Islamic Center Opens Helping Hands to Fresno and Beyond

The Islamic Culture Center of Fresno is more than just a place for Valley Muslims to pray. "Like other religious organizations, (we do) whatever we can to stretch out a helping hand to folks."—ICCF's Reza Nekumanesh The facility at 2111 E. Nees in Fresno...
Photo of Muslims starting the annual pilgrimage

More Than 2 Million Muslims Begin Yearly Hajj Pilgrimage

MECCA, Saudi Arabia — More than 2 million Muslims began the annual hajj pilgrimage at first light on Sunday in Saudi Arabia, circling the cube-shaped Kaaba in Mecca that Islam's faithful face five times each day during their prayers. Muslims believe the haj...
Logo for GV Wire's #RamadanFast

Day 9: Finally, #RamadanFast Gets a Little Easier

What is Ramadan? The short version is, Ramadan is about fasting and spiritual growth. And it occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. What's more, it lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on when...
Flags of Israel and Palestine spattered with blood

Will the Gaza Events Further Polarize the Middle East?

By moving the U.S. embassy from Tel-Aviv to Jerusalem, the United States has added complexity to a situation that was already chaotic. Washington’s move will not change the reality on the ground, as 62 Palestinians have been killed over the last few days. G...
Logo for GV Wire's #RamadanFast

Day 7: When Will I Lose Weight on #RamadanFast?

What is Ramadan? The short version is, Ramadan is about fasting and spiritual growth. And it occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. What's more, it lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on when...
Picture of dates and Ramadan lamp against a silhouette of a sliver of the moon.

What Is Ramadan? Why Do Muslims Fast?

Editor’s note: Mohammad Hassan Khalil, associate professor of religious studies and director of the Muslim Studies Program at Michigan State University, answers six questions about the significance of the Muslim month of fasting. Why is Ramadan Called Ramadan...