Muslims celebrate Eid al-adha at Brookdale Community College

I thought this was interesting but wonder if some people with small minds would be offended to know that a community college right in their backyard, would help the local Muslim community celebrate one of it's most holy events of the year - Eid al-adha - a celebration of Abraham.

For all of the talk about how diversity in Monmouth County is cherished and respected, the simple fact of the matter is that minorities make up only about 5 percent of the population. I don't think that a majority of residents would see this celebration at Brookdale as a positive .

I think they would rather dwell on the negative by saying how could a higher learning center that is taxpayer supported, reach out to a community that is perceived to be so opposed to their Judeo-Christan beliefs.

It's a shame that a few people would have to feel this way. I think it is a good thing that Brookdale would support such an event as this and lend a hand at helping residents understand that diverisity and understanding of others is a good thing, not something that should be feared or looked down upon.

Asbury Park Press
MIDDLETOWN — Millions of Muslims from around the world celebrated their most important holiday this week with the Hajj to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The culmination of the ritual was its Eid al-adha, a celebration to Abraham.

At the Collins Arena at Brookdale Community College in Middletown, about 1,000 people attended the Islamic Society of Monmouth County's celebration on Friday morning.

A pillar of the religion for adherents is to go on a pilgrimage to the holy land.

Ibrahim Naboulis of Marlboro, a member of the society, fulfilled his obligation to his religion five years ago.

"I was one of the lucky ones," he said, referring his opportunity to go on the pilgrimage as a fate from God.

"I cannot describe the experience," Naboulis said, referring to his pilgrimage. "There are no kings, no presidents. Everyone is equal, you do not know who is standing, praying next to you. Everyone is the same."

The Hajj is for Muslims a chance to cleanse themselves of sin, and to be a good person, said Mohamed Meshal of Tinton Falls. He has had the privilege of going on the pilgrimage five times.

For Muslims in this area, the society celebrates each year with an Eid al-adha.

The celebration at the college included chanting to God, praying, donations for the society and the poor, and a festival that included games for children, food and trivia games.

Mohammad Hugh, 17, of Middletown said someday he would make a pilgrimage to Mecca, but for now he is grateful for attending this event.

Patty Samy Degheidy of South Amboy also attended the religious event.

"We are here to celebrate Abraham," she said. "This is our day to celebrate the miracle of God allowing Abraham to sacrifice a lamb and not Ismael (Abraham's son).