Praying during Ramadan

Ramadan fasting ends in a feast! In a spirit of festivity, the Muslim community gathers at the mosque for special prayers and a communal meal, and money is given to the poor.As Ramadan comes to an end, continue praying for your Muslim friends, neighbours and those who worship at the mosque nearest your church.

The social cohesion of Muslim communities may seem enviable to Western Christians. The negative side of cohesion can be such strong pressure to attend mosque and conform to communal norms that individuals feel trapped and experience hopelessness, even despair.

Learning, questioning, and debating threaten the unity and stability of the Muslim community. Some Muslims who choose to explore freely may find themselves at odds with their leaders.

“The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). Jesus said to “seek first [the Father’s] kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things [clothing, food, drink] will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).

Muslims believe the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Muhammad on this night and that itis the only night when sins can be forgiven and prayers answered. They pray for mercy, forgiveness, and salvation. Some stay awake praying all night.

Hamas’ savage attack on Israel on October 7 stirred up Islamic zeal among many Muslims. Pro-Palestinian protests and antisemitic acts fed bysocial media immediately erupted around the world, including in Canada, drawing attention, especially of younger generations attracted to causes, to Islam.

The book of Acts tells the history of congregations being set up around the Mediterranean and into Africa. Paul writes to a congregation in Colossae about the Gospel “bearing fruit and increasing” in the “whole world” (Colossians 1:3-6). It’s happening now in Canada!

The familiar celebrations and sociableness of Ramadan can tempt new Jesus-followers from Islam to join the festivities. Some find themselves being drawn back into Islam.

Canada is home to many Christian refugees who fled persecution in Muslim-majority nations, as well as those who chose to relocate to escape Islamic oppression.

Muslims are convinced they have the truth and know the right path. Even after a long journey ofdiscovery, it is extremely difficult to make the decision to leave Islam to follow Jesus.