The Church of Sweden Urges Cooperation with Muslim Congregations

This year, the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan and the Christian Lent begin at about the same time. The Church of Sweden sees this as an excellent opportunity for cooperation.

Lent began on February 18 and Ramadan the day after. Now, the diocesan officers for interfaith relations are suggesting that this could be an opportunity to strengthen relationships across religious boundaries.

“In cooperation with your local Muslim congregation(s), you can invite each other to a Muslim iftar one evening at your church and another evening at the mosque,” writes the Diocese of Gothenburg.

They “believe that this could be a way to strengthen relationships and tell a different story about Muslims and Islam than the one often heard in public debate today.”

It’s easiest if the congregation already has contacts with the Muslim community, but if not, “this could be an occasion to make a first connection.”

They suggest “inviting them to an iftar at the church and see if they would like to reciprocate at the mosque” and if you want to serve meat, “make sure it is halal.”

Iftar is when the fast is broken at sunset.

According to a hadith, Muhammad is said to have recited these words when breaking the fast: ‘The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.’

Further suggestions include activities during the meal—such as sharing with each other about fasting traditions or inviting to speeches and games.

The message is signed by the following individuals:

Henrik Frykberg, Diocesan Chaplain Gothenburg Diocese
Caroline Kylbäck, Diocesan Chaplain Västerås Diocese
Ida Wreland, Diocesan Chaplain Växjö Diocese
Maria Klasson Sundin, Diocesan Theologian Luleå Diocese
Gudrun Norrfjärd, International Secretary Skara Diocese
Eva-Maria Munck, Coordinator for International and Interfaith Affairs Stockholm Diocese
Pernilla Myrelid, Diocesan Chaplain Linköping Diocese
Erik Berggren, Bishop’s Chaplain Uppsala Diocese
Helena Inghammar, Diocesan Chaplain Strängnäs Diocese
Peter Lööv Roos, Coordinator for Interfaith Affairs Church Office