PORTLAND, Ore. — People of the Muslim faith all over the world are observing Ramadan, a religious holiday that lasts for 30 days. Believers fast from sunrise to sunset, and typically break their fast together in what’s called an “iftar.” The practice is meant to strengthen the person’s bond with God, work on self-improvement, while also promoting community.
This Saturday, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Portland Chapter is hosting a first of its kind virtual interfaith iftar.
Harris Zafar, spokesperson for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, said virtual meetings are being used in the corporate world to keep colleagues together and socially to keep families and friends connected.
“Why can’t we use it to connect spiritually as well across spiritual communities and say as Portlanders we’re honoring the Ramadan iftar and we’re coming together to say that the power of prayer and the power of togetherness can get us through this,” said Zafar.
He said faith and community leaders will be attending. In addition to Imam Azam Akram from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, speakers will include Pastor David Knapp from St. James Lutheran Church, Cantor Baruch Morris of P’Nai Or Jewish Renewal Community, as well as Representative Suzanne Bonamici and Portland Police Chief Jami Resch.
“It’s really about how do we see each other from different spiritual branches, but still part of the same tree of humanity, and finding ways to comfort and support one another at this time,” Zafar said
Each person will have five minutes to speak after a short five-minute video introduction about the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, which this year is celebrating its 100th anniversary. It’s the first Muslim organization to hit the 100-year milestone in the United States.
The virtual interfaith iftar begins at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday. The program will last for just under an hour. You can find a link to the event on the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Portland Chapter’s Facebook page or click on this link.