Ramadan and Lent: A Shared Time of Reflection

Kalsoom Maqsood reflects on the overlapping start of Ramadan and Lent in 2026: 

As I made my final preparations for Ramadan, I was reminded by my good friend, Pauline McHugh, that 2026 marks a significant and unusual event: the simultaneous start of Ramadan with the start of Lent. Both Ramadan and Lent are considered to be times of spiritual growth and inner reflection, where fasting and prayers take centre stage albeit in varying levels of intensity. Working during Ramadan presents its own challenges, but for me, the effects of fatigue far surpass the lack of food or drink, with late afternoon being a particular low point. This year, when feeling sorry for myself, not only will I be thinking about all others observing Ramadan but I will remind myself that long after the celebration of Eid, those observing Lent will only just have the final furlong in sight. Ramadan Mubarak, and may you all have a blessed and reflective Lent.