Celebrating Ramadan in 2023

Photo: Abdul Qaiyoom - stock.adobe.com

Ramadan Mubarak to our readers

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and is observed worldwide by Muslims as a month for fasting. It is the month when the Holy Qur’an was revealed and honours the values at the heart of Islam.

Mosques are at the centre of activities associated with Ramadan. It is a month of giving charity, looking after others, showing compassion and mercy. It’s about self-reflection and devotion to the creator. It’s a time for reflection and meditation.

This year Rochdale Council of Mosques (RCM) has worked with mosques in the borough to ensure the safety of all those attending the mosque, whether for self-reflection, individual prayer or congregational prayer. It is important to be mindful of residents living near and around mosques.

Being considerate of their needs and quality of life. Many families are looking forward to attending their local Mosques and reinvigorating their spiritual health.

Rochdale Council of Mosques' focus this year is around looking after your neighbour. Mosques will be looking to invite those who are isolated and in need of assistance to join them in opening the fast at sunset. They will continue to take general precautions to ensure their congregations and the wider community remains safe.

Tahir Mahmood, chair of Rochdale Council of Mosques, said: "We want people to take a look around where they live and identify those who are less fortunate or have little or no engagement with the wider community and invite them to their community Iftars. Islam is about compassion, peace and charity.

"The last few years has been very traumatic and difficult for many families, who have suffered ill health and the loss of loved ones. On behalf of RCM, our condolences. Peace and blessings to everyone in the borough.

"The month of Ramadan commenced on Thursday 23 March. We look forward to welcoming families and the wider community into the Mosques.

"RCM would like to wish everyone marking this month of fasting a very happy, healthy and peaceful Ramadan."