Liverpool: Catholic school hosts Iftar meal for Muslim community

The Academy of St Francis of Assisi in Kensington, Liverpool, held its first-ever Iftar meal for Muslim students and families within the school community.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn until sunset, culminating in the breaking of the fast at sunset with a meal known as Iftar.

The Iftar dinner provided an opportunity for members of the school community to come together, share a meal, and learn about the traditions and significance of Ramadan. Typically, the breaking of the fast begins with a date and a glass of water or juice, and then worshippers will gather to pray. Former head boy, Mazen Daham, led the call to prayer, with male and female prayer rooms available for guests.

Following the prayers, attendees were treated to a delicious array of traditional dishes, including contributions from families who brought homemade specialities to share. Additionally, local businesses such as Kebabish Original, located on Lodge Lane, and Fozia's Kashmiri Kitchen, situated on Picton Road, generously provided food.

During the evening, students and their families shared personal reflections on what Ramadan means to them, fostering a deeper understanding of their faith and traditions among guests.

This significant event marked a milestone in The Academy of St Francis of Assisi's ongoing commitment to celebrating cultural diversity.

Mrs Jo Leech, headteacher of The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, said: "As a Christian school, we hold dear to our school value of respect for all. We recognise the significance of Ramadan for many of our Muslim students and families, and we believe that opportunities like this, where we gather as a community, are an essential part of our school ethos.

"By hosting this Iftar meal, we aim to create a space where people of all faiths and backgrounds can come together and share the values we cherish collectively.

The Academy of St Francis of Assisi is a coeducational joint-faith Roman Catholic and Church of England academy in Kensington, Liverpool, and is part of the All Saints Multi Academy Trust.

For more information visit: www.asfaonline.org. Further details about All Saints Multi Academy Trust can be found at www.allsaintsmat.org.