By Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
Muslims in the Municipality of Lakeshore are celebrating Ramadan, gathering with family, friends, and neighbours to mark the holy month despite the absence of a local mosque.
In recent years, dozens of Muslim families have moved to Lakeshore, a growing community east of Windsor. While the municipality does not have a mosque within its boundaries, residents travel to Windsor or Chatham to attend prayers and connect with a larger congregation.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a time for fasting, prayer, and charity. From dawn to sunset, observers refrain from eating or drinking, breaking their fast with a meal called iftar. The fast is meant to cultivate spiritual discipline and empathy for those in need.
Nadeem Aslam, who immigrated from Pakistan to Canada in 2002, said he cherishes Ramadan for its emphasis on faith, reflection, and community. He landed in Toronto and moved to the Lakeshore area during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He enjoys spending time outdoors and works at a local bakery in Tecumseh. He is grateful to see that his neighbours greeted him for Ramadan, a happy surprise.
“Ramadan is not just about fasting; it’s about gratitude, patience, and giving back,” Aslam said. “Even though we don’t have a mosque nearby, we’ve created a close-knit group. We invite each other for iftar, share meals, and make sure no one feels alone.”
Ramadan lasts for approximately 30 days, beginning in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food and drink.
Exemptions are made for children, pregnant or nursing women, travellers, and those who are ill. Along with abstaining from food and drink, Muslims also avoid smoking, sexual activity, and negative behaviours throughout the month.
Asma Bensalem, who moved to Lakeshore from Morocco with her family in 2023, also finds the experience enriching. For her, Ramadan is a time to strengthen bonds with her neighbours.
“This is our second Ramadan in Canada, where we are away from a large Muslim community, but we’ve found kindness and warmth here,” Bensalem said. “Our non-Muslim neighbours have been incredibly supportive, even joining us for iftar and asking about our traditions. It makes us feel welcome.”
Bensalem enjoys volunteering with friends at a local church and is grateful for the opportunities to engage with the community. “We are all created by God, and Canada is a great place to worship and live in peace and harmony,” she said.
The purpose of fasting extends beyond mere physical restraint. It seeks to strengthen one’s relationship with Allah, encourage personal growth, and nurture compassion for others.
While some families travel to Windsor’s mosques for nightly Taraweeh prayers, others pray at home. Some Muslim residents of Comber, a small community within Lakeshore, attend a mosque in Chatham.
Despite the logistical challenges, Lakeshore’s Muslim residents say the spirit of Ramadan remains strong.
“We may not have a mosque yet,” Aslam said, “but we have each other, and that is what Ramadan is all about.”
Aslam added that they have met many new friends and neighbours and are planning to organize a fundraiser and food drive for the local food bank. They are excited to connect with the welcoming community.
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