LAC LA BICHE - Every year, Muslims around the world, including those in Lac La Biche, celebrate Ramadan, a month-long observance of fasting from sunup to sundown, prayers, and helping others.
According to Imam Mohamed, the cleric of the Al Kareem Mosque in Lac La Biche, for this year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Feb. 28, with the first day of fasting on March 1.
The holy month of Ramadan, which dates to 622 A.D., begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, and ends with a celebratory meal known as Eid al-Fitr (festival of the breaking the fast). During Eid al-Fitr, Muslims gather for special prayers, exchange gifts, and share meals with family and friends.
Ramadan is based on the Islamic lunar calendar, meaning the dates begin 10 days earlier each year, and fasting is adjusted according to daylight hours.
“It will end on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025, with Eid al-Fitr likely to be observed on Sunday, March 30, 2025,” Mohamed told Lakeland This Week. “However, as always, the exact dates may vary depending on the sighting of the moon in different regions.”
Ramadan is a special month for Muslims and helps them grow closer to God through fasting, prayer and charity, said Mohamed. Fasting from dawn to sunset, he added, teaches adherents of Islam self-discipline, patience, and gratitude while strengthening their faith.
In addition to the five obligatory prayers, known in Arabic as Salah, during Ramadan, Muslims increase their acts of worship, particularly by performing Taraweeh (rest and relaxation) prayers. Mohamed explained that these are extra prayers which are offered in congregation at local mosques, and are typically held around 8 p.m.
“Ramadan is not just about refraining from food but about becoming a better person, practicing kindness, and building a stronger connection with God and the community,” he stated.
According to the Imam, most Muslims observe fasting during Ramadan. However, he confirmed, there are exceptions that apply to children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, those who are sick, as well as elderly individuals.
“Those exempted may either make up the fast later or offer an alternative, such as feeding the needy,” he said.
Throughout the holy month, the Al Kareem Mosque in Lac La Biche hosts special lectures, events, and educational programs to support spiritual growth. Many members of the local Muslim community also take part in volunteering to help prepare meals for those who are breaking their fast and also organize charitable initiatives to assist the less fortunate.
Every year, members of the mosque’s congregation, including youth, organize a charity food hamper initiative that involves preparing and distributing meals to those in need, which Mohamed said emphasizes generosity and social responsibility. Alms-giving, called Zakat in Arabic, is one of the five pillars of Islam. In addition to helping the poor and fasting, the other pillars are prayer, the declaration of faith (shahada), and pilgrimage (hajj).
“Ramadan in Lac La Biche is a deeply meaningful time for the Muslim community. Lac La Biche’s diverse and welcoming environment allows Ramadan to be a time of cultural exchange and interfaith engagement,” he said.
Danny Smaiel, a member of Lac La Biche’s Muslim community, said Ramadan is a time for Muslims to reflect and be thankful for the blessings they have in their lives, perform fasting and prayers, but also help those who are in need and struggling.
“We want to remember those folks and reach out to them during this blessed month and give alms and just share in the blessings that we’re so fortunate to have,” Smaiel said.
