For Muslims worldwide, the start of the month of September also marked the beginning of Ramadan. In honor of the month of Ramadan-a holy time of fasting and special religious observations-the Muslim Student Association at SLU will be holding its annual “Fast-A-Thon” on Sept. 24.

The event, which is geared toward non-Muslims, has traditionally drawn at least 400 participants.

“[Ramadan] is the most blessed and serious moment from the beginning of Islam,” MSA Co-President Haariss Ilyas said. “People work hard not to commit even the smallest and most minor of sins. Every act of worship is magnified. It is a time of repentance.”

In this time of reflection and self-realization, fasting is intended to teach patience, self-control and moderation.

For MSA Co-President Amera Ahmad, Ramadan serves to remind her of how fortunate she is to have food and other material items.

“It is a time for spiritual growth, to revive your faith, learn more about your faith and to connect with God,” Amera said.

Another important aspect of Ramadan is Iftar, the communal evening meal for breaking the fast.

The Fast-A-Thon is based upon the collective atmosphere of Iftar. The Fast-A-Thon is the largest MSA-sponsored event, and last year the event attracted 460 non-Muslims.

This year, MSA is hoping to break that record and have at least 500 non-Muslim participants.

The Fast-A-Thon will occur on Wednesday, Sept. 24. MSA will have a table from 10 to 3 p.m. on the second floor of the Busch Student Center above Au Bon Pain. All are invited to join.

MSA will donate proceeds to a fundraising drive sponsored by the Islamic Relief’s Orphan Drive campaign.