Ramadan is the sacred month in the Islamic calendar during which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. Each evening, the fast is broken with family and friends in a spirit of gratitude, generosity and togetherness.
It is very rare for the Christian season of Lent and Muslim month of Ramadan to overlap and it will not happen again until 2057.
The Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen Bishop of Winchester said: “In a sadly divided world it seems to me that is very important that we should sit down and eat together. Doing so doesn’t mean we agree about everything: but it is a symbol of our common humanity and our commitment to listen to one another and build not only mutual understanding but mutual respect. Few things seem to me to be more important in today’s world.”
One church member said: “This was such a joyful event, and a wonderful chance to meet new people and learn more about each other.”
In the spirit of friendship and mutual respect the Dialogue Society shared insights and reflected together on shared values of trust, unity and co-operation.
Through conversation and shared experience, participants in the Iftar meal were able to explore practical ways of fostering understanding and building community.
Also present at the meal were the Mayor and Mayoress of Winchester, two Police Superintendents from Winchester and Eastleigh, Interim Dean of Winchester Canon Roland Riem, and university representatives.