Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

During the recent Iftar dinner at St. Margaret Mary Parish in Winter Park, Christians and Muslims gathered to exchange blessings and celebrate shared values of faith and friendship. The event coincided with the overlapping observance of Ramadan and Lent, bringing together 120 participants in a spirit of mutual respect.

Meghan Collins, Peace and Justice ministry coordinator, described the meal as “an opportunity to learn more about each other’s culture, traditions and religion. It is an opportunity to develop a sense of friendship and solidarity.”

Ramadan involves fasting from food and drink during daylight hours as part of Sawm, the Fourth Pillar of Islam. The fast-breaking meal, or Iftar, was supported by the Atlantic Institute of Central Florida. Mustafa Yucekaya, executive director for Central Florida, noted the joy found in sharing meals: “While you are sharing the meal with your friends you have a lot of joy. You’re sharing what you have.” He emphasized understanding the needs of others during both Ramadan and Lent.

Msgr. Richard Walsh from St. Margaret Mary Parish highlighted how food fosters connection: “All you have to do is look around and see people interacting with each other. Food has a way of bringing people together.” He also referenced a document from the Second Vatican Council promoting interfaith dialogue: “All men form but one community... enter into discussion and collaboration with members of other religions,” an objective realized through this gathering.