19 April, 2023
Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It is a sacred month in Islam during which Muslims fast from dawn until dusk, breaking their fast at sunset with a joyous meal shared with family and friends. Iftar is the name of the fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims in Ramadan at the time of adhan (call to prayer) of the Maghrib prayer (a mandatory Muslim prayer after sunset and before the start of night).
We extend a warm thank you to Mr Mahmut Gunaydin, Director of the Dialogue Society Oxford Branch for inviting us to the 2023 Ramadan Interfaith Iftar at Mansfield College. The theme of this inclusive event was ‘Ramadan is Community’.
Principal of Mansfield College Professor Helen Mounthfield, KC, warmly welcomed the audience. Her opening speech was followed by a Quran recitation, and a greeting from Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire. A carefully crafted entertainment programme included demonstrations of Marbling Art by Melek Koc, and Music Performance by Turkish Classical Musician Betul Kilinc. After the call to Prayer and breaking the fast, a traditional Oxford college dinner was served for over 200 guests. Post-dinner entertainment included a Kahoot Quiz and the announcement of the quiz winners. And finally, our generous hosts gifted everyone a box of Turkish Delights!
We felt a great spirit of harmony and are grateful to our hosts for promoting unity. All Kudos to the Dialogue Society and Mansfield College for hosting a hugely successful interfaith iftar.
The Photo Gallery
