Date posted: August 8, 2013

Loreena McKennitt, an internationally acclaimed Canadian singer, expressed her appreciation of Turkish Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen’s ideas on Wednesday at the Intercultural Dialogue Institute’s (IDI) Toronto Friendship Dinner.

In her remarks, she recalled Gülen’s call for love, compassion, forgiveness and celebration of diversity for which she affirmed her full support.

‘I personally relate to Mr. Gülen’s ideas and his whole views very much. I think he has identified some very critical points up from which we must consider taking on our lives. I think ones of love, compassion, forgiveness, celebration of diversity, to be able to look for mutual elements of commonality are the most important ones. I was very impressed about to hear his work and all the centers around the world that are supporting his work. I would love to support it by myself.’

McKennitt is a Canadian singer, composer, harpist and pianist most famous for writing, recording and performing world music with Celtic and Middle Eastern themes. McKennitt is known for her refined, warbling soprano vocals.

Gülen is a Turkish Islamic scholar well known for his teachings promoting mutual understanding and tolerance between cultures. He has pioneered educational activities in a number of countries, along with efforts to promote intercultural and interfaith activities around the world.

He has also written nearly 50 books in Turkish, some of which have been translated into several languages.

Source: Today's Zaman , 8 August 2013

Tags: Canada | Fethullah Gulen | North America |