Ramadan and Lent overlap highlights shared practices, says imam

Muslims observed the first full day of Ramadan the same day Christians marked Ash Wednesday in Calgary, the first such overlap in more than 30 years; local faith leaders said the coincidence has prompted dialogue and highlighted commonalities between the two faiths.

Muslims in Calgary observed their first full day of Ramadan on Wednesday, which coincided with Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent for many Christians. Such an overlap is unusual and is reported as the first in more than 30 years. Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, while Lent begins in February or March ahead of Easter. Local religious leaders described the coincidence as an opportunity for conversation and connection. Key points: - Muslims observed the first full day of Ramadan at the same time as Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent for many Christians. - The overlap is reported as the first in more than 30 years, reflecting differences in how the two observances are timed. - Lent is described as a 40-day season with core practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving; it begins with Ash Wednesday. - During Ramadan, practising Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset for about 29 or 30 days and break the fast at sunset with iftar. - Statistics Canada figures cited in the article note that about 44 per cent of Calgary's population is Christian (around 20 per cent Catholic) and 7.4 per cent is Muslim. - Dean Chris Dowdeswell and Imam Syed Soharwardy are quoted saying the coincidence has encouraged visits, face-to-face conversations and recognition of shared principles. Summary: Community leaders said the simultaneous observance has opened space for interfaith dialogue and highlighted overlapping religious practices. Further public developments or planned joint events are undetermined at this time.