Millions of Muslims and Christians across the world have begun the observance of Ramadan and Lent, ushering in a season of spiritual reflection, fasting, and renewed devotion.
For Muslims, Ramadan—the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar—is marked by daily fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, charity, and moral discipline. For Christians, Lent is a 40-day period of prayer, penance, and self-denial leading to Easter, beginning with Ash Wednesday.
Ramadan Begins After Moon Sighting
Authorities in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon, signalling the start of Ramadan 1447. With the announcement, Taraweeh prayers commenced on Tuesday night, while fasting began on Wednesday.
Following the declaration, Muslims in Nigeria, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates also began fasting on Wednesday.
However, in Japan, Oman, Singapore, and Turkey, Ramadan officially began on Thursday, February 19, following local moon sighting decisions.
Nigeria Declares Ramadan
In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, declared Wednesday, February 18, as the first day of Ramadan after reports of moon sightings across the country.
In a statement signed by religious authorities, the Sultan urged Muslims to observe the fast in line with Islamic teachings and encouraged prayers for national peace, leadership, and security.
He also called on believers to use the holy month to promote unity and moral renewal.
Lent Begins for Christians
Meanwhile, Christians around the world have entered the Lenten season, beginning with Ash Wednesday and continuing for 40 days until Easter.
In his 2026 Lenten message, Pope Leo XIV urged Christians to practise restraint not only in food but also in speech.
The message, published on the website of the Holy See, encouraged believers to avoid hurtful words and harsh judgment.
“I invite you to a very practical and often unappreciated form of abstinence: refraining from words that offend and hurt others,” the Pope said.
Call for Kindness and Reflection
Pope Leo XIV explained that Lent offers believers an opportunity to place God at the centre of life and deepen their commitment to faith through prayer, fasting, and charity.
He emphasised that fasting helps believers rediscover their desire for justice and frees them from complacency.
“Fasting helps us recognise what we truly hunger for and what sustains us,” he noted.
The Pontiff also encouraged Christians to show compassion, especially towards the poor and vulnerable, whose struggles challenge society and institutions.
Promoting Peace Through Words
Highlighting what he called “disarming language,” the Pope urged Christians to avoid slander, gossip, and hateful speech, especially on social media and in public discourse.
“Let us begin by disarming our language and replacing harsh words with kindness,” he said.
He added that embracing such discipline would help replace hatred with hope and peace.
Shared Season of Spiritual Renewal
As Ramadan and Lent coincide this year, religious leaders say the period presents a unique opportunity for mutual understanding, moral reflection, and social harmony.
For many believers, the season represents a time to strengthen faith, practise self-control, and renew commitments to peace, compassion, and service to humanity.
Across continents, homes, mosques, and churches will echo with prayers, fasting routines, and acts of charity as Muslims and Christians journey through this sacred season together.
