Obama, Clinton extend Ramadan greetings

WASHINGTON, DC (PAN.

“As Ramadan begins, Michelle and I would like to send our best wishes to Muslim communities in the United States and around the world.  Ramadan is a festive time that is anticipated for months by Muslims everywhere,” Obama said in a statement.

“For so many Muslims around the world, Ramadan is a also time of deep reflection and sacrifice. As in other faiths, fasting is used to increase spirituality, discipline, and consciousness of God’s mercy,” Obama said in a statement. 

“It is also a reminder of the importance of reaching out to those less fortunate.  The heartbreaking accounts of lost lives and the images of families and children in Somalia and the Horn of Africa struggling to survive remind us of our common humanity and compel us to act,” he said.

“Now is the time for nations and peoples to come together to avert an even worse catastrophe by offering support and assistance to on-going relief efforts,” he said. “Times like this remind us of the lesson of all great faiths, including Islam — that we do unto others as we would have them do unto us,” Obama said, adding that he looks forward to hosting an iftar dinner here at the White House. 

Clinton said Ramadan is a time for self-reflection, sharing and renewal.  “American Muslims make valuable contributions to our country every day and millions around the world will commemorate this month with acts of service and volunteerism to their communities,” she said.

“During this month of peace and humility, I wish the 1.6 billion Muslims around the world Ramadan Kareem,” Clinton said.

Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi said the holy month of Ramadan is a time of joy and reflection; fasting, prayer, and discipline; sacrifice and spirituality.  “It is an occasion when Muslim families come together to celebrate, to hold fast to the legacy of their ancestors, to honor tradition and reaffirm their faith,” she said.

“To all who observe Ramadan, may this month bring happiness, wisdom, and blessings to you and your families.  Ramadan Kareem,” Pelosi said.

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