Common Word Community Service Gilroy II 2016

GILROY, California — On Sunday, September 4, 2016, thirty Christians and Muslims united to serve 120 meals to the homeless and hungry at St. Joseph’s Family Center. Yasmine Daneshvar of South Valley Islamic Community and Annah Liyah Cardoza of Lincoln Glen Church helped lead orientation with Mr. Aziz Baameur and Rev. Larry Albright. Volunteers enjoyed conversation after breaking into buddy groups, then prepared a halal meal together. To the delight of all present, Mr. Mohammed Idris Husain barbecued his renown chicken again, assisted by his grandson Zayd Hussain. When asked repeatedly about their secret marinade recipe, both remained silent with smiles. Pastor Albright offered a prayer of thanksgiving before guests enjoyed the meal. Afterward, volunteers also dined, then enjoyed cake to celebrate the birthday of Noah Cardoza and acceptance of Yasmine Daneshvar into University of California, Davis. Sister Sarah Sherfy offered a closing prayer after the festivities, thanking God for the wonderful unity all experienced while serving our neighbors in need.

Photos courtesy of Nathan Flohr and Aziz Baameur. Image curator: Nathan Flohr.