News and Events

News Releases

Cardinal Blase Cupich to Deliver Remarks at the 21st Annual Muslim-Catholic Iftar on Friday, May 25 at the Mecca Center in Willowbrook

During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslim communities in and around Chicago have graciously opened their Iftar meal to people of other religious traditions

Chicago, IL (May 22, 2018) – Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, will offer remarks at the 21st Annual Muslim-Catholic Iftar dinner and program on Friday, May 25, 2018 at the Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street in Willowbrook beginning at 6:30 p.m. The Annual Interfaith Iftar, sponsored by the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC), commemorates breaking the Ramadan fast, observing maghrib prayer and sharing a festive dinner and program. Ramadan 2018 began in the evening of Tuesday, May 15 and ends the evening of June 14.

“Gathering for the annual Iftar is a wonderful occasion for Catholics to grow in our understanding of Islam and friendship with the Muslim community in Chicago,” said Cardinal Cupich. “It is my hope that this gathering will serve to deepen the strong relationship the Archdiocese of Chicago has with the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, and offer an opportunity to consider how we might jointly address issues of common concern in the future.” 

This year’s program, “Overcoming Hate through Acts of Faith,” will include brief remarks by Cardinal Cupich, Bishop R. Daniel Conlon from the Diocese of Joliet and representatives from the CIOGC. Reverend David Jones, pastor of St. Benedict the African Church in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, and Dr. Zulfiqar Ali Shah, religious director of the Islamic Society of Milwaukee, will provide keynote addresses.  After the program concludes at sunset, there will be a prayer followed by the breaking of the fast with the Iftar dinner compliments of the CIOGC. Admission to the Iftar is by invitation only due to the limited number of seats available.

Considered the holiest month of the year for Muslims, Ramadan is a time of increased spiritual reflection with an increased focus on prayer and worship. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset as a means of learning self-control, gratitude and compassion for those less fortunate. For many of those observing Ramadan, it is a time to become closer to God, to spend more time with one’s family and to give to those in need.