Breaking Fast…as a community

Time of Spiritual Reflection

As with many religious ceremonies and festivals, they come around each and every year. One that is beguiling in its spiritual understanding and dedication is the Muslim fast for Ramadan. Thirty days of fasting from sunrise to sunset. At each day’s conclusion, is the breaking of the fast as a community.

As-Salam-u-Alaikum (Peace be upon you)
Ramadan Kareem (Ramadan blessings)

Let’s not focus upon the lack of food and drink, but what the real emphasis of this fast is about. The intention is to become closer to God, but also to remind themselves of the community. Reminding us that some within the community may be living in less fortunate conditions or circumstances.

So from Suhoor, when they consume a moderate meal very early in the morning, which prepares them for the day ahead. At Iftar, where they can usually attend this together, highlights this breath of kindness, a shared meal. It is one of celebration of God’s kindness and blessing.

At the breaking of the fast they may recite:

O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You and I put my trust in You and I break my fast with Your sustenance

Breaking of the fast Dua

Ramadan teaches a great number of things: patience, piety and discipline are just a few examples. Muslims can look to take advantage of the opportunity Ramadan brings. They also give Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, where they give 2.5% of their income to good causes.

Todmorden Community Iftar

In Todmorden, there is usually a large gathering at the Todmorden Town Hall. At such, many may be invited who may not take part in Ramadan. This large shared meal, one typical of radical hospitality, is one to be savoured. This year, it will be slightly different: and we should possibly consider how it may be for each family throughout Ramadan where that opportunity to share has not been possible. So, the breaking of the fast this year is within a virtual community.

Combination of Difference bringing Unity

This is a very special Ramadan, because during times of crisis, community building is vitally important. As Christians, we may see Ramadan as very different; however, within Lent and Ramadan I see there is a common theme of reflection, preparing us for the future.

Furthermore, as one community, to celebrate what we have in common is powerful. It doesn’t bring power, but is a sign of the synergy that may be possible when different groups can come together. Where they don’t recognise what is generally perceived as barriers, but see commonality as the basis to bring people together. For in that, we all have greater resilience. For we are socially connected, looking after the welfare of each other. This might be seen with Tod Squad, the Kindness Hub, and the many, many volunteers who strive to support those within Todmorden and the surrounding areas. We may not immediately recognise the different faith groups in that work but:

“We are on separate boats but in the same storm”

or possibly

“We are all in the same boat, but not the same storm”

Sara Taylor, Nurse

and it is the solidarity which is that foundation within the richness of the diversity, bringing beauty to our society.

I would like to thank Nadeem, Todmorden Integrate, for inviting others to join with the Muslim community, as you break this fast this day. As one of the facilitators of Todmorden Faith, as a minister of the local Methodist Church, I see this gathering as a wonderful combination of difference which brings unity. Praise God.

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A previous discussion about fasting, from an Islamic and Christian perspective can be found here.

The presentation given at this year’s Iftar are here