Ramadan Reflections

Ramadan has always been a month that draws me back to what truly matters: faith, family, community, and the deep gratitude we feel for the food that sustains us. Growing up with a Lebanese father in a small town in the southern United States, those values were strengthened by the way our community came together during Ramadan. Muslims and non‑Muslims would sit side by side at iftar, sharing simple meals and conversation. Those evenings taught me that food does more than fill a plate; it builds community, even among people who may not share the same background or beliefs. 

Now living in London, thousands of miles away from where I grew up, I’ve built a new community that feels just as meaningful. The faces are different, and the setting has changed, but the importance of community is the same. Whatever your community looks like, the reflections during Ramadan are often shared: gratitude for what we have, awareness of those who do not, and a renewed commitment to generosity. 

These are the same principles that drive the work of Mary’s Meals. Across countries where Ramadan is observed, many families continue to face instability and food insecurity. In Lebanon, ongoing economic challenges have made regular meals increasingly difficult to secure. In Syria, Yemen and South Sudan conflict and rising costs put additional strain on households during a month that emphasises the importance of nourishment. 

Ramadan encourages reflection on those who experience hunger not as a choice, but as a constant challenge. The work of Mary’s Meals aligns with the values of compassion, generosity and service that define this month. 

For children in these communities, a daily school meal offers certainty and the chance to learn without the burden of hunger. As we observe Ramadan, may we extend our sense of community to children around the world who are still waiting for the security of a daily meal.  

Ramadan Mubarak to all who are marking this special month.