SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE:Islamic center dinner will mark its 11th year

It has been a tradition for the Islamic Educational Center of Orange County in Costa Mesa to have its annual banquet celebration upon the birth of the most revered and anticipated apostolic Muslim figure, Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi, the 11th great grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. This year, the educational center will mark its 11th year at the Irvine Marriott on Sunday, Aug. 26.

In the Muslim calendar, the 12th of Shaban, 1428, will coincide with Aug. 26, 2007, marking a few days before the birthday of Imam al-Mahdi (15th of Shaban, 255). Not just limited to the Muslim belief, Imam al-Mahdi is considered to be the savior of humanity. His future appearance will come at a time when human justice and tranquillity are virtually nonexistent in the world. Accordingly, messianic similarities can also be seen in Judaism, with the anticipated arrival of the Messiah; and in Christianity, with the second coming of Christ. Each faith shares the belief that the awaited savior will establish the “Kingdom of God� on earth.

Muslims worldwide revere this date as a marking of great hope and anticipation.

In line with this year’s theme, “Uniting the Muslim Ummah,� the educational center has invited a number of local leaders to partake in this yearly event that draws in hundreds of American Muslims from Orange and Los Angeles counties.

Keynote speakers, such as Charles Alawan from Detroit, will highlight the historical similarities of the Shia and Sunni branches of Islam. Rev. Dennis Short, president of the Newport-Mesa-Irvine Interfaith Council, will discuss the importance of cooperation and support among interfaith groups. I will talk about religious unification. Other speakers and guests are scheduled to address the audience on matters of activism and spirituality.

This dinner event is open to the public. For tickets, which are $30, call the educational center at (714) 432-0060. The event will be at the Irvine Marriott Hotel, 18000 Von Karman Ave., Irvine. The reception begins at 4 p.m.