ISRA and ASR Ramadan Iftar Dinner
Last Thursday, myself and a group of Year 12 SOR II students, had the privilege of attending the ISRA Iftar dinner at Amity College. Throughout the evening, we were able to witness many Islamic traditions such as a Quran recitation and an Islamic prayer. We also witnessed a daily prayer in the Mosque, where some of the students explained to us the importance of prayer to them and how it brings them closer to their faith. When observing the breaking of fast, we were all able to gain a deeper insight into the meaning behind Ramadan and how each tradition within it is a reflection of their devotion to God. We also heard from a member of the ISRA association, who spoke on her experience of being Islamic within a predominantly Catholic school. She highlighted how throughout her time at school, her friends and peers were supportive of her religion which allowed her to flourish and feel a deeper sense of harmony. Amongst our tables we had a chance to reflect on the importance of Interfaith dialogue, by discussing the misconceptions that further the divide for peace between religions. Pope Francis has stated “Interreligious dialogue is a necessary condition for peace in the world, and so it is a duty for Christians as well as other religious communities.” He emphasises that in order to maintain and grow peace amongst all religious groups, we must further our knowledge and understanding of one another. The Iftar dinner has deepened my appreciation for the Islamic faith and has also taught me the importance of striving towards harmony amongst all religions in order to achieve peace and unity.
Ashley Shivakumar
Year 12
On March 6th, students from the Studies of Religion II cohort had the unique opportunity to experience an Iftar dinner, graciously supported by the ISRA – Islamic Research and Sciences Academy and the NSW Association of Studies of Religion.
During this event, we collaborated with students from various schools, exchanging insights about our respective religions and communities. We observed Muslim students breaking their Ramadan fast, witnessed recitation of verses from the Quran and observed the Islamic congregational prayer. Sharing a Ramadan dinner with the other students allowed us to gain a deeper appreciation for different religions. We learned about their distinct practices and, more importantly, how all religions possess the powerful ability to unite communities.
This event brought to light the beauty of interfaith dialogue and how it instills a deeper understanding of the diverse religions present in our society.
Sara Ruggero
Year 12
Please click on this link to view the recent message from the Vatican. As it does every year during the month of fasting, the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue has released its message for Ramadan. This year’s message, signed by Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, is centred on the theme: “Christians and Muslims: What We Hope to Become Together.” The message states that both Ramadan and Lent, through their calls to devotion and self-discipline, serve as reminders that faith “is not just about outward gestures but a journey of inner conversion,” the message emphasises.
In this Jubilee Year centred on hope, the message reaffirms the Christian belief that “hope is rooted in the certainty that God’s love is stronger than any trials or obstacles.” and Faith in God, the statement continues, is “a treasure that unites us.”
“May this feast be an occasion for fraternal encounters between Muslims and Christians, in which we can celebrate together God’s goodness. Such simple but profound moments of sharing are seeds of hope that can transform our communities and our world. May our friendship be a refreshing breeze for a world that thirsts for peace and fraternity!”
