In celebration of Mother’s Day in the MIddle East on March 21, the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation hosted a special Ramadan Iftar at the HCEF’s Birzeit Community Cultural Center. This unique event coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, a time that embodies loyalty, love, and gratitude towards mothers whose sacrifices are immeasurable. More than just a day for traditional gestures of appreciation, this celebration aimed to underscore the deep cultural and religious bonds that unite the Palestinian people, regardless of their Christian or Islamic faith, through shared heritage, language, and experiences.

The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Mai Kayla, the Palestinian Minister of Health, Mrs. Diana Sayej Nasser, the Mayor of Birzeit, and Mr. Nasr Al-Atari, the Mayor of Atara. They extended their well-wishes to the mothers, our cherished family members, and grandparents, and highlighted the significance of mothers, women, children, and the martyrs in Gaza, expressing a collective desire for peace. Their speeches emphasized the importance of Mother’s Day, especially for the elderly women at the center, spotlighting the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation’s commitment to elevating the role of mothers within Palestinian families and society.

Mrs. Najwa Khoury, Director of the Center, articulated deep respect and appreciation for mothers, especially the elderly, underscoring the Foundation’s efforts to foster health, wellness, and unity among the community. She expressed gratitude towards all attendees and benefactors for making the celebration possible.

Sir Rateb Rabie, President and CEO of the Foundation, remarked that the Ramadan Iftar was a gesture of honor and support for mothers, reflecting the Foundation’s mission to promote humanitarian values, health, community welfare, and human rights. He underscored the commitment to Islamic-Christian brotherhood and coexistence in Palestine, a testament to shared love and aspirations.

Special thanks were extended to Mr. Musa Qawasmi for his generous donation and Qatayef, Mr. Qaher Abu Dayyeh for providing beauty services to the women in honor of Mother’s Day, an other donors, for highlighting their invaluable support and kindness on this occasion.

On the blessed occasion of Eid al-Fitr, the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation extends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all, praying for a future filled with peace, security, and prosperity for our beloved homeland.

To support the center, please consider donating here: https://hcef.org/donate/