Letters | Time of Lent and Ramadaan

In this season of shared sacrifice, Lent and Ramadaan unite. As Ash Wednesday dawns today, Christians worldwide embark on Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting and charity. Coincidentally, Ramadaan, the Islamic Holy month of fasting, also falls during this period.

Amidst South Africa’s challenges, their shared values beckon us to act. Both Lent and Ramadaan demand willpower and sacrifice, fasting from worldly pleasures. We focus on the essence of faith: Compassion, gratitude and self-discipline.

As we converge on this shared journey, let us amplify kindness and uplift the vulnerable. Angus Buchan reminds us: “Jews, Arabs and Christians, we are all brothers through Abraham’s legacy.” Let the season inspire us to be agents of hope, feeding the hungry and supporting those in need. In Pietermaritzburg, let’s make a difference.

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Let’s support local initiatives, volunteer our help and share what we have. Support food drives, community gardens or waste pickers. Also partner with local organisations to provide resources.

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