India: Islamic Studies Association welcomes Ramadan and Lent

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The Islamic Studies Association warmly welcomes the forthcoming arrival of Ramadan, a significant time for fostering solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters not only in South Asia but also across the globe.

In 2025, Ramadan will commence on March 2nd and conclude with the joyous celebration of Eid ul-Fitr on March 30th. Notably, this year's observance of Ramadan coincides with the Christian season of Lent (beginning on Ash Wednesday, March 5th, 2025).

During this sacred period, both Muslims and Christians are called to go deeper into their faith through the practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These spiritual exercises provide us with several opportunities for reflection, conversion, personal growth, and a sense of community.

We find ourselves in a post-truth world where facts have become increasingly irrelevant, drowning us in a milieu devoid of God. One can feel challenged to rediscover ourselves and God's presence in our lives and those of our neighbours. However, during the sacred times that lie ahead, we can reconnect with our innermost selves-the very place where God communicates with us.

We, certainly, cannot ignore the dehumanizing poverty, illiteracy, and conflicts that afflict our communities. Political leaders often fan the flames of hatred, creating barriers among diverse groups for their agenda. In this context, our fasting, praying, and almsgiving can lead to a heartfelt conversion, making us more attuned to the suffering of our brothers and sisters who are created in the image of God.

The current environmental crisis poses a significant challenge for the poor and vulnerable, making it essential for Christians, Muslims, and all people of goodwill to take urgent action. The observance of Lent and Ramadan deepens our awareness of the cries of our planet, which God has created, declared good, and entrusted to us as caretakers. May God inspire us to embrace our roles as true stewards of Mother Earth, living in harmony with her.

As we journey through this overlapping sacred season, let us come together around shared values of compassion, devotion, and community-building that unite us across our religious boundaries.

Joseph Victor Edwin SJ, is Secretary of the Islamic Studies Association, Delhi