Fast for the fasting: Muslims at MUN hosting dinner to educate, help others during Ramadan

Muslim students at Memorial University participating in the holy month of Ramadan this month are inviting people in St. John's to step away from the plate for the day.

The Muslim Students' Associationis holding their second annual fast-a-thon on Monday, and it's set to culminate in a delicious meal of Pakistani Indian food.

But there's a catch: according to MSA President Ahmed Khawer, allparticipants must fast from sunrise to sunset on the day of the meal.

Khawer said it's a way for non-Muslims to understand the purpose of Ramadan and give back for a good cause.

"The purpose is pretty much to kind of experience what the unfortunate might go through," he said.

"You're trying to get closer to god at the same time and you kind of see it's not about yourself."

He said Ramadan is often misunderstood by people not participating and the fast-a-thon is a great way to educate members of the community about the larger purpose.

The MSA is alsoteaming up with Islamic Relief to raise money for those in need.

They're looking for pledges of $60, whichKhawer said will supply an entire family with food for a month.

As for advice for those planning to participate?Khawer saidto take it one step at a time.

"Drink lots of water, it goes by faster than you think," he said.

The MSA will host a presentation at 8 p.m. in the engineer building in room 2006, and food will be served at 9 p.m. sharp.