Fast broken at Friendship Cafe

The Friendship Cafe provides youth and community based activities in Gloucester

A cafe in Gloucester was buzzing as over 80 people from all faiths gathered together to share supper.

The Bring and Share event was arranged at The Friendship Cafe on Barton Street to coincide with the end of the Ramadan fast on Monday, 7 September, 2009.

During the holy month, Muslims fast during daylight hours and then eat at night.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and although Muslims fast during other times of the year, it's is the only time when fasting is obligatory during the entire month for every able Muslim.

It is intended to increase self-control in all areas, including food, sleeping, sex and the use of time.

"These events are becoming really nice friendly evenings," said Reyaz, one of the organisers. "Getting to meet and know all sorts of people from all over the shop. It's hard work, but well worth it".

The event, coordinated by Spirit of Peace, was arranged to coincide with the Iftar; the evening meal when Muslims break their fast.

Before the meal Haroon Kadodia spoke about the fast, customs and observances made by Muslims during the Holy month of Ramadan.

Also at the event was Jane Ozanne, UK director of Spirit of Peace, who spoke about future events, the ongoing work of Jerusalem Peacemakers and support for Hope Flowers School in Bethlehem.

The next Bring and Share Supper at the Friendship Cafe takes place at 7pm on Monday, 2 November, 2009.