The start of Lent and Ramadan are both important times for Christians, including Catholics, Anglicans, Eastern Orthodox, Lutherans and Methodists, as well as Muslims, to engage in religious practices such as self-discipline, spiritual renewal and drawing closer to God. As people participate in their religion and fasting, they express their faith and culture.
Despite their similarities in that they are both religious practices, Lent and Ramadan are different and celebrated by different religions. This year, Lent started Feb. 18 and ends April 2. It is a 40-day solemn Christian season of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, starting on Ash Wednesday, which was Feb. 18. Lent is a way for believers to mimic Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness to prepare for Easter. Senior Bella Turbiano said, “For Lent I gave up many things that I would spend too much money on including Starbucks. I also gave up any negative talk towards myself, encouraging me to be more positive.”
Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, marked by 29-30 days of fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, charity and reflection from Feb. 17 to March 19 this year. It is a holy month of deep reflection, increased worship and charity designed to purify the soul and commemorate the revelation of the Quran, which means “reading” and is the central holy book of Islam covering faith, law and moral guidance. A 2025 graduate Nibras Hassan said, “I fast from sunrise to sunset, which includes water and food.”
Students observe Lent or Ramadan in their daily lives differently, including challenges like fasting during school. Turbiano said, “Giving up my morning Starbucks coffee is not easy since it would always encourage me to start my day on a high note and give me energy throughout the long school days but now I can no longer start my day with my favorite iced coffee.”
At school, these religious seasons are an opportunity for students to learn more about different cultures and beliefs. As students are surrounded by diverse friend groups, they are able to see how their peers participate in celebrating Lent or Ramadan and use it as a topic of discussion to learn more about the cultures. Junior Winnie Kelley said, “Every year I love talking about what my friends are giving up for Lent and what goals they are setting for themselves. Even though it’s challenging, it’s always good to know I relate to the people around me, giving me motivation.”
As Lent and Ramadan continue throughout the spring, students and families are using this time to reflect, strengthen their faith and practice self-discipline. Although the traditions come from different religions, both seasons emphasize values such as reflection and spiritual growth. Learning about these traditions can help create a greater sense of understanding and respect within the community.
