Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity is a proudly Christian organization that works with people of all faiths and no faith to promote affordable homeownership. Our Interfaith Build for Unity and international award-winning U.N. World Interfaith Harmony Week activities bring together people from diverse faith communities who share the common goal of building homes in partnership with El Paso County workforce families.
Learning about religious holidays from other faith traditions can be an excellent way to build interfaith awareness. Join us in noting these holidays from various traditions:
The Hajj (Islam) June 14-19
One of the five pillars of Islam, the Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca (Makkah), Saudi Arabia, the holy city of Islam. This 14-century-old tradition commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s final visit to Mecca. Adult Muslims who are physically and financially able to make this pilgrimage must do so at least once in their lifetime. The Hajj is the world’s largest yearly gathering, with two million participants converging on Mecca.
Eid-al-Adha (Islam) June 17-20
Eid-al-Adha, celebrated around the end of the Hajj, means “the festival (or feast) of sacrifice.” It commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to obey Allah by sacrificing his son Ismail, who was spared when Allah provided a ram in his place. The feast typically includes animal sacrifice of a sheep or goat, which is shared both by family members and with others in need of food.
Lughnasadh (Druid, Wiccan) Aug. 1
One of four Celtic fire festivals, Lughnasadh, also known as Lammas, commemorates the first day of the harvest season. It falls halfway between the summer solstice and the fall equinox. This Irish Gaelic holiday is named for the sun god Lugh and also honors the sacrifice of the harvest god, John Barleycorn or the Green Man. Druids and Wiccans, as well as other Pagans who observe the Celtic calendar, may celebrate Lughnasadh.
Krishna Janmashtami (Hindu) Aug. 26
Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Gokulashtami and Krishanashtami, is the annual celebration of the god Krishna’s appearance on earth. It’s celebrated in India but also throughout the world by around 930 million people. Festivities may include reading religious texts, drama, dance, song, feast, prayer, incense, and decorations.
