Bergen County officials hosted the Annual Grand Iftar and Crescent Lighting on March 9 at Bergen Community College in Paramus, according to a March 11 announcement. The event was organized in partnership with the Eid Committee of New Jersey to mark the beginning of Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam.
Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a time for fasting, prayer, reflection, and charitable giving. The evening meal known as iftar brings families and communities together to break their fast and express gratitude.
The ceremony brought together elected officials, religious leaders, and community members. Assemblywoman Shama Haider of New Jersey District 37 delivered welcome remarks. A nasheed performance was given by Little Stars of the Muslim Community of Dumont.
County Executive James J. Tedesco III addressed attendees: “During this sacred time, you feed the hungry, care for the poor, and extend kindness to those around you. It is a month where strangers are no longer strangers. These practices, which guide the very spirit of Islam, make our County a more compassionate place every single day,” said County Executive Tedesco. “Let us all live our lives in the way that Ramadan encourages us to- spreading light, charity, and kindness everywhere we go. May the light of this crescent spread across our community and bring lasting peace throughout the world.”
Reverend Mason Jenkins from The Valley Hospital led interfaith prayers for peace during the event. The ceremony began with lighting a crescent in the gymnasium at Bergen Community College and included Maghrib prayer led by Imam Sadiq Tahir from Minhaj-Ul-Quran in Hackensack.
Reflecting on the evening, Commissioner Rafael Marte said, “Our Muslim community is a cornerstone of Bergen County, and we are grateful for all they contribute. We were proud to host them for this celebration of Ramadan as we broke bread together and commemorated this time of reflection, unity, and gratitude.”
Food and refreshments were donated by several local Islamic organizations including Bergen County Islamic Center; Cultural Society of Bergen County; Eid Committee of New Jersey; El-Zahra Islamic Center in Midland Park; Minhaj-Ul-Quran in Hackensack; and Nida-Ul Islam in Teaneck.
