Chief Rabbi to host Ramadan fast-breaking at his home

The Chief Rabbi is to break new ground, by breaking bread, at an historic interfaith ‘iftar’ in his own home.

Ephraim Mirvis will hold the meal for Muslims to break their fast for the festival of Ramadan, as a ‘gesture of friendship’ to those of the Islamic faith.

The iftar, which will seek to bring Jews and Muslims together following the deadly Manchester bombing two weeks ago, will also mark the one year anniversary of the murder of ex Labour MP Jo Cox, by far-right extremist Thomas Mair.

It is thought to be the first time a Chief Rabbi has hosted such an event.

Writing in the Jewish Telegraph, Mirvis says: “Next month [June], Valerie and I will be hosting an Iftar (the meal eaten by Muslims to break their fast during Ramadan) at our home as part of ‘The Great Get Together’, a national event which will mark the anniversary of the senseless murder of Jo Cox. It will be a gesture of friendship to Muslims who decry violence and who are actively working for peaceful coexistence with people of all faiths and none. I pray that it will empower and embolden them to inspire other Muslims to follow their example and to denounce all violence which is inspired by hate.

“Both Thomas Mair (the man who murdered Jo Cox) and Salman Abedi had the same objective: to sow seeds of hatred and division. I pray that together, with enough emphasis on the values that unite us, we can overcome those forces of division. In short, I pray for the strength to emulate the spirit of Manchester and I invite you to pray with me.”