Ramadan in Milton 2024: A time for reflection, devotion, and community

Ramadan is a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by Muslims around the world. This year, Ramadan begins on March 11 and ends on April 9. During this time, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. But Ramadan is much more than just a period of abstention. It is a time for deep reflection, devotion, and community.

For Muslims, Ramadan is a time to strengthen their relationship with Allah (God) and reflect on their own spiritual journey. Through fasting, prayer, and acts of charity, Muslims seek to purify their hearts and minds and become closer to Allah. The fast is not just about abstaining from food and drink, but also from negative thoughts and behaviors. It is a time to focus on positive actions, such as kindness, generosity, and forgiveness.

Ramadan is also a time for community. Muslims often gather in mosques or community centers to break their fast together in the evening. This meal, called iftar, is often a festive occasion, with families and friends coming together to share food and conversation.

After Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the month-long fast. This is followed by Eid al-Adha, which commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. Both Eids are joyous occasions where Muslims come together to pray, share food, and exchange gifts.

In the Milton area, over 50 Muslim families practice fasting during the month of Ramadan. The Milton Muslim Neighbors (MMN), part of the Milton Interfaith Association (MICA) and Milton Change Maker, organize an annual Ramadan Iftar with local Milton families and runs an annual food drive in collaboration with all Milton Public School, First Parish, and Congregation of Beth Shalom, and donations go to Quincy Interfaith for people in need.

This year, Milton Muslim will celebrate Eid on April 21 at Cunningham Hall, that includes social gathering over food and kids activities.

Collicot School principal Holly Concannon, picture with students Yaseen and Rayhana Kassem

The Town of Milton also celebrated Ramadan’s arrival with beautiful lights strings at Manning Park that was illuminated Saturday evening on March 10. Milton families and guests enjoyed some snacks, cookies with balloons for the kids while counting down for the light illumination at sunset. These activities showcase the sense of community that is so integral to the month of Ramadan.

Cunnigham school assistant principal Andy Young and administrative assistant Julie McGettrick

While the physical demands of fasting can be challenging, many Muslims find that Ramadan is a time of great spiritual growth and renewal. It is a time to reconnect with one’s faith, one’s community, and one’s self. As we approach the start of Ramadan, let us embrace this opportunity to reflect, to give, and to grow. Ramadan Mubarak!

Contributed by Amal Kimawi