November 8, 2002

Recognizing Ramadan
MGHers of the Muslim faith were on hand Oct. 31 to help educate the MGH community about the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. At an information table in the Main Corridor (below), Firdosh Pathan, RPh, of the MGH Pharmacy, and other MGHers offered information about Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During this month, which began Nov. 6, healthy Muslim adults and many children observe fasting from dawn until sunset for 29 or 30 days. The purpose of Ramadan is for Muslims to acquire self-control and God-consciousness by eliminating impurities from the body. At the end of the holy month, Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival of fast breaking.

During Ramadan, group prayers will take place in the Muslim prayer room on Founders 109. For more information regarding prayer times or to learn more about Ramadan, send e-mail to fpathan@partners.org.