Ramadan 2025: Celebrate peace and cohesion in Vienna!

Ramadan 2025: Celebrate peace and cohesion in Vienna!

On March 29, 2025, the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) announces the festival of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr), which will be celebrated from March 30 to April 1, 2025. The festival marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, which this year has the motto “Time for Consistency”. In his message, President Ümit Vural highlighted the challenges posed by global crises, particularly the tense situation in the Gaza Strip. The IGGÖ sees it as its responsibility to work for peace and a humanitarian solution and calls on Austria's Muslims to pay their Fitra tax on time to help those in need.

During Ramadan, numerous prayers and events took place in mosques. For example, on March 27, 2025, an interreligious iftar took place in Vienna City Hall. Mayor Dr. Michael Ludwig emphasized the importance of interreligious dialogue and harmonious coexistence in the city. The IGGÖ draws attention to the importance of social diversity, solidarity and mutual respect. With this in mind, the IGGÖ wishes all Muslims in Austria and worldwide a blessed and peaceful Ramadan - Eid Mubarak!

Interfaith messages in times of Ramadan

On the occasion of the month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1446 E., the Vatican's Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue sent a message of greeting to Muslims worldwide. Signed by Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad and his secretary, the message emphasizes the importance of compassion and solidarity. Ramadan is described as an opportunity to renew the fundamental values ​​of religion and to draw closer to God.

Special reference is made to the fact that this year Ramadan largely coincides with Christian Lent, which offers the opportunity to experience together a process of purification, prayer and charity. The message calls for rejecting all forms of violence, discrimination and exclusion and forging a future based on brotherhood. The wish is expressed that friendship between Muslims and Christians is a sign of peace.

Shared values ​​for peace

Interfaith dialogue between Judaism, Christianity and Islam is cited as crucial to promoting peace and understanding. All three religions have roots in the figure of the patriarch Abraham and share many common values ​​such as mercy, justice and human dignity. These shared values ​​are essential to reduce prejudices and create mutual understanding.

Studies have shown that interreligious dialogue is more effective when it is based on these shared values. Cities with intensive interreligious activities tend to be more socially cohesive. The IGGÖ and other religious communities promote trust and bridges between different religions through joint projects in the areas of charity, education and environmental protection.

Overall, the festival of Ramadan not only represents personal spiritual renewal, but also a strong sign of solidarity and peace at a time when understanding and respect are needed more than ever.