Observance of the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and this year, Ramadan falls during the time when Jews celebrate Passover and Christians celebrate Easter. Historically, the month of Ramadan has also been a time of increased tension in the Middle East.

Ramadan will begin on March 22 or 23 (depending on the new moon sighting) and during this month, a billion Muslims throughout the world will be abstaining from earthly pleasures (eating, smoking, sex) from dawn to sunset. The observance will last for thirty days, ending with the festival of Eid al-Fitr on April 21 or 22.

During Ramadan, Muslims strive to please Allah and seek his mercy. They rise early, share a meal (sahur), begin fasting around 5:10 a.m., and recite the Fajr, the first of five daily prayers recited throughout each day. Abstinence during Ramadan combines refraining from earthly pleasures and restraining from any evil desires and is considered an act of submission to Allah and atonement for their sins.

Because tensions can rise precipitously and violence can escalate rapidly as Muslims, Jews, and Christians all celebrate holy days simultaneously, we are asking you to join us in praying for peace in Israel and throughout the Middle East during Ramadan.