Community Spirit Thrives This Ramadan: A Look at the Joy of Iftar

As the holy month of Ramadan unfolds, communities come alive with a sense of togetherness and generosity. In Manchester, particularly at the Alfurqan Islamic Centre on Great Southern Street, the atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming as volunteers prepare to serve free meals to those in need during iftar, the evening meal to break the daily fast.

A Warm Welcome for All

Abdillahi Muhammed, a dedicated member of the mosque's management team, shares that they expect to feed about 300 people each evening. This includes everyone from lonely men and busy students to families and asylum seekers. "The food is free and a lot of it is provided by people from the community," he explains. The powerful sense of community during this time is palpable, as attendees enjoy not just the meal, but the shared experience and spiritual connection.

More Than Just a Meal

Ramadan is not solely about fasting; it is a time for reflection on character and behavior, according to Abdillahi. He emphasizes the importance of embodying the essence of Islam and using this month to foster positive change in one's life. "This is a good time to get rid of your bad habits," he says, encouraging those participating to strive for personal growth and communal harmony.

Strengthening Community Bonds

Nearby, the lively Curry Mile is poised to welcome many families for iftar, creating a festive ambiance that has been missed in previous years. Mo Khader, owner of Jafra restaurant which specializes in Palestinian cuisine, voices a sense of hope for this year's turnout. "Ramadan is a nice atmosphere. People meet here and break their fast together; it's beautiful to see," he states, reflecting the joy of social gatherings during this time.

Though there is pressure on restaurants to accommodate the simultaneous influx of diners, Mo remains optimistic. He notes that with Ramadan's timing this year, coinciding with school holidays and convenient evening hours, many families will likely opt for dining out instead of cooking at home, marking a potential return to the bustling atmosphere of community dining.

As Ramadan progresses, it is clear that the bonds created during iftar are integral to the fabric of the community. This month serves as a reminder of the collective spirit, commitment to charity, and the beauty of coming together to share both food and faith.