Priest organizes Iftar for Muslim neighbors in Bosnia, promoting interfaith solidarity

PROZOR, BIH-MAR. 22: In a show of interfaith solidarity, Catholic priest Branko Jurić hosted an iftar for Bosniak neighbors in Šćipe village near Prozor on March 22, reviving traditions of mutual respect. Held at the local school, the gathering brought together community members in an atmosphere of unity. Jurić, director of Tuzla's Catholic School Center, called it an opportunity to "heal historical wounds." The coinciding of Ramadan and Lent added special significance. "The iftar lets us share joy," Jurić told Anadolu. "Fasting brings spiritual renewal - a chance to improve ourselves." He stressed this message is vital for religious leaders in post-war regions: "We must demonstrate coexistence and heal historical wounds from all sides." Amel Imamović of "Klub Šćipljaka" said the gesture held deep meaning coming from another faith community. "This isn't just formal - you feel their sincerity," he noted, recalling how local Catholics historically avoided eating publicly during Ramadan out of respect. The event concluded with joint prayers and gifts of flour from Jurić's family mill.(Footage by Denis Zuberi/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)