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Kriseman, Muslim Leaders to Host City’s First Iftar Dinner

Rick Kriseman | St. Petersburg Mayor | St. Petersburg Politics

Iftar is the meal eaten every evening during Ramadan to break the day’s fast, according to the History Channel.

ST. PETERSBURG – Mayor Rick Kriseman and Muslim leaders from throughout Tampa Bay will host St. Petersburg’s first Iftar dinner welcoming residents of all faiths to celebrate the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The event will be held June 14 at St. Petersburg’s historic Coliseum. Additional details will be announced later.

“Now more than ever, we must be expressive in our love and respect for people of all faiths,” Kriseman said. “I am excited to bring the community together to honor our Muslim brothers and sisters.”

Abdul Karim Ali, the president of the Tampa Bay Area Muslim Association, said, “We know that breaking bread together helps a community work together for a common cause, and so we thank Mayor Kriseman and his team for their leadership in ensuring that the sun shines bright on all residents and faiths in St. Petersburg.”

Ramadan, explains the History Channel, is “celebrated as the month during which Muhammad received the initial revelations of what became the Quran.

“During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk each day. They are supposed to avoid eating, drinking, smoking and sexual activity, as well as unkind or impure thoughts and words, and immoral behavior. Ramadan is a time to practice self-restraint and self-reflection. Fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the soul and have empathy for those in the world who are hungry and less fortunate. Muslims go to work and school and take care of their usual activities during Ramadan; however, some also read the entire Quran, say special prayers and attend mosques more frequently during this time.

“All Muslims who have reached puberty and are in good health are required to fast. The sick and elderly, along with travelers, pregnant women and those who are nursing are exempt, although they are supposed to make up for the missed fast days sometime in the future or help feed the poor.

“The first pre-dawn meal of the day during Ramadan is called ‘suhoor.’ Each day’s fast is broken with a meal known as ‘iftar.’ Traditionally, a date is eaten to break the fast. Iftars are often elaborate feasts celebrated with family and friends. The types of foods served vary according to culture.”

For information about St. Petersburg, go to stpete.org.

St. Petersburg | Rick Kriseman | Muslim | Ramadan | Iftar | Tampa Bay Area Muslim Association | TB Reporter

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