StG students learned about the cultural importance of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr during a Wednesday, March 18th, Community Time gathering.

A panel of StG teachers, parents and community members spoke to students about the importance of these major holidays to the local and global Muslim community. 

During Wednesday's gathering, students heard about Ramadan and Eid through a community lens. Led by Chaplain Lauren Dunn and organized by Parents Group Community Belonging Officer Jesse George, the assembly brought together a panel of StG teachers, parents and special guest Dr. Hakm Murad.

Together, they guided students in grades 1–8 through the significance of Ramadan, the practices it involves and the values it emphasizes for the estimated two billion Muslims worldwide who practice this faith. 

The program began with French Teacher Fionn Hunter-Green reading "The Gift of Ramadan," offering students a child’s perspective on the month and grounding the conversation in family, reflection and support.

Dr. Murad then introduced students to the life of the Prophet Muhammad, highlighting his early life before becoming a prophet. Throughout the conversation, students were introduced to key vocabulary — including the words "Quran,"  "suhoor,"  "iftar," and "Eid."

First grade teacher Fatima Waheed expanded on the meaning of Ramadan, emphasizing that it is about more than fasting. She spoke about the importance of self-discipline, reflection, charity and treating others with dignity — values that resonate across cultures and faith traditions.

The panel discussion continued with StG parents Dr. Lena Al-Dujaili and Dr. Ahmed Mohiuddin, who shared how Eid marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated in different ways across West and South Asia. Dr. Mohiuddin spoke about the deep sense of connection he feels during Ramadan and Eid, noting how these traditions tie closely to family, identity and culture.

Students asked questions they had prepared before the assembly before participating in a closing “turn and talk” activity. Representatives from each grade then shared their responses aloud, earning small prizes like ma'amoul date cookies and prayer beads.

Along the way, students learned:

• Ramadan follows a lunar calendar and begins about 10–11 days earlier each year

• The pre-dawn meal is called "suhoor," and the evening meal is "iftar"

• Ramadan commemorates the month the Quran was revealed

• Kindness and dignity toward others are as central to the observance as fasting

Community Time at St. George’s provides space for experiences like this — where students come together to learn, ask questions and grow in understanding. Through chapel and special assemblies, students explore the shared values and traditions of the Abrahamic faiths to build their sense of belonging across religions.