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From L to R: Maha Elgenaidi, Ameena Jandali, Ishaq Pathan, Fattin Wekselman, Kate Chance, Hank Millstein, Tim Brauhn, Paky ElHossamy. Not pictured: Hind Ghandour, Aaron Choy, Steve Cohen. www.ing.org/staff
Wishing all those who are observing Ramadan a blessed month to you and your families!
— From all of us at ING
Saturday, May 27th marks the beginning of Ramadan, the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims fast daily from dawn to sunset. Muslims believe that Ramadan is the month in which the first verses of Islam’s holy book, the Qur’an, were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. During the month, Muslims make special efforts to complete a reading of the entire Qur’an and to observe extra prayers and good deeds. To learn more about Ramadan, visit our online fact sheet.
“O believers, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may be conscientious” (Qur’an, 2:183).
Similar to times of fasting in other faiths, such as Yom Kippur in Judaism and Lent in Christianity, Ramadan is an opportunity to learn the spirit of sacrifice, self-restraint, and introspection as well as a time for extra charity and good deeds.
In today’s world of increased intolerance, bigotry, conflict, and strife, let us take this month as an opportunity to imbibe the spirit of forgiveness, love, and peace, beginning first within ourselves and then extending this spirit to our family, friends, and communities. May the spirit of Ramadan encompass all of us with mercy and blessings and inspire us to work towards a better world for all its inhabitants.
Ramadan Resources and Opportunities for Youth Internships:
- Muslim parents: this year, the ING internship program is offering opportunities for high school (as young as 14 years of age) and undergraduate students up to age 25. We are currently recruiting for our INGYouth and ING Interfaith programs. Applications will be accepted till June 9. Start date is Monday, June 19.
- Corporate managers: Get an introduction to Islam and Ramadan as well as tips for accommodating Muslim employees and students.
- Mosque leaders and their allies: get tips on interfaith work during Ramadan, with a particular focus on inviting other faiths to participate in Ramadan events.