Muslims in Waterloo Region are preparing to mark a significant spiritual event. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and this year it will start on Feb. 18. It is a time of increased worship, daily fasting and deep religious meaning. Mohamed Elsafoury, Imam at the Islamic Centre of Cambridge, said it is an important opportunity for the community to come together. “This life will take each of us to different places, but this is a good opportunity to come together and to worship our creator, our God and it’s a good opportunity to support each other in this community and to help each other to correct our behaviour to help each other to understand Islam more and more deeply.” Hundreds of people are expected to come together at the Islamic Centre of Cambridge around 8 p.m. Tuesday for prayers. During the observation of Ramadan, practicing Muslims will not eat or drink from dawn until sunset. At the end of the holy month, there will be another celebration known as Eid al-Fitr, which is marked with feasting, more prayers and gatherings.
