The event was attended by 140 community members, including 48 external guests and seven distinguished speakers. The gathering featured insights from religious and community leaders, who reflected on the role of fasting as a means of self-discipline, reflection, and empathy for those in need.
Highlighting the significance of the 'Fasting in my Religion' event, Imam Atif Zahid, Missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Victoria stated,
"This program has become a permanent feature of our Ramadan schedule. It allows us to invite different faith groups, community members, colleagues, neighbours, and friends. It enables us to portray to them the true and peaceful teachings of Islam."
Hon. Evan Mulholland MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, praised the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for their contributions to Australian society.
"The Ahmadiyya Muslims are not just a faith group but a shining example of unity, service, and dedication to the greater good. Whether it's celebrating Australia Day, Clean Up Australia Day, or engaging in charitable works, their spirit of giving is noticed and truly appreciated," he said.
Mayor Steve Abboushi, Mayor of the City of Melton echoed these sentiments, recognising the Ahmadiyya community's commitment to social welfare and community service.
"The Ahmadiyya Muslim community members are proud Australian citizens who work hard to make a difference in our city. They are known as peace-loving, God-fearing individuals, whose motto - 'Love for All, Hatred for None' - is one we are proud to see in our city," he remarked.
The discussions highlighted how fasting fosters self-discipline, spirituality, and a deeper connection to the struggles of those less fortunate.
Imam Atif Zahid, in his concluding remarks presented a comprehensive perspective on fasting in Islam and how it fosters a sense of spiritual discipline, universal balance, and community harmony.
"Ramadan is a lunar month, so it keeps changing around the world in relation to the solar month. This year, Ramadan started on the 2nd of March; last year, it was on the 13th of March. Every year, Ramadan moves back by 10 to 12 days, depending on the movement of the moon. This creates a universal balance among believers worldwide, and when the cycle is completed in 36 years, Muslims would have fasted on every single day of the year," he explained.
He further highlighted how this cycle allows Muslims to experience different seasons while fasting, reinforcing gratitude and appreciation for nature's blessings. "Another benefit of this cycle is that Muslims get to enjoy the different kinds of fruits and vegetables that grow in different seasons," he added.
The guests then joined the Ahmadiyya Muslim community in experiencing the Iftar tradition firsthand, breaking the fast together before sharing a communal dinner. The gathering provided an opportunity for attendees to continue conversations, observe prayers, attend a Quran exhibition, exchange reflections, and strengthen interfaith relationships.
Reflecting on the significance of the evening, Rabbi Ralph Genende OAM, Interfaith and Community Liaison for the Australia Israel & Jewish Affairs Council, commended the efforts of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in bringing together people of different faith groups.
"This was an incredibly warm and welcoming community. At a time when Muslim and Jewish relationships are strained in many places, this event demonstrated that we can sit together, learn from one another, and build bridges of understanding."
The 'Fasting in My Religion' event, organised by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Melbourne West chapter, once again served as a beacon of faith, dialogue, and unity, reinforcing the power of shared experiences in bringing diverse communities together.
About us:
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a very peaceful, law abiding, nonviolent and loving community. Founded in 1889, the community spans more than 200 countries with membership exceeding tens of millions. It is the leading Islamic organisation to categorically reject terrorism in any form. Today, it continues to be an advocate for universal human rights and protection of religious and other minorities. It champions the empowerment and education of women. It's members are among the most law-abiding, educated and engafed Muslims in the world.
