Local Muslims Celebrate Ramadan – Fast-a-Thon Returns After COVID Hiatus

April 8, 2022

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Local Muslims began observing the holy month of Ramadan on April 2, 2022, fasting from sunrise to sunset.

Markaz ul Islam, the Islamic Centre of Fort McMurray is delighted to host their annual Fast a Thon, inviting guests of different faiths to fast with Muslims.

Last held in 2019, the event, back after a COVID hiatus takes place on April 22, 2022, at the Father Mercredi High School Cafeteria at 8 p.m. Entry is free, but donations are encouraged for the Wood Buffalo Food Bank.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and is a spiritual time of increased prayers, and generosity. And, yes, fasting requires not even water. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid-ul-Fitar. It is a three-day festival and will be held on either May 2 or 3 depending on the lunar calendar.

Started in 2017, this is the fourth annual Fast a Thon. This year’s event is hosted in collaboration with Islamic Relief Canada. The tagline is “Go Hungry for a Day So Someone Else Doesn’t Have To.” Fasting on that day begins at 3:51 a.m., and ends at 8:50 p.m. Naseem Abdo, Markaz volunteer is leading the Fast a Thon. He explains more.

“We invite our friends of different faiths to fast for a day and break their fast with the Muslim community. All participants are also encouraged to give a cash donation to the Food Bank, no amount is too small. There will be a short presentation about Ramadan as education is particularly important when it comes to increasing unity.”

Guests will be treated to a veritable feast from a variety of countries, and learn more about the holy month, which teaches about self-restraint, and solidarity with those suffering from food insecurity daily.

Dan Edwards, Executive Director, Food Bank applauded Markaz ul Islam.

“We are so thankful for events like this. They encourage others to experience something that our clients face regularly and is sometimes forgotten, food insecurity. It is a powerful demonstration; the dedication of the participants is inspiring. It also educates those unfamiliar with Ramadan, helping make Fort McMurray an even more amazing place to live. The funds and food raised will go towards our traditional hamper program and the purchase of Halal meats for our clients with those dietary needs. We are really looking forward to the event to thank everyone for this amazing support.”

Mohamed Ali Al-Zabidi, President, Markaz ul Islam, says, “Fast a Thon has been one of the most successful Markaz outreach initiatives where we invite the residents of Fort McMurray to learn about fasting during the month of Ramadan, try to experience fasting and donate to a good cause. Guests will see firsthand why Ramadan is an amazing spiritual journey that Muslims experience every year.”

Registration is required to attend the event. Click here.

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Kiran Malik-Khan

Kiran is a national award-winning communications specialist, freelance journalist, and social media consultant. She loves telling community stories, and is a strong advocate for inclusion, diversity, women’s rights, and multiculturalism. Got story ideas? Contact her via Twitter: @KiranMK0822.