On 24th of March, in the heart of Cambridge, the historic Guildhall was transformed into a vibrant gathering place for unity, dialogue, and cultural celebration. The Community Multi-Cultural Iftar, held under the theme “Share Food, Share Friendship”, brought together people of all faiths and backgrounds to mark the holy month of Ramadan — and to celebrate the strength of community through shared experience.
The event was hosted by Abdul-Kayum Arain, Chair of the Cambridge Muslim Trust, and friend of our Order, whose warm and inclusive leadership set the tone for a truly memorable evening. His thoughtful opening remarks welcomed all guests into a shared space of reflection, hospitality, and hope.
The Order of St George the Martyr was honoured to be invited to this deeply meaningful event.
Our Grand Master, Robert Dryden, was among the featured speakers, addressing the gathering with words that echoed the spirit of harmony and mutual respect that defined the evening.
“This evening is not merely about sharing a meal”, the Grand Master said in his speech. “It is about sharing stories, traditions, and values that connect us as human beings... creating a tapestry of mutual respect and harmony that transcends boundaries of faith, culture, and background”.
The evening’s programme reflected this sentiment through a diverse and thoughtful schedule, beginning with opening remarks from Mayor Baiju Thittala, an interfaith prayer led by Imam Sejad Medic, and a series of talks by religious and civic leaders including Mike Frankl (Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue), The Very Revd Mark Bonney (Dean of Ely Cathedral), and Mrs Jennifer Crompton, His Majesty’s Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire.
Table discussions allowed participants to reflect personally and share stories, fostering authentic conversations across lines of difference. At sunset, the fast was broken in the traditional way — with dates and rose sorbet or water — followed by Maghrib prayer and continued fellowship over a shared meal.
Throughout the evening, the Order stood alongside civic, religious, and community leaders in a shared commitment to social harmony, interfaith dialogue, and inclusive charitable action. Representing the Order were not only our Grand Master, but also members actively involved in ongoing multicultural initiatives, including recent support for the Cambridge Memorial Fountain and international outreach efforts.
We were especially heartened to see representatives from organisations like Islamic Relief, the Cambridge Mosque Council, Citizens UK, Anglia Ruskin University, Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue, Mill Road Traders, the Little Bulgaria UK, and many others — all working together in solidarity.
The Iftar was not just an event — it was a reminder of our shared responsibility to build bridges, and of the power of compassion, hospitality, and respect in healing divides and strengthening our communities.
As our Grand Master remarked in his closing words:
“Let us continue to build the bridges that unite us, not only for tonight but for many nights and days to come.”
The Order of St George the Martyr remains committed to this mission — to serve as a bridge between cultures, faiths, and generations, and to support those who work tirelessly for the common good.
We extend our deepest thanks to the organisers, speakers, and every guest who made the evening so memorable. May the spirit of “Share Food, Share Friendship” guide us all in the days ahead.