Vatican Calls for Christian-Muslim Unity in Ramadan Message

Vatican, 8 March, 2025: The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue has released its annual message for Ramadan, urging Christians and Muslims to “walk side by side” in faith and unity. Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, the Dicastery’s new prefect, signed this year’s message, which focuses on the theme "Christians and Muslims: What We Hope to Become Together." 

Cardinal Koovakad highlighted the significance of fasting, prayer, and charity, calling Ramadan “a privileged opportunity to draw closer to God and renew fundamental values of religion, compassion, and solidarity.” This year, the Islamic holy month largely overlaps with Lent, a time of fasting, supplication, and conversion for Christians. He described this rare alignment as a unique chance for both faiths to engage in a shared journey of purification and prayer.  

A Time of Inner Transformation  

The message describes Ramadan as more than a month of fasting, portraying it as “a school of inner transformation.” Cardinal Koovakad drew parallels with Lent, explaining that Christians also seek to purify their hearts and refocus on God through fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. Both traditions, he stressed, remind believers that faith is not just about external practices but about deep, personal conversion.  

A World in Need of Dialogue  

Cardinal Koovakad warned that “in a world marked by injustice, conflict, and uncertainty, our shared calling cannot be limited to spiritual practices alone.” He urged Christians and Muslims to demonstrate hope through friendship and unity, despite historical divisions and ideological differences.  

In this Jubilee Year of Hope, the message reaffirmed the Christian belief that “God’s love is stronger than any trials or obstacles.” Faith in God, the statement added, is a “treasure that unites us.” The cardinal encouraged both communities to show the world that faith has the power to transform individuals and societies, fostering reconciliation and unity.  

Working Together for Peace  

The Dicastery’s message called on Christians and Muslims to let shared values—justice, compassion, and respect for creation—guide their actions and relationships. “These values should serve as a compass for building bridges rather than walls,” it stated.  

As Ramadan approaches its conclusion with ‘Id al-Fitr, the Vatican expressed its joy in sharing this season of hope with Muslims. “May our prayers, gestures of solidarity, and efforts for peace be tangible signs of our sincere friendship,” the message read. It encouraged Christians and Muslims to use the occasion to strengthen their fraternal bonds and celebrate together the goodness of God.

Courtesy: Vatican News