John Washington, a Dining Service team member at Artman Senior Living, recently brought the spirit and flavor of Ramadan to Artman in Ambler, PA. He gave back to his beloved team members at the community by serving them a full meal last Tuesday. For anyone who was unable to attend that day, he fed them a full meal the next day.

According to Dana O’Donnell, Executive Director at Artman, “John and his wife Valerie bought food at their expense, prepared and served it for the entire Artman team as part of their Ramadan observance. The food was fantastic and their generosity was overwhelming!”

John explains, “If someone cannot fast during Ramadan, either due to a medical condition or other reasons, one can instead feed thirty people during the month, as a way of sharing blessings. We wanted to share blessings with the Artman team because they are like a second family to me. I have been with Sodexo for 28 years and have served Artman for many of those years so everyone I work with is very close to my heart.”

Ramadan is much more than a time of abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset; it is a sacred period of deep spiritual reflection, enhanced worship, giving back, and strengthening community bonds. For Muslims around the world, this month is one of the most significant periods of the Islamic lunar calendar, a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-discipline and sacrifice.

Spiritual Reflection and Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan, known as ‘Sawm’, serves as one of the five pillars of Islam. It offers an opportunity for spiritual renewal and increased devotion. It’s a deeply personal act of worship where individuals draw closer to Allah, seeking forgiveness and expressing their gratitude for their blessings in life.

Giving Back and Charity

Charity, or ‘Zakat’, also one of the pillars of Islam, becomes even more significant during Ramadan. It’s a time when Muslims are encouraged to be especially generous and increase their charitable activities. Giving back to others embodies the spirit of Ramadan and earns spiritual rewards.

Serving Others

Blessing others through service is part and parcel of the Ramadan spirit. Whether it’s through volunteering, helping neighbors, or simply offering kind words and deeds, service is a practical illustration of the teachings of Islam during this holy month.

Community

Communal Iftars (the meal to break the fast) are a common practice, bringing families and community members together to share in the blessings. In interfaith senior communities, these gatherings may be a beautiful opportunity for sharing culture and tradition with non-Muslim neighbors, fostering a greater understanding and tolerance.

Numerous Artman team members raved about John’s meal.

“John made mac and cheese, chicken, and sweet potatoes, and my goodness everything was soooooo delicious,” claims Deborah Schuck, Executive Assistant.

“The chicken was a hit,” says Darryl Gruber, Director of Dining Services.

Madeleine Byrne, Director of Community Life says, “The food was fabulous-especially the yams!”

John claims, “My wife Valerie baked cakes that we brought in fresh on Tuesday and she baked more on Wednesday to make sure everyone had the opportunity to try them.”

The Final 10 Days of Ramadan

The last ten days of Ramadan hold special significance as Muslims seek out Laylat al-Qadr or the ‘Night of Power’—believed to be the night when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. These days are marked by intensified prayer, reflection, and community.

Ramadan is about cultivating spiritual growth, expressing gratitude, lending a helping hand, and cherishing the togetherness of community life. Whether one is a part of the Muslim community or someone curious about these traditions, Ramadan presents an opportunity to reflect on the universal values we share as humans—compassion, caring, charity, and connection.

May this Ramadan be a month of blessings, a month full of forgiveness and guidance for all.

For more information about life at Artman, CLICK HERE.