This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the 18th of February and continue for a month. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, beginning the day with a pre-dawn meal and ending fasting at sunset, called (iftar). The shared breaking of the fast promotes family unity and community cohesion.
For Fouad Hassan, Islamic Society of Melbourne Eastern Region Inc (ISOMER) President, "Ramadan is a sacred period in the Islamic calendar dedicated to fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. It is a time for spiritual renewal, moral discipline, and heightened awareness of social responsibility and compassion towards those in need".
The Islamic Society of Melbourne Eastern Region Inc (ISOMER) is a not-for-profit organisation established in the mid-1980s by local Muslim residents to support their religious, social, and community needs. ISOMER serves a culturally diverse congregation and welcomes worshippers from both the local area and surrounding municipalities.
ISOMER operates a mosque that is based in Lysterfield that provides prayer services and Islamic education programs for people of all ages. The organisation also manages a 50-bed aged care facility on the same site, open to all members of the community regardless of religious background. The facility is set within five acres of landscaped gardens, offering residents a tranquil and supportive environment.
Fouad has shared by "understanding and respecting that Muslims are fasting during daylight hours is a simple and meaningful way to show support".
Community members are encouraged to attend the open iftar events hosted by various mosques, particularly on the weekends, and people of all faiths are warmly welcome to participate.
Visit ISOMER's website for more information.
