Communities across Newcastle came together in a powerful display of unity and compassion during Ramadan, as St Andrew’s Church opened its doors to host a special community Iftar bringing people of all backgrounds together to ‘break fast’ and share in the spirit of togetherness.
The event, titled “Break-Fast @ St Andrew’s Church”, was the result of a simple but meaningful conversation between Rev Mike Hills and Councillor Habib Rahman. With the church already supporting local residents through food donations, the idea emerged to create a more inclusive and welcoming space, particularly for those experiencing food insecurity or homelessness.
What followed was a collaborative effort driven by community organisations and volunteers determined to ensure no one felt excluded.
Led by Monjer Rashid of Diversity Hub, well known for delivering large-scale initiatives such as the ‘One Big Iftar’ the event brought together partners including Biryani Vujon, North East Bangladeshi Awards, Asylum Matters and CultiveIQ, who collectively supported and funded the evening.
Around 200 people attended, with families, community leaders, volunteers and residents gathering under one roof in a celebration of Newcastle’s rich diversity. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with activities for children including face painting and henna, alongside quizzes and raffle prizes that encouraged participation across generations.
Importantly, the event extended beyond those inside the venue. Recognising that some individuals may feel hesitant entering a place of worship, volunteers remained outside offering hot vegan and vegetarian meal packs in a respectful and non-judgemental way. While a small number chose to join the gathering indoors, several others were supported outside, ensuring the event reached some of the city’s most vulnerable residents.
The evening featured reflections from faith leaders, civic representatives and community voices, all reinforcing a shared message of inclusion and belonging.
A particularly moving moment came from Jenosan Yokenthiram, a refugee from Sri Lanka, who spoke about his journey of rebuilding
his life in Newcastle. He said: “I never imagined I would one day be here starting again as an asylum seeker. Those months of waiting were filled with uncertainty, you are safe, but your life is paused. What carried me through was the kindness of people here in Newcastle. I found not just safety, but compassion and a sense of belonging. Today, as I work and volunteer, I am proud to give something back.
Events like this show how powerful community can be, when we share food, we share humanity.”
For organisers, the evening was about more than simply breaking fast.
Monjer Rashid said: “This is what community looks like people coming together, sharing food, and building understanding. These small moments are what create real change.”
Rev Mike Hills added: “St Andrew’s Church is here for everyone. This event shows how places of worship can be spaces of support, hospitality and unity for the whole community.”
Councillor Habib Rahman highlighted the wider impact, saying: “This initiative is about breaking barriers as much as it is about breaking fast. It’s about connecting people and making sure everyone feels part of our city.”
Imam Reza Rahman reflected on the significance of the evening during Ramadan:
“This month teaches us compassion and generosity. To see people of all faiths come together in this way is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity.”
The evening concluded with a Ramadan-themed quiz and raffle led by young volunteers, before attendees came together once more to help clean and restore the church, an act that reflected the collective ownership and respect felt by all who attended.
Latifa Miah, one of the attendees, summed up the spirit of the event, saying:
“It is our responsibility to look after our spaces. Being here today, helping out, it just feels right.”
As Newcastle continues to grow as a diverse and inclusive city, events like “Break-Fast @ St Andrew’s Church” highlight the strength found in community, where simple acts of sharing food can build lasting connections and a deeper sense of belonging for all.
