CNY RISE Center hosted its Traditional Turkish Coffee Night 2026, welcoming community members from diverse backgrounds for an evening of cultural exchange, interfaith dialogue, and friendship. The gathering provided an opportunity for guests to connect, share experiences, and celebrate the values of mutual understanding, respect, and togetherness.

The evening featured Reverend Suzi Harriff, Pastoral Partner at Mission Hope Community in Camillus and a board member of CNY RISE Center. Reverend Harriff shared experiences and reflections from her recent interfaith trip to Greece and Albania, highlighting the importance of building bridges across religious and cultural communities.

Drawing on her extensive involvement in interfaith initiatives, including her participation in the Round Table of Faith Leaders at InterFaith Works, Reverend Harriff emphasized the role of dialogue, personal relationships, and shared experiences in fostering understanding and reconciliation. Her reflections underscored how meaningful connections between people of different faiths and backgrounds can help strengthen communities and promote a more inclusive society.

The program also included welcoming remarks from Tim Saka of CNY RISE Center and a special video presentation highlighting the organization’s commitment to promoting friendship and interfaith understanding. In appreciation of her inspiring presentation, Reverend Harriff received special gifts, including a framed piece of calligraphy created by a talented member of the community.

Guests enjoyed a delicious selection of homemade Turkish cuisine and traditional treats prepared by CNY RISE Center volunteers. Freshly brewed Turkish coffee and authentic Kazakh tea added to the evening’s cultural experience, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for conversation, new friendships, and meaningful connections.

Beyond the food and cultural traditions, Turkish Coffee Night offered a valuable opportunity for people to learn from one another and discover common values across different faiths and cultures. The evening demonstrated how sharing a meal, listening to personal stories, and engaging in open conversation can nurture trust and bring people closer together.

CNY RISE Center extends its sincere appreciation to Reverend Suzi Harriff for sharing her experiences and insights, to the volunteers whose dedication made the gathering possible, and to all the guests who joined in celebrating friendship and community.

Through programs that encourage cultural exchange, interfaith dialogue, and service to others, CNY RISE Center continues to build connections across communities and promote a spirit of respect, empathy, and mutual understanding.

We RISE by lifting others.