During the 2024 Holy Month of Ramadan, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints joined hands with various religious communities to conduct gift-giving activities in several Muslim communities in Metro Manila, a testament to the unity and mutual respect among different faiths.
For years, the Church has donated halal-certified food packs to Muslim communities in the Philippines. During Ramadan, these communities engage in a month-long period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community service. These projects are organized by Uniharmony Partners Manila, Religions for Peace, the Imam Council of the Philippines, the Pacific Dialogue Foundation, the Quiapo Church, and others.
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“We emphasize that the items given through the Church come from its members, which currently number more than 850,000 in the Philippines,” said Jet Bellen from the Communications Department of the Philippines Area.
“Interestingly, this year, Ramadan coincided with Holy Week. One of the similarities between Muslims and members of our Church is that we both practice fasting. Members of our Church are encouraged to fast for two meals each month and donate the equivalent of those meals to someone in need,” added Bellen.
DOWNLOADIftar is observed by Muslims at sunset in the month of Ramadan, upon completion of all religious and ceremonial rites. Observed by people of all ages, genders and backgrounds, it marks the daily termination of the hardships of fasting from dawn to sunset.
This year, the Church extended its support by donating over 1,000 sets of food packs and items, including essential staples such as rice, bread, and halal-certified canned goods, among others. These food packs were distributed to Muslim communities in need across Manila, Taguig, and Quezon City.
Additionally, the Church contributed Iftar meals to Muslim inmates at Quezon City Jail and Camp Karingal.
Interfaith efforts like these are not new to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While there could be doctrinal differences, this does not prevent the Church from partnering with other faiths in charitable projects, as these efforts are based on universal values.
The Church strongly believes that people of good faith do not need to have the exact same beliefs in order to accomplish great things in the service of their fellow human beings.