Father Donald P. Oleksiak, Diocesan Administrator, offers this message of support and friendship to the Northeast Ohio Muslim community to mark the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of prayer and fasting

Dear Muslim friends,

As the Muslim community throughout Northeast Ohio begins the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, I wish to offer a greeting of peace and my congratulations on the conclusion of your month-long vigil of fasting, prayer, and works of mercy.

I remember and share the sentiment of Pope Francis when he expressed this thought, “When we show respect for the religion of our neighbors or when we offer them our good wishes on the occasion of a religious celebration, we simply seek to share their joy, without making reference to the content of their religious convictions.”

I offer my personal and prayerful best wishes during this time of celebration. May your lives give glory to the Almighty and bring joy to all those around you.