Fasting Brings People of Faith Together During Ramadan

People of various faith backgrounds were invited to an Iftar dinner in Melton recently, where diverse mosque communities throughout Victoria gathered to break their fast after sunset.

Various Muslim speakers throughout the night noted that fasting is one of the quickest forms of worship to reach God. Muslims believe that the spiritual benefits of fasting include connection with God and an inclination to help others. The physical benefits of better health and protection from various illnesses are also a blessing.

Asad Taqvi explained, “Religious observances of Ramadan focus on charity, spiritual journey, and self-control, which are good principles for all to follow regardless of religious affiliation.”

Imam Abdul Rizvi said, “Going without food and drink is the lowest type of fasting. There must be balance between God and people — which includes praying for neighbour first, then family.”

He read from the Quran and noted, “Fasting is prescribed for you as those before. Any unable to fast may compensate by feeding a needy person.”

David Cowan, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and President of the Melton Interfaith Network, explained that many other religions share this common practice of fasting to reset and show devotion to God.

“In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” he said, “we fast once a month for 24 hours — beginning Saturday night and ending on Sunday. We end our fast with a testimony meeting and donate the equivalent of two meals or more."

"For me, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ, fasting brings a better understanding of those who don’t have enough to eat, helps me to know God’s will, and has physical benefits," Cowan said.

Mohamed Omar sang the call to prayer.

At sunset — 7:31 pm — Muslims broke their fast, with water bottles and dates set before them at the tables. All guests were invited to join. The Muslims desiring to pray went into the next room, facing Qibla to offer their devotions to God. The meal followed.

Mayor Kathy Majdlik acknowledged the role of harmony that Melton Interfaith Network plays among the 150 nationalities represented in the community.

Paulo Westerlund, who serves as Bishop (a lay leader of a local congregation) of the Church of Jesus Christ in Melton, said, “I felt sincerity when they were praying. Fasting draws us close to God.”

He added, “One of the main things I picked up from interfaith events is service. It’s great to reach out to other faiths for service, especially in having youth connect to the community for service activities. We believe in different things, but we all believe in doing kind things; we’re all working toward the common purpose of coming closer to God.”

His wife, Kita Westerlund, works in a school with many Muslim youth.

“I love how committed they are to their religion,” she said. “The kids don’t fast for show, or like the scripture says, ‘with a sad countenance.'"

"They get up early, eat before sunup, then while fasting, just go about their day as normal and eat after sunset," she continued. "If a Muslim friend is fasting, they won’t eat or drink in front of them to show respect for their friends.”

Bishop Westerlund observed, “Sometimes we don’t approach people of other faiths because we don’t understand them. Interfaith brings us together.”

David Cowan agreed, “This was a great night to have many members of the community get together. Unity helps us understand one another.”

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