Ramadan greeting

Ms Charlotte Avery - Headmistress

"We are currently in the Islamic month of Ramadan which, for Muslims, is a month of prayer, fasting, almsgiving and spiritual reflection. As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, Ramadan is an opportunity for Muslims to renew their commitment to their faith in God and to the principles of charity and compassion.

During this academic year, we have been focusing on ‘Celebrating Diversity’ as one of the key characteristics of a Mary Ward school. Acknowledging the devotion and example of some of our Muslim students and friends at this time provides an opportunity to reflect again on how we are made strong by our respect for diversity and not in spite of our differences. We remember, also, how fortunate we are to live in a society where all people of faith have the right to worship freely and expect to be treated with respect. We remember religious believers throughout the world who practise their faith and turn to God under the tyranny of persecution.

In his Ramadan message three years ago, Pope Francis expressed the hope that “all Christians and Muslims may be true promoters of mutual respect and friendship, in particular through education.”

The Pope also said, “It is not possible to establish true links with God while ignoring other people. Hence it is important to intensify dialogue between the various religions.” In relation to dialogue between Christians and Muslims, he added, “We are called to respect the religion of the other, its teachings, its symbols, its values. It is clear that when we show respect for the religion of our neighbours or when we offer them our good wishes on the occasion of a religious celebration, we simply wish to share their joy without making reference to the content of their religious convictions… We all know that mutual respect is fundamental in any human relationship, especially among people who profess religious belief. In this way sincere and lasting friendship can grow.”

This year Ramadan brings a particular seasonal challenge as it is taking place through the longest days of the summer. But we hope that this discipline and self-denial will bring growth to those observing it and we wish our Muslim students and friends peace and blessings during their holy month, sharing in Pope Francis’ prayer that their lives may glorify the Almighty and give joy to those around them."