Ramadan Ends and Eid al-Fitr Celebration Begins

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which began on May 26th, ends today, June 24th, and this evening is the beginning of the three day celebration Eid al-Fitr, the “feast of breaking of the fast”.

During Ramadan Muslims commemorate of the revelation of the Quran to the prophet Muhammad, and its observance is very important in Islamic belief. The observance is marked by daytime fasting, spiritual reflection and charitable giving.

Islamic Association of Central Connecticut (IACC) has been holding a fundraising effort during Ramadan in support of the work of the Masjid Al-Taqwa (Taqwa Mosque) on Arch Street in New Britain.

The IACC, in its fundraising appeal said, “You all surely know that Masjid Al-Taqwa was established mainly as a haven and shelter for all of us: men, women, boys, girls, the young and the elderly. However, our Masjid cannot continue to run without your generosity. Truly, the Masjid needs your support in a way it never has before.”

The Masjid Al-Taqwa/IACC Facebook page say that.

We serve a community in New Britain, CT that is comprised of Muslims from Yemen, Sudan, Morocco, Pakistan, South East Asia, and other muslim countries. Our community consists of approximately 300-400 families in the immediate area. We are located about 2 miles from Central Connecticut State University and we draw Muslims from surrounding towns including West Hartford, Newington, Farmington, Berlin, and other areas.

Eid al-Fitr, beginning this evening, is a celebration marked by prayers, feasting, charity, gift-giving and dressing in attractive clothing, with different traditions in different countries.

Different traditions mark Eid with family and community celebrations in different ways. In many countries, Eid is a major public holiday. In some countries, and in New York City, schools are closed in observance of Eid al-Fitr.