Browse Sections
Interactive
Popular Sections
Mostly cloudyNews
Islam - 'wise and beautiful'
1/12/2002
TONY Blair spoke of the "wisdom and beauty" of Islam in a special message to Muslims in Manchester.
It was read out at the launch of Islam Awareness week at Manchester Town Hall.
The Prime Minister said: "The terrible events of September 11 has made it more vital than ever that ignorance about this great faith is tackled and that an understanding of the true traditions of Islam - its beauty, its wisdom and compassion - is increased among Muslims and non-Muslims alike."
At an opening ceremony balloons were released in Albert Square their colours symbolising Britain's muti-cultured society. The week coincided with the start of Ramadan and its theme was 'Fasting to Remember'. Islamic Society of Britain invited representatives of the Jewish and Christians faiths to the opening ceremony. Guests spoke about Islam, the Muslim community and the importance of Ramadan.
Cheetham councillor Afzal Khan said: "This is a chance for the Muslim community and indeed all the communities of Manchester to remember the less fortunate and raise money for various charities. It is just as important now as it was a year ago following the tragic events of September 11 and its aftermath for all communities to link hands in mutual support and peace."
To celebrate the awareness week and the month of Ramadan sponsored fasts took place at Burnage High School, KD Grammar School for Boys, Stretford High School and Altrincham School for Boys. A fund raising dinner was held at the Sanam Restaurant.
Got an opinion you want to share?| Card | BT Fee |
| Capital One BT Exclusive | 3.0% |
| Virgin Credit Card | 2.98% |
| Barclaycard Platinum 'As on TV' | 2.9% |
| Capital One Platinum | 3.0% |
| Lloyds TSB Platinum MasterCard | 3.0% |
| Company | Typical APR |
| Moneyback Bank | 8.4% |
| Alliance & Leicester | 8.7% |
| Halifax (Semi-exclusive) | 8.8% |
| Bank of Scotland (Semi-exclusive) | 8.8% |
| Barclays | 8.9% |
| Provider | AER* |
|
ICICI BANK HiSAVE Fixed Rate Account |
7.20% |
|
ICICI BANK HiSAVE Fixed Rate Account |
7.00% |
|
ICICI BANK HiSAVE Fixed Rate Account |
7.00% |
|
ARRAY(0x15640734) 6 Month Fixed Rate Savings Account |
6.60% |