The Minnesota Muslim community marked the commencement of the month of Ramadan with special late night prayers called the Taraweeh prayers that started at 10:45 PM and lasted until midnight. Most Muslims will wake up around 3 AM to have a light meal called Suhur. Around 4 AM, they will pray the first prayer of the day called the Fajr prayer. Some may decide to take a short nap while others may immerse themselves in reading the Qur'an.
It certainly promises to be a long day but the Muslim community looks forward to the first day of fasting and takes this opportunity to grow spiritually, purify physically, exercise self-control, and increase empathy for the poor.
