New converts experience holy month to the fullest
Those who have recently converted to Islam are fully embracing iftar and suhoor alongside their predecessors, sharing their experiences with the world.
Speaking at the eighth edition of Taaruf, an annual event aimed at promoting understanding of Islam among non-Muslims and new converts, Sarah, a French national fasting for the second time in her life, shared her preparation process. She began fasting intermittently a month before Ramadhan, gradually adjusting her body to the practice. Sarah found fasting during Ramadhan easier than in other months, attributing her success to her preparation.
Ulrica, a German national who adopted the name Alia after converting to Islam, expressed her smooth journey, particularly with the support of her Bahraini husband. She shared that she was initially drawn to fasting during Ramadhan for both religious and health reasons, having fasted even before her conversion. Ulrica emphasised the importance of fasting as a means of self-care, allowing time for reflection and mindfulness in the midst of daily life.
Mary, a domestic worker from Nairobi, shared her experience of converting to Islam with her employer, who supported her decision. Mary expressed her admiration for the closeness to God, love for others and kindness displayed by Muslims, which ultimately drew her to the faith.
She described her joy in participating in her first Ramadhan alongside her mentor, Umm Kulthoom.
The event, organised by the Department of Introduction to Islam and Cultural Exchange at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, was held under the theme 'Quran for Every Soul'. It was attended by Azzan bin Qasim al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism and Islamic preacher Abdur Raheem McCarthy on March 7 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC).
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