents." He also said that unless we treat each other more mercifully during Ramadan, we have no right to seek God's mercy. After extensive restoration, the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum is set to reopen to the public later this year.