Where the faiths of our fathers meet… and do not collide
: A few weeks ago, I told you about sitting at Ibby’s falafel stand in Jersey City watching a steady train of Muslim men march into what appeared to be a synagogue for Friday services.
Today’s Star-Ledger has the fascinating story of the place: First, 150 years ago, a Baptist church, then a synagogue, then a mosque.
…a tiny paper sign with Arabic script hangs beneath the mail slot, identifying the building as a mosque. Then there are the soot-black Stars of David carved beneath the cornice, telltale signs of a synagogue. Finally, there are the red brick walls tucked behind the limestone facade, suggesting a previous life as a church.
Here is something unusual, and possibly unique: a single structure that has offered sanctuary to Christians, Jews and Muslims.
Here, in the thriving center of Hudson County’s Gold Coast, lies a crossroads of faith, hiding in plain sight, hoarding secrets behind walls stained by age and neglect.
