Sarat Kamal Sammaddar, a Bengali Seventh-day Adventist writer and pastor, was recognized at an interdenominational ceremony on February 10 for his work in promoting “an amiable relationship and understanding among Muslims and Christians.”

Sammaddar, 83, has published numerous articles and 12 books on topics relating to both Christians and Muslims, including his latest work, “Instructions from Al-Quran and Sacred Writ.”

Dr. Anisussaman, professor of the University of Dhaka philosophy department, calls Samaddar “an inspired writer and a ready speaker on spiritual matters.” Anisussaman, well-known for his Muslim beliefs, adds that Sammaddar “combines a profound understanding, deep insight, and a rare scholarship of what the Bible wishes to convey. I do not know how it would sound to other communities but would dare to say, following our Islamic tradition, that he is a Hafiz of the Bible; that is to say, one who has memorized almost the whole of the Bible.”

At the ceremony, Sammaddar was presented with a medal by the National Council of Christian Churches of Bangladesh, honoring him as a skilled writer, philanthropist, businessman, social benefactor, and teacher.