Westminster Synagogue participted in National Mitzvah Day, on 16th November 2008 with an interfaith project entitled Cooking From the Heart inviting Muslims and Jews to share an evening of cultural activities. It was supported by charities Fertile-Ground, Hafla, Psychosemitic and in cooperation with the Ramadan Festival. 
The event was a magical evening full of heart and soul. A great mix of people and an abundance of food to die for, recipes passed down through the generations of families shared amongst guests in a wonderful evening of food, stories and song. The evening was expertly hosted by comedians Josh Howie and Ayesha Hazarika with their wonderful mix of humour. Genuine connections were made between people who may not have ordinarily met. The atmosphere was buzzing and dynamic and reflected the warmth and generous hospitality so intrinsic to the Muslim, Jewish and Arabic traditions of the Middle East.
Over twenty-five wonderful cooks were at the heart of this event. The time, energy, pride and love they put into their food was second to none and this is what helped to make the evening so special. Guests could not believe their luck – where else in London can you get a delicious three course meal, live music from the Middle East (beautifully performed by Merit Stephanos and Abdul Salaam Kheir and Meg Hamilton and a chance to meet lots of interesting people all for only a £7 donation?
We have had so much positive feedback and many requests for further Cooking From The Heart events. Our next event will be hosted by an Islamic community in 2009/2010.
Other interfaith activites have included Gael Robertson's Breathing Spaces Exhibition and the World Peace Flame.
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