Posted February 26, 2025

Archbishop Pérez sent a letter Feb. 26 to the Muslim Faith Community on the occasion of Ramadan. Ramadan, one of the holiest months of the year for Muslims, begins Saturday, Mar. 1 and ends Mar. 31 with the Eid al-Fitr holiday.

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Dear Friends of the Muslim Faith Tradition,

Together with the people of the Catholic Church in Philadelphia, I send warm greetings of friendship as you mark the observance of Ramadan.

In 2019, the “Document on Human Fraternity” signed by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of al-Azhar, Ahmed el-Tayeb, stated “that authentic teachings of religions invite us to remain rooted in the values of peace; to defend the values of mutual understanding, human fraternity and harmonious coexistence; to re-establish wisdom, justice and love; and to reawaken religious awareness among young people.”

I share their vision of mutual deep respect and friendship between Christians and Muslims, rooted in hopes for peace in a time when conflict around the world results in suffering, death, and devastation for many people.

May your month-long vigil of prayer, fasting, and works of mercy be fruitful. May you share compassionate love with all those you encounter as instruments of peace.

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia