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Friday begins the worldwide Islamic celebration of Eid al-Adha (pronounced "eed ul ud-ha"), or the Festival of Sacrifice.
During the four-day holiday, which falls during the hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, Muslims will attend a service that begins with a special chant glorifying God. A prayer and a lecture follow, along with a meal that includes a sacrificed animal, often a lamb.It's the Muslim holiday most like Christmas, said Ahmad Kayello, imam of Modesto's Islamic Center. During the holiday, children will dress in their best clothes and visit relatives, who will give them money that the youngsters will use to buy bicycles or other fun items.Several different faiths will participate in the annual interfaith Thanksgiving service at 7:15 p.m. Monday. The service will include songs, readings and dance from Baha'i, American Indian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, pagan, Protestant, Catholic and Unitarian traditions.
The service is open to everyone; participants are encouraged to bring canned and nonperishable food items or monetary donations for Inter-faith Ministry's Food Bank. No other offering will be taken."The food bank is really in need of help right now," said one organizer.The sign sits propped on a wooden chair, inviting all comers: "Ask an Atheist."
Call the Volunteer Center of the United Way at 524-1307 or e-mail volunteer@uwaystan.org unless otherwise noted.