Darragh's Soapbox: The many cultures of Waterford

Over 80,000 Muslims in Ireland engaged in Ramadan this year.

They have been fasting from dusk until dawn, as a celebration of the Muslim holy book, the Qur'an.

Muslims have been fasting for the past 30 days from all foods and liquids.

A typical day during Ramadan begins with a meal just before dawn.

Muslims then proceed with their normal day at work or school.

When the sun sets in the evening, they have Futoor or Iftar, a meal where they break their fast, which traditionally begins with eating a date and a glass of water. 

The Waterford News & Star asked members of the community this week what the celebration means to them.

Local Jonah Schild said: “My patterns of thoughts were taking up a lot of energy, and if I stopped eating and drinking, and purposely restrained myself, I had to engage with the limitations of my mind, and so Ramadan helped me push through so many personal barriers."

Another local said: "It is very difficult, but we do it as a group. It creates discipline and brings us closer to Islam."

Cllr John Hearne, who was present at a recent fast-breaking meal, said: "Every so often I call into the mosque here, and Ramadan is special, it's like our Christmas. It's great to see the different cultures."

Cllr Joe Kelly added: "This holy month is not only a time of reflection, prayer and fasting for Muslims around the world, but it is also a moment for us all to come together as a community and celebrate the values of compassion, unity and generosity that binds us all. 

"As our Muslim brothers and sisters fast from dawn until dusk, they experiences not only the physical challenges of hunger and thirst, but also the deeper spiritual lessons of patience, humility and gratitude, values that transcend borders, cultures and religions."