Perry Attends Groundbreaking for Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center

Perry Attends Groundbreaking for Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center

Gov. Rick Perry today helped break ground for the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center, saying the center will provide Ismaili Muslims with a place where they can continue to put their faith into action by extending a helping hand to Texans in need.

"It is my great honor to help lay the foundation not only for the new Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center but also for a future of greater compassion for those in need and a future of greater peace and understanding for all our people," Perry said. "At this Center, Ismaili Muslims will have a place where they can continue to put their faith into action by extending a helping hand to Texans in need and by promoting peace and unity in the Ismaili tradition that extends for more than a millennium."

Perry noted that Texas is one of the most culturally diverse states in the nation, with 22 million people who trace their roots to every corner of the globe. "Our culture is enriched and our society strengthened by a diverse mixture of traditions, heritages and faiths," Perry said. "Faith is a positive force in our society, especially when it is expressed through the loving actions of men and women who seek to make a difference in the lives of their fellow human beings."

The Ismaili Jamatkhana, which means place of gathering, includes a cultural center, exhibition space, conference and learning facilities, prayer rooms and offices.

"For many years, I have had the great honor of getting to know many of the talented and devoted Ismaili Muslims who are proud to call Texas home and I can say with certainty that the Ismaili community is bearing good fruit for the people of this state," Perry said. "Now more than ever, our society can greatly benefit when people of different faiths form new relationships built on mutual respect, compassion and our common human dignity."

http://www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/press/pressreleases/PressRelease.2005-06-14.3001