Ramadan, known as the Islamic holy month of fasting, is celebrated by Muslims worldwide and is now underway. Symons Valley United Church in the northwest and Airdrie United Church are opening their doors for nightly Ramadan prayers.
"This is a unique example of Christians and Muslims accepting each other and showing tolerance," said Syed Soharwardy, head imam of Al-Madinah Calgary Islamic Centre.
Soharwardy estimates the number of Islamic followers in Calgary to be 85,000. Al-Madinah has a congregation of about 2,000 and can't accommodate all the worshippers at one time.
He said the two United ministers didn't hesitate to say yes when the churches were approached about lending space during Ramadan.
"We consulted with our congregation and they were so happy and very thankful to the church for allowing them to use the church for Muslim prayers for one month," the imam said.
Rev. Dave Pollard of Airdrie United Church said his members were pleased to help out.
The church is renting out space in its Christian Education Building that is used by a variety of groups.
"We have a long history of being rented out as a gathering place," said Pollard. "Within the changing demographics of our society, to be able to extend a hand to any group or organization to gather helps us broker understanding."
Rick Stephenson, a spokesman for Symons Valley United Church, said the church has a multi-use facility that is being offered for the Ramadan nightly prayers.
"When our minister was approached about offering space, he welcomed it," Stephenson said of Rev. David Drake.
Stephenson added the opportunity was embraced as a positive one for both religious communities.
Those who participate in Ramadan refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset, which can be up to 19 hours, Soharwardy explained.
"It's definitely a challenge. It gives Muslims a first-hand experience of being hungry and thirsty."
This is especially pertinent because of the recent flooding in Pakistan, the imam pointed out.
Another practice during Ramadan is Fitra: a mandatory offering of $7 per man, woman and child to charity.
Al-Madinah is accepting donations to the Calgary Food Bank and will prepare dishes throughout the month at Al-Madinah.
"Everyday at sunset, we'll have food for everybody regardless of his or her religion. Whether you're fasting or not, you're still welcome," said Soharwardy.
Because Islam follows a lunar calendar, the fast moves 10 days forward every year. Some Muslims started Ramadan on Wednesday at dawn while others began Thursday at dawn.
Source: The Calgary Herald