Non-Muslims witness special Iftar open day |21 July 2014

The Islamic Society of Seychelles organised a special Iftar open day on Saturday at the Mosque on Francis Rachel Street where the non-Muslims had a chance to witness the believers break their fast during this month of Ramadan.

Iftar is the meal served at the end of the day during Ramadan to break the day's fast. During the open day the Muslims took water and dates as their meal for Iftar. And Iftar takes place at sunset with the Azaan (call to prayer) and is then followed by the Maghrib, the prayer at sunset.

Among the invited guests at the special ceremony were Designated Minister Vincent Meriton, who is also the Minister for Social Affairs, Community Development and Sports, Minister for Tourism and Culture Alain St Ange, and the president of the Court of Appeal Francis Macgregor.

Also present at the ceremony were two overseas Imams from Saudi Arabia and the Maldives who joined in with the Seychellois Imam to recite the Qur’an, prayers and address those present.

The guests learned more about the Ramadan which is the fasting month for Muslims observed on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The annual fast of Ramadan is considered one of the five "pillars" of Islam. Muslims who are physically able are required to fast each day of the entire month, from sunrise to sunset. The evenings are spent enjoying family and community meals, engaging in prayer and spiritual reflection, and reading from the Qur’an.

“I thank the Islamic Society of Seychelles for offering the non-Muslims the chance to have an insight of what goes on during the Ramadan. Religion is a part of the Seychellois culture and I am pleased that here in Seychelles we have a solid multi-religious group,” said Minister St Ange.

He took the opportunity to trace the history of Islam here in Seychelles and how its population is growing.

“I like to wish you a very early Eid and hope that you have a fruitful Ramadan,” the minister told the congregation.
Non-Muslims who wished to observe the prayers could do so by standing at the back of the Mosque.