LWF sends Eid greetings to Islamic Relief Worldwide

General Secretary Junge gives thanks for growing collaboration as Faith-based organizations 

(LWI) - The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) General Secretary, Rev. Dr Martin Junge, has sent a message of goodwill to members of the humanitarian and development organization Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) who are marking the feast of Eid al-Fitr. 

The celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which took place over the weekend of 23 to 24 May, is a major feast day in the Muslim calendar marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. In a letter addressed to the IRW’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Naser Haghamed, Junge notes that Muslim families and friends were celebrating this year amid “ongoing restrictions and adaptations due to COVID-19". 

The Lutheran leader gives thanks for “our shared learning and ongoing collaboration as Faith-based organizations that has taken on increased relevance and significance during these challenging times.” In particular, he points to the joint statement issued on 11 May 2020 calling for an immediate ceasefire in ongoing conflicts in order to guarantee humanitarian access and protect people from the Coronavirus disease pandemic. 

Let us continue in offering our best inspired by our faith values and motivated by our humanitarian calling.

Junge concludes by noting that “the days ahead continue to be marked by uncertainty and the suffering of people worldwide.” Nonetheless, he says, “let us continue in offering our best inspired by our faith values and motivated by our humanitarian calling.”  

IRW works in over 40 countries across the globe delivering emergency aid, as well as focusing on disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability.