RAMADAN
As the crescent moon marks the beginning of Ramadan, Muslims around the world and in Shepparton prepare for a month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual growth. This year, Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on the 1st of March 2025 and will conclude with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr on 30th of March.
Ramadan is much more than abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset. It is a time for self-reflection, increased devotion and acts of kindness. Through fasting, Muslims develop empathy for those who experience hunger daily, strengthening their resolve to help the less fortunate. Charitable giving, or zakat (the obligatory giving) and sadaqah, becomes a key focus during this month, with many contributing to local and international humanitarian efforts.
The sense of community during Ramadan is profound. Families, friends, and neighbours gather for iftar dinners, while mosques open their doors for nightly prayers and community events.
One of the most spiritually significant nights of Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr—the Night of Decree—believed to fall in the last ten nights of the month. Muslims believe that this night is better than a thousand months, and they engage in prayers, seeking forgiveness and divine mercy.
As Ramadan concludes, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyful day marked by communal prayers, festive meals, and charitable giving to those in need. It is a day that embodies the values cultivated during Ramadan: gratitude, compassion and unity.
This Ramadan, the Shepparton community is invited to join in the spirit of togetherness. The Moslem Mosque – Albanian Moslem Society at 8 Acacia Street, Shepparton, welcomes all the community to the iftar dinners every Sunday during the month of Ramadan. Everyone brings food to share, providing a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the shared values of kindness, generosity, and respect that resonate across all faiths.
Happy Ramadan to all—may this month bring peace, reflection, and a renewed sense of community to everyone.
By Imam: Hysni Merja of Shepparton
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