Reporting Back: Oliver Ryan MP Burnley, Padiham & Brierfield:
Ramadan & Lent
I hope you’re all keeping well at what feels like a very busy time of year. It is recess from parliament, but I've had a busy week working around town instead of going to London.
This week I want to take the time to reflect about our town and the many different walks of life that make Burnley what it is.
Many of our neighbours this week will mark the start of Ramadan. To all those observing, Ramadan, Mubarak!
I hope this period brings you reflection, hope, and a real sense of togetherness.
One of the things I love most about Ramadan is how it brings people together – first in fasting, and then in breaking that fast together, night after night.
Every time I’ve been invited to join the community for iftar (the meal at sunset when the fast is broken), I’ve been struck by the warmth of the welcome, and the generosity around the table.
It’s always a lovely reminder of how food and faith can bring people closer.
On more than one occasion I’ve arrived at iftar straight from a church mass and been welcomed each time without a second thought. This, to me, is Burnley.
We’re incredibly lucky to live in a community where people look out for each other. You walk down the street and hear a friendly “hiya” or someone stops to chat about how your day’s going because they genuinely want to know. When that happens, I know I’m home.
For many, another important celebration happened this week – pancake day (also known as Shrove Tuesday). I’ve made sure to join in with that tradition too. Any excuse for a few extra pancakes is fine by me!
Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, also a time of reflection and renewal and prayer. I will be observing this period myself, and for others participating, you have my best wishes for the weeks ahead. As a Catholic, I'll be giving up chocolate until Easter!
At times like this, when so many important moments are happening side by side, I’m reminded that there’s far more that brings us together than sets us apart.
The strength and beauty of our town lie in our diversity and history - people not as colours or creeds, but people as people. There is no place for hate here – only respect, community spirit, and the kindness we choose to show one another every day.
So whether you’re fasting, reflecting, or simply getting on with daily life, let’s keep taking the time to share these moments together.
As always, if you have any questions or wish to raise an issue you can contact me at [email protected] or by attending a drop-in at my office, 5 Grimshaw Street between 10am-2pm from Monday to Thursday.