Paris: Representatives of the Islamic community in France, including heads of mosques, emphasize that Ramadan serves as a vital opportunity to enhance humanitarian, charitable, and volunteer values. M'hammed Henniche, representing the union of over 100 mosques in the Seine-Saint-Denis region, detailed an integrated religious program during Ramadan, which includes sermons, jurisprudence lessons, and various prayers.
According to Qatar News Agency, Henniche highlighted the dual challenge and opportunity posed by the region's population, which is estimated to include one million Muslims by 2025. The union has been actively organizing donation drives, especially for affected Arab and Islamic communities in Palestine, Sudan, and other African countries. These donations are directed towards humanitarian aid, including well-digging and school construction.
Henniche further noted that the financial contributions during Ramadan are crucial, as they account for 80% of mosque funding annually. This underscores the trust in these institutions and their role in community service. The union's budget for Ramadan activities reaches approximately half a million euros, reflecting the significant responsibility of supporting and consolidating community values.
Khalid Belkhadir, responsible for the Al-Salam Grand Mosque in Carpentras, described Ramadan as a peak period for spiritual and social activities at the mosque. The mosque sees an increased turnout, particularly during the last 10 days and Tarawih prayers. Belkhadir explained that the mosque's facilities, spanning 1,700 sqm, accommodate around 1,500 worshipers, aiming to create a conducive environment for worship and community engagement.
Belkhadir outlined various religious and cultural activities during Ramadan, including lessons in Islamic jurisprudence, training for new imams, and competitions in Quran memorization. On a charitable note, the mosque distributes food baskets and provides support to the needy, prisoners, and students. Group Iftar meals are organized, ensuring inclusivity for those unable to attend.
Belkhadir emphasized that these efforts reflect the mosque's commitment to Islamic values and contribute to strengthening social solidarity. Ramadan is seen as an opportunity to deepen community ties and showcase the tolerant values of Islam through a combination of worship, education, and charity.
The latest estimates for 2025 project that France will have approximately 2,670 mosques, with 462 located in Paris and its suburbs. Figures from 2024 indicate approximately 460 active imams in France, supplemented by visiting imams for Islamic occasions like Ramadan. The Muslim population in France is expected to reach 5.7 to 6.7 million by 2025, comprising about 8-10% of the total population.