The Archdiocese of Chicago will join with the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC) for the 24th Annual Muslim-Catholic Iftar dinner and program on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. The event, which will take place at the Islamic Foundation North in Libertyville, marks a day's fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, expressed the significance of the event, stating, "The annual iftar meal offers Catholics and Muslims a wonderful chance to renew and develop our longstanding friendship in Metropolitan Chicago." He highlighted the unique opportunity for both communities to discuss their commitments to prayer, fasting, and charitable giving during the overlapping Lent and Ramadan periods this year.

Dr. Abdulgany Hamadeh, chairman of CIOGC, emphasized the importance of the interfaith iftar, which commemorates breaking the Ramadan fast, observing maghrib prayer, and sharing a festive dinner and program. The evening's theme, "Healing Through Kindness," will be reflected upon by Bishop Mark Bartosic of the Archdiocese of Chicago and Imam Azfar Uddin of IFN.

Ramadan, considered the holiest month for Muslims, is a time of increased spiritual reflection, charitable giving, and prayer. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset as a practice of self-control, gratitude, and compassion. The month is an opportunity for individuals to draw closer to God, spend time with family, and support those in need.

The fasting period for Ramadan in 2024 began on March 11 or March 12 and will conclude on the evening of April 8 or April 9, depending on the sighting of the moon. Media interested in covering the iftar event are requested to RSVP to the CIOGC contact provided.