Arab Festival Once Again A Unique Opportunity

Aglow once again joined many of our brothers and sisters to “be the presence of the Lord” at the Arab International Festival from June 16-19, 2011, in Dearborn, MI. Dearborn has one of the highest concentrations of Arabs outside of the M.E. whom all join together to celebrate their heritage. When one visits there, it is easy to feel that you are in an Arab land as noted by the Arabic signage, the wonderful Arab restaurants and the dress of the people. The smell of hummus and kebabs cooking, the lilt of the Arabic language being spoken and the sound of
the ‘ud’ and other Arab instruments make the atmosphere very festive. Alongside the approximately 300,000 who attended this Festival, there were 100-150 Christians who came to serve at the children’s tent by helping them with crafts and Father’s Day cards, to set up chairs and booths, to direct autos for parking, to keep the place neat and orderly, to help lost children find their parents and a myriad number of other tasks which are necessary. All the while we were praying and extending the love of the Father to each one in attendance. From chatting about our beliefs to even talking to a searching Muslim woman, we were able to “let our lights shine” in many varied ways. It was a wonderful opportunity to exhibit our care and concern to this people group right here in America. Come along with us next year for a unique opportunity to be used by God.

Written by Cheryl Erbes