The following message is sent to the Chicagoland Muslim community on behalf of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Cardinal Blase J. Cupich:
“As you celebrate ‘Id al-Fitr, marking the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, I extend warmest greetings to you on behalf of the faithful Archdiocese of Chicago.
Included with this greeting is a copy of the 2017 Message for the End of Ramadan prepared by the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. This year’s message is a historical milestone since it marks the 50th year that the Council has prepared a goodwill communication to Muslims worldwide at the conclusion of one of your most sacred religious observances.
In keeping with the Council’s tradition of preparing a message focusing on current issues, the 2017 theme is “Christians and Muslims: Caring for our Common Home,” based on Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si.” In his 2015 letter Pope Francis challenged all of us, regardless of our religious belief, to be better stewards of God’s creation (Mother Earth) through dialogue, our actions, and prayers for an ecological conversion of heart. May our close bonds of friendship and mutual respect be strengthened well into the future as we continue our shared commitment to care for our common home and protect sacredness of all human life.
Wishing you and your family ‘Id Mubarak with prayers that your celebration will be filled with festivities and many spiritual blessings. With kind regards I remain.”
Cardinal Blase J. Cupich
Archbishop of Chicago