Methodist Minister Observes Ramadan in Solidarity with Muslims

(ROWLETT, Texas) -- A Methodist minister in Rowlett is observing Ramadan in solidarity with Muslims, ABC affiliate WFAA-TV reports.

Rev. Dr. Wes Magruder, a senior associate pastor of First United Methodist Church of Rowlett, has decided to fast along with his friend Imam Yaseen Shaikh, the leader of the Islamic Association of Collin County in Plano.

"I have no doubt that Muslims and Christians worship the same God," Magruder said. "We have some of the same core foundations."

To observe Ramadan, Magruder will abstain from food, drink and water from dawn to sunset.

"My initial thought was that he's crazy, because it's pretty intense," Shaikh said. "However, when I understood his intentions of solidarity — wanting to walk in the shoes of a Muslim for a month — then it was very encouraging and inspiring."

Shaikh said Muslims also abstain from speaking ill of others, using profanity or smoking during Ramadan.

Magruder started getting 5,000 hits a day this week on his blog, from Indonesia, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, he said.

"The Muslims who are responding have all been extremely supportive. They've offered tips on how to make it through the fast," he said.

Shaikh said he's never heard of someone willing to observe fast, but that he appreciates Magruder's effort.

"I think it sends a message of unity of mankind," he said. "We may have differences, but our differences are there to be celebrated."

Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio