MIC and Heartsong bid farewell to Pastor Stone at annual picnic

The Memphis Islamic Center and the Heartsong Church hosted a picnic to celebrate their friendship and the strong relationships forged over faith on Sunday at MIC.

“There is no better way to start the summer break than an event such as this. It really

brings our community together,” Bilal Siddiq, a student at Rhodes College.

Over burgers and biryani, around 300 people of different faith gathered to celebrate the beautiful weather and the beauty of interfaith cooperation.

“I have had a tremendous experience getting to know our neighbors,” said Hamid Shirwany of Germantown.

In addition to celebrating old relationships and forming new friendships, the event also honored Pastor Steve Stone, who recently retired and has been instrumental in building these relationships.

“We are all thankful for Pastor Stone, and we are excited to wish him a happy retirement” said Hassan Arshad, a student at the University of Memphis. "Events like these bring hope to many."