Our bishops have wished our Muslim friends 'Eid Mubarak' as Ramadan comes to an end this week.

The bishops' warm words can be read below.

"To Muslim friends, colleagues and communities on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr 2022,

"We send you our warmest greetings and good wishes as you prepare to mark Eid al-Fitr.

"We are delighted that this year, after two years of marking Eid in lockdown, you will once again be able to gather together to celebrate with your families and communities.

"This year, the Islamic month of Ramadan overlapped with the Christian season of Lent and it has been wonderful to explore shared themes of prayer and fasting together.

"It was a joy to unite with the Muslim community and people of all faiths and backgrounds for ‘Fasting Friday’, which coincided with Good Friday, the day on which we remember Jesus’ death, to fast together and share an ‘Open Iftar’.

"Ramadan is often characterised by immense charity.

"That charitable spirit has been clearly displayed by mosques and Muslim community organisations feeding whole communities at iftars every evening during Ramadan, often in areas where food poverty is an ongoing challenge.

"We continue to appreciate all the ways in which you support the whole community for the common good.

"And so, we wish you “Eid Mubarak” – may this blessed occasion bring much joy, peace and happiness to you all."

The Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Leeds
The Rt Revd Toby Howarth, Bishop of Bradford
The Rt Revd Jonathan Gibbs, Bishop of Huddersfield
The Rt Revd Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Ripon
The Rt Revd Tony Robinson, Bishop of Wakefield