Society
Of The Divine Word

Through the collaboration of the parish — where Fr. Klemens Hayon SVD serves as pastor — the Protestant Church of Roosendaal, the Moroccan mosque, the Prisma Foundation from Breda (a network of Turkish migrants), the working group for Diaconal Soup Meals, and the Platform WerkSaam Roosendaal, of which Fr. Klemens is also an active member, this shared initiative was organized.

The Iftar and Ecumenical Soup Meal began after sunset. The minister of the Protestant Church warmly welcomed the approximately 90 participants, composed equally of Muslims, Catholics, and Protestants. After the welcome speech, one participant recited verses from the Qur’an, followed by a meal blessing led by Fr. Klemens Hayon SVD.

The atmosphere during the meal was warm and welcoming, providing a precious opportunity for meeting, listening, and engaging in meaningful conversation, thus creating a spirit of fraternity. After the meal, a young boy recited passages from the Qur’an for about five minutes. His melodious voice created a serene and prayerful atmosphere. In response to this spirit of fraternity, Fr. Klemens, together with three Sisters of Charity, sang Psalm 18: “I love You, O Lord, my strength.” The refrain was sung by all the participants, while the solo parts were performed by Fr. Klemens and the sisters. Some of our Muslim brothers and sisters joined in singing the refrain. That evening was truly a tangible moment of interreligious dialogue and fraternity.