The Spokane Islamic Center invites the community to celebrate the end of Ramadan with them on Sunday. An Eid-ul-Fitr prayer will be held at 10 a.m. and will be followed with a community potluck. Note, however, that a large crowd is expected so come early!

On Tuesday the Rev. Patrick Baraza will speak about Islam at Immaculate Heart Retreat Center. He will present "Islam: Muslims are our Neighbors, Too," and will discuss Muhammad, shariah law and other topics. Cost is $35. You can register here.

Bishop James Waggoner, of The Episcopal Diocese of Spokane, sent an e-letter today asking for prayers for those impacted by the Cle Elum/Ellensburg area wildfires. “We are offering prayers of thanksgiving that no loss of life or critical personal injury has been reported,” he wrote, “I know you join me in constant prayers for the safety of all and for the protection of life and property.”

Continuing with Episcopal news, it’s almost back to school time and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church is helping families get ready by taking an offering of school supplies and backpacks. On Sunday at the church’s 10 a.m. service the collected supplies will be blessed and packaged with “notes of encouragement” for the students and teachers.

The Spokane City Council will vote Monday on the proposed panhandler ordinance. If it passes, panhandlers will no longer be allowed on certain city streets. SpokaneFAVS writer Rev. Alan Eschenbacher is not pleased with this proposal. Check out his column here.

What are your thoughts on the issue?