Islamic Relief Canada’s Grand Iftars return to B.C. this long weekend

ISLAMIC Relief Canada’s annual cross-country Grand Iftars are returning to BC this Sunday in Surrey.

Iftar is the meal following a fast, whether it be during the month of Ramadan or other times throughout the year.

Ramadan is one of the holiest months in Islam, where Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset. Charity, a pillar in the faith, is also a large part of the month.

In line with other Islamic Relief iftars happening across the country that focus on various initiatives, the Surrey Grand Iftar will be fundraising for programs supporting orphans around the world.

“It is such a relief that we get to experience Ramadan as a community once again,” said Reyhana Patel, the Director of Communications and Government Relations at Islamic Relief Canada. “Our fundraising efforts nationwide throughout this month will focus on a variety of initiatives including orphan support, countries with humanitarian crises and feeding the poor.”

This year the keynote address will be made by Ustadh Abdelrahman Murphy from the US, who will speak on the spiritual significance of charity.

The Surrey Grand Iftar will take place on April 17 at Riverside Signature Banquet Hall. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with the event set to begin at 7:15 p.m. They will break our fast at 8:30 p.m. and conclude the event at 10:30 p.m.