Seminar 4: Social Issues and Cultural Awareness

 As I reflect on seminar 4 it’s clear that many religions are similar with the respect to being kind, giving to the poor, and focusing on becoming a better person. These practices are relevant to the Agricultural Leadership group since leadership starts with understanding your audience and treating individuals with respect.

 

In Albuquerque class 15 experienced many different regions and cultures.

  

- Buddhist Faith- we learned about the buddism faith and walk us through a guided

meditation.

- Joy Junction- Homelessness in Albuquerque

-B’nai Israel- Jewish faith (photo)

-Veterans’ Reintegration Center- discussed issues, addiction, homeless, and employment,                          that veterans’ face.

- Sikh Faith- met Satnam Kaur Bhullar and Ahiran Singh to learn more about the

Sikh Faith (photo)

- Islamic Faith- We discussed the Islam faith and food practices. Observed evening prayer Asr. newsletter article below. 

“Islam” means submission to the will of God. While in Albuquerque class 15 had the pleasure of speaking with Imam Mahmoud about the Islamic faith and architecture of the mosque.

Islam is the second largest religion in the world and dates back to the seventy centuries. Imam Mahmoud explained the history of the faith and their belief in an all-knowing God, who in Arabic is known as Allah. The five pillars define their faith which are declaration of faith, praying five times a day, donating a certain portion of their wealth, fasting during Ramadan, and making a pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Imam Mahmoud gave examples of how the Islam people in Albuquerque obey the directions of the five pillars.

Class 15 was educated about the Islamic calendar which is determined by the lunar calendar which indicates the days of Islamic holidays and celebrations, the most well-known holiday is Ramadan, which is a time of fasting and prayer. 

While visiting the mosque the class observed the Muslim evening prayer called Asr which is often conducted in a mosque's large open room. There are requirements for prayer sessions which include the direction to face during prayer, praying five times a day, and men and women pray separately.

Muslim’s foods specifically the “Halal” was interesting to the class since that agriculture practice wasn’t well known by the group. Halal slaughter has specific requirements such as blessing by God, precise cutting and bleeding of the animal. The group discussed this practice and what it means to the agriculture meat production industry. The class wrapped up their visit at the mosque with a sweet treat and viewing the architecture of the building and minbar or pulpit which was charismatically made.