This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Ramadan (May 26 – June 24 this year) is celebrated throughout the Muslim world as a month of fasting to commemorate the prophet Muhammad's first revelation from God. From sunrise to sundown Muslims fast from food, drinking (even water), smoking, sexual relations and any sinful behavior like lying or fighting.
For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or Mormons, the Ramadan fasting is a familiar form of worship and dedication. Mormons fast at least once a month on the first Sunday, and often on additional days to seek special blessings or give particular thanks to God.
Other similarities also tie these two faith communities together: tithe-paying, scripture study, prophets, abstinence, prayer, polygamy, large families, dress codes and abstention from alcohol.
The similarities extend to the Muslim refugee experience. Mormons came to Utah as religious refugees, and have welcomed others ever since. Utah led out in welcoming Syrian refugees after terrorist attacks in Paris in 2015. Indeed, when many thought the refugee program would be halted under President Trump's immigration ban, Utahns showed up at the airport in support of refugee families coming into the state. With this current refugee outreach, Mormon women especially have been key to Utah's success.
The LDS Church enlarged its refugee relief efforts last March after then-president of the General Relief Society (the church organization for women) Linda K. Burton pleaded with women members to serve refugees in their own communities. The effort was known as "I Was a Stranger" after the biblical verse in St. Matthew, chapter 25 verse 35, "For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in."
This past weekend, two Mormon wards opened their church houses to host Ramadan evening meals with neighbors. Muslims shared their unique traditional dishes and Mormons offered a place to congregate and share faith. And perhaps some Jell-O.
Despite Mormons not being literal refugees anymore, they still share a refuge with their Muslim brothers and sisters, as do all religious people: their belief in God.
Religions should be leading out to welcome refugees, to protect them and take care of them.
With the recent terrorist attacks in London, and the uncertainty over refugees throughout Europe, it's nice to note that there are Utahns who offer friendship and kindness instead of fear.