From Matzah to Iftar: Bridging Passover, Lent, and Ramadan

Building Bridges During Lent, Ramadan, and Passover

Wishing our Christian brothers and sisters a blessed Ash Wednesday and Lenten season, a time of spiritual renewal, reflection, and service. Lent begins on March 5 and continues for 40 days, culminating in Easter. 

Like in recent years, Lent overlaps with Ramadan, which began on Saturday, March 1. These sacred seasons invite millions of Christians and Muslims around the world to embrace fasting, prayer, almsgiving, and acts of service—reminding us of our shared spiritual values and deepening our commitment to justice, compassion, and peace.

As we navigate a challenging political climate that has heightened fears and divisions, this is a powerful time to reach out across religious lines to build bridges of understanding and solidarity. We encourage our readers to take this opportunity to connect with neighbors, colleagues, and community members of different faiths.

We send our best wishes to our Christian and Muslim colleagues, neighbors, and friends observing Lent and Ramadan and pray that these sacred seasons bring renewal, strength, and a renewed commitment to peace.

We also join our prayers with Catholics around the world for the health of Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized. In 2013, our Executive Director Maha Elgenaidi reflected on the potential of Pope Francis to strengthen Muslim-Catholic relations in an April 2013 editorial: Pope Francis, a New Hope for Muslim-Catholic Relations.

Interfaith Iftars (Breaking of the Fast)

Last week, we released a recording on “Supporting Muslim Colleagues: Insights on Ramadan and Workplace Inclusion.” As part of fostering interfaith connections, we encourage you to check in with your local mosques or Muslim colleagues and neighbors to attend interfaith iftars (communal fast-breaking meals) held across the country during Ramadan. These gatherings provide a unique opportunity to share a meal, deepen understanding, and stand in solidarity. A valuable resource on interfaith iftars is available from Shoulder-to-Shoulder here: Ramadan Series — The Shoulder-to-Shoulder Campaign.

Looking Ahead: 
Passover and Jewish-Christian-Muslim Solidarity

With Passover approaching in April, Jewish communities across the country will gather to commemorate the Exodus—their liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. The Passover Seder, a ritual meal, tells the story of oppression, resilience, and divine justice—themes that resonate across many faith traditions. In fact, the Exodus story is one of the most often told stories in the Quran.

As we honor these sacred observances—Lent, Ramadan, and Passover—may we be reminded that faith calls us to stand together, uplift one another, and work for a world rooted in justice, dignity, and peace.

We encourage our readers to reach out to their Jewish neighbors, colleagues, or local synagogues to attend interfaith Seders, which are held in many communities across the country. These gatherings provide a beautiful opportunity for people of all backgrounds to share in the themes of liberation and justice that Passover represents.

Let this be a time of hope, healing, and solidarity.

In faith and friendship, and with gratitude,

ING Team