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GLENDALE HEIGHTS, Ill. (WLS) — This week, communities throughout the Chicagoland area are drawing closer to their faith as two major religious observances align. Muslims began the holy month of Ramadan on the same day Christians marked the commencement of Lent on Ash Wednesday.
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Throughout Chicago, individuals paused their daily routines to receive ashes for Ash Wednesday. Many made their way to Union Station in the morning, while others attended services at Holy Name Cathedral in the heart of downtown.
The start of Lent offers a time for introspection and spiritual renewal over the next 40 days.
“There’s so much happening in our lives right now, so I’m praying for my family and myself, and striving to be a better person,” shared Gloria Albiniak, who participated in the Ash Wednesday tradition.
In Glendale Heights, Julie Knox, associated with St. Petronille Catholic Church, noted that they were preparing to welcome more parishioners later in the evening to observe Ash Wednesday.
“It’s really humbling because we’re all sinners and we all have things we have to repent for,” Knox said. “We focus on more prayer, giving money and your time, and doing something charitable, and some people give something up for Lent.”
This year, Lent lines right up with Ramadan, as Muslims are now starting their own fast from dawn until dusk over the next 30 days. People of both religions are fasting in some way to purify themselves and get closer to their faith.
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“It’s coming together sometimes in all faith communities,” Atya Kazmi said. “They know the importance of fasting and how it helps us to be better versions of ourselves.”
Muslims also use this holy month to rely on their daily prayer, get closer to God and increase their sense of community to help others.
“Ramadan is so much more than starving ourselves because it is hard,” said Asma Jarad with ICNA relief. “It is hunger, no coffee, no water, no drink, but it’s about thinking of what we need in life. We need food but we don’t need it every single hour.”
ICNA relief of Chicago handed out hundreds of boxes of food and essentials to families in need. They also hosted a similar event Tuesday night in Rogers Park, as organizers say this is what this month is all about.
“It’s sad to see that there is a need but at the same time it makes us happy to know we can serve,” Jarad said. “What we’re doing is helping.”
After 30 days, Muslims will celebrate the end of the holy month with the Eid holiday. For Christians, Lent will be capped off with Easter on April 5.
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