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Expressed in many languages, celebrated in many varied ways, Eid Al-Fitr is our time for joyous celebration.
It is our holiday that is preceded by a month where we refrained from food, drink, and intimacy with one’s spouse to instill discipline in our conduct, to raise awareness of those less fortunate, and, more importantly, to bring us closer to our Creator. Ramadan was a month where bad speech and selfish conduct were replaced with increased acts of worship of Allah and performing more acts of charity and kindness.
As we are on the cusp of Eid Al-Fitr, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago wishes to take this time to extend warm and joyous Eid greetings to you and your family.
Traditionally, Eid is celebrated with family and close friends. It is a time to eat and to engage family and friends in celebratory conversation and joyous activities. Whether it is sharing henna designs, engaging in conversations around a barbeque pit, or enjoying extended sessions of laughter among one’s sisters and brothers, it truly is a joyous time for us. It is also a time for each of us to acknowledge within ourselves our individual spiritual growth and to re-affirm our commitment to maintain that deeper connection with our Lord.
As a federation of Islamic organizations, let us take this time to extend Eid greetings beyond our immediate family and friends. Many of you have graciously welcomed into your space of worship other Muslim organizations seeking help and assistance to support their charitable and religious programs during Ramadan. Let us offer our gratitude to you for such help. Many of you opened your doors to CIOGC to support its mission and programs. May Allah reward each of one of you for your generosity. It was received with thanks and gratitude.
May Allah grant all of the CIOGC family a blessed Eid holiday and may Allah continue to help each of us develop a closer relationship with Him. Ameen.
G. Abdullah Mitchell
CIOGC Executive Director
abdullah@ciogc.org
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