Billings Islamic Center Get Involved

Get Involved

Ramadan is a sacred and special time for Muslims around the world. It is a month of fasting, prayer, self-reflection, and community. Whether you’re a member of the Muslim community looking to deepen your connection or a non-Muslim seeking to participate and learn, there are many ways to get involved and experience the beauty of this holy month.

1. Participate in Fasting

  • What It Involves: Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib) every day during Ramadan, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs.
  • How to Start: Begin your day with a pre-dawn meal called suhoor and break your fast at sunset with iftar. Non-Muslims are welcome to try fasting to better understand the experience.
  • Tip: If fasting isn’t feasible for you, consider abstaining from something meaningful, like a habit or indulgence, as a personal challenge.

2. Join the Community for Iftar

  • Attend a Community Iftar: Many masjids host nightly or weekly iftar dinners where everyone gathers to break their fast. These are open to Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
  • Bring a Dish: If your local masjid hosts potluck-style iftars, contribute a dish to share with others.
  • Experience the Spirit of Togetherness: Iftar is about more than food—it’s a time to connect, celebrate, and reflect with others.

3. Pray and Reflect

  • Join the Tarawih Prayers: These are special nightly prayers performed during Ramadan. Attend them at the masjid to experience the recitation of the Quran and the unity of worship.
  • Set Personal Goals: Whether it’s reading Quran, making dua (supplication), or practicing gratitude, Ramadan is an excellent time for spiritual growth.
  • Non-Muslims: You can join in reflection by meditating, reading about Ramadan, or exploring the values of patience and charity.

4. Engage in Acts of Charity

  • Give Zakat and Sadaqah: Ramadan is a month of generosity. Many Muslims give zakat (obligatory charity) or sadaqah (voluntary charity) during this time.
  • Volunteer: Help with food drives, distribute meals to those in need, or assist in organizing events at the masjid.
  • Non-Muslims: Contribute to Ramadan charity initiatives or partner with the community to support those in need.

5. Learn and Build Bridges

  • Attend Ramadan Events: Open houses and interfaith iftars are often held to educate and welcome non-Muslims. These events are excellent opportunities to ask questions and learn.
  • Host an Iftar: If you have Muslim friends or neighbors, consider hosting or supporting them with an iftar meal.
  • Share in the Celebration: Be part of Eid al-Fitr, the joyous festival marking the end of Ramadan.

6. Volunteer at the Masjid

  • Help with Ramadan Programs: Many masjids need volunteers for iftar preparation, prayer organization, and cleaning.
  • Assist with Kids’ Activities: Ramadan programs often include lessons and fun events for children—helping with these is a great way to get involved.
  • Contribute Your Skills: Whether it’s event planning, cooking, or logistics, there’s always a role for willing hands.

7. Support Others on Their Journey

  • Encourage and Respect: Support fasting Muslims by understanding their needs, such as avoiding eating in front of them or scheduling around prayer times when possible.
  • Offer Help: If you know someone who’s new to Ramadan or fasting for the first time, guide them with tips and encouragement.

8. Spread Awareness and Understanding

  • Educate Yourself: Read about the significance of Ramadan and its practices to better appreciate its meaning.
  • Invite Others: Encourage your friends, neighbors, and coworkers to participate in community iftars or open masjid events.

Ramadan is for Everyone

Ramadan is a time to foster spirituality, compassion, and community. Whether you’re fasting or supporting those who are, every act of kindness and connection helps bring people closer together. Join us in celebrating this blessed month by participating, giving back, and building understanding.

We welcome everyone to visit our masjid, learn about Ramadan, and experience the joy of this holy month with us. Together, we can make this Ramadan a time of growth, unity, and positive impact for all.