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Members of the Muslim community at BWH and friends and family gathered earlier this month for an Iftar dinner, hosted by Chaplaincy Services, Human Resources and the Center for Faculty Development & Diversity.
Iftar is the breaking of the fast every day at sunset during the Holy Month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Most Muslims fast from dawn, approximately two hours before sunrise, to sunset during Holy Month.
"Families usually break the fast together every night, and sometimes groups come together to celebrate the meal," said Kathleen Gallivan, SND, PhD, director of Chaplaincy Services. "We have been holding an Iftar dinner for about six years. It is getting bigger every year."
The celebration of faith, food, friends and family began with dates and milk, which help the body prepare for food after a day of fasting, said Imam Talal Eid. At sunset, Eid led Muslims through a series of prayers and readings from the Quran, as they stood facing northeast toward Mecca.
"Prayer and fasting are the main obligations during Ramadan," said Eid. "It is a time to look at the Prophet Muhammad's life and to be charitable. We learn many things and discipline ourselves to be patient and to tolerate hunger and thirst."
After prayers, a delicious feast awaited Muslim community members and others in attendance, including spouses and children, physicians, researchers, residents, students and others.
"The event is wonderful because it encourages people to learn about different faiths and cultures," said Lianne Crossette, of Human Resources, while waiting in line for dinner.
Added Gallivan: "We are an interfaith, multi-faith department, and it is important for us to recognize the special holy days of our different faith traditions."