Feb 18,2026
Iraqis from different religious communities are preparing for a period of worship and reflection as Christian Lent and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan fall in close proximity this year.
Eastern Catholic churches began their observance of Great Lent on Monday, February 16, 2026. The 40-day fasting season is one of the most significant periods in the Christian calendar, marked by prayer, repentance, and spiritual renewal leading up to Easter.
On the Islamic calendar, the Sunni Endowment Office in Iraq and the Ministry of Endowments in the Kurdistan Region announced that Wednesday will mark the first day of Ramadan. An official statement is also expected from the Supreme Religious Authority in Najaf regarding the start of the holy month.
Because of differences between the Julian and Gregorian calendars used by various Christian churches, along with the lunar calendar that determines Ramadan, the two observances periodically draw near. This year, much of Lent and Ramadan will coincide over the coming weeks.
The timing underscores Iraq’s history of religious diversity and coexistence. In cities across the country, markets and public spaces are seeing preparations for both occasions, as families and communities observe their respective traditions.
Many view the convergence as an opportunity to emphasize peace, solidarity, and stability during a spiritually significant season for both Christians and Muslims.
Source: IraqiNews.com
