Christians and Muslims in Philadelphia begin seasons of reflection and renewal

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Christians and Muslims across Philadelphia marked the start of two significant religious observances Wednesday, as both Ash Wednesday and the first day of Ramadan fell at the same time this year.

At the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Center City, hundreds gathered for Ash Wednesday services, entering what clergy described as a period of spiritual change.

"A period of real change. A period of real conversion," Father Dennis Gill said before the service.

Archbishop Nelson Perez called it "a time of retreat and introspection and silence. And allowing God to speak to us in our own hearts."

Worshippers filled the pews as they received ashes on their foreheads.

"When we receive the blessed ashes on our forehead, it's a reminder that we are to repent," Gill said.

Just blocks away, members of the Muslim community gathered at Center City Mosque to begin Ramadan.

"It's the only mosque in Center City Philadelphia," said Mohammed Sharif, the mosque's president. He described the start of the holy month as "a huge, huge blessing and it's very special."

Ramadan's focus on fasting, prayer and charity mirrors the Lenten practices observed by Christians.

"Ash Wednesday begins this 40-day period where we do acts of prayer, fasting and almsgiving," Gill said.

Sharif offered a similar reflection: "It's almost like, I guess you could say, if you take your car for a tune-up. You're kind of giving a tune-up to your soul."

Many Christians also choose to make personal sacrifices during Lent.

Perez noted that "Pope Leo, in particular, has asked us to fast from hurtful words to other people."

Acts of kindness are also emphasized during Ramadan.

"The greater tenants of what unites us as humans is the ability to be nice to each other, to respect each other," said mosque member Sara Khan.

Perez said the season is meaningful across faiths.

"It's a moment of intensity for people of faith: the Jewish community, our Muslim brothers and sisters, the Christian world. Because our hearts were made for God," he said.

Center City Mosque often draws crowds that extend onto the sidewalk, and leaders hope to meet a fundraising goal during Ramadan to support expansion.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia also marked another milestone Wednesday: the sixth anniversary of Perez's installation as archbishop.