Getting Ready for Ramadan (5 of 5)

Ramadan Mubarak

In just a few days, we will be honored with the arrival of a beloved guest: the month of Ramadan. The first day of fasting is expected to be Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (1447 AH), while Taraweeh prayers will begin on Tuesday, February 17, immediately after the ʿIshā’ prayer.

This year’s Ramadan is especially meaningful. With cooler weather and shorter days, it offers a gentle and refreshing opportunity to worship with renewed strength. As a community, we will be hosting three weekly iftars—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We warmly invite you to contribute toward this blessed effort. You may sponsor a full or partial day of food, water, dates, coffee, or tea. Every contribution strengthens our community and brings reward known only to Allah.

The Blessings of Ramadan

Dear brothers and sisters, Allah Taʿālā has chosen the month of Ramadan for us to perform the noble act of fasting. This alone makes it a month of immense honor and spiritual elevation.

Allah reminds us in the Qur’an:

• Fasting is a path to taqwa
  “O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain taqwa.” (Qur’an 2:183)

• Ramadan is the month of the Qur’an
  “The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Qur’an was revealed as guidance for humanity…” (Qur’an 2:185)

• The Night of Qadr
  A night described as “better than a thousand months” (Qur’an 97:3), found in the last ten odd nights.

And in the sacred Qudsi hadith, Allah says:

• “Fasting is for Me, and I alone will reward it.”
  This is a unique honor—an act of worship whose reward is beyond measure.

Preparing Our Hearts for Ramadan

As we welcome this blessed month, let us prepare ourselves with intention and sincerity:

1. Renew Your Connection with the Qur’an

Set a daily portion, even if small. Consistency brings light to the heart.

2. Increase Dhikr and Istighfār

Moments before iftar and after Fajr are especially blessed.

3. Give Charity Generously

The Prophet ﷺ was most generous in Ramadan. Supporting community iftar, helping a neighbor, or feeding a fasting person all carry multiplied reward.

4. Strengthen Family and Community Bonds

Check on loved ones, visit the sick, and uplift those who may be struggling.

A Prayer for the Coming Month

I pray that Allah Taʿālā allows us to reach Ramadan, helps us fast its days, stand in its nights, and enjoy every form of worship it offers. May He grant us health, faith, and many more Ramadans to come. Āmeen.