Lyn Brown was unable to attend the Indian Muslim Federation's Eid Event on Thursday 15 October, held at East Ham Town Hall.  However, the following message was delivered on her behalf to those attending.

Salaam Alaikum

I’m extremely sorry that I am not able to join you for today’s celebrations, as I know that I would have very much enjoyed being there with you; unfortunately this celebration clashed with me taking two Newham Heroes to meet the Prime Minister at Downing Street. In my absence I would like to wish you all a blessed Eid.

I am always gladdened by this time of year – I believe Eid is a time that highlights the common ground which is shared between our different faiths.

This festival very much reminds me of the messages of Easter that I celebrate as a Christian. Like Easter, Eid marks the end of a month of fasting although, as you will know, our Lent isn’t quite the same as the fast of Ramadan.

I do admire the commitment and self-control required for fasting during that month and Ramadan always brings to mind the time I climbed Mount Toubkal in Morocco with two fasting Sherpa guides. We started the climb at dawn and nothing passed their lips until sunset, which was very late in the evening. I was full of wonder and admiration for their feat and commitment.

In these increasingly troubled times, Ramadan and Eid send out a positive message to the world of mercy, forgiveness, redemption and generosity. Likewise, the messages of Easter. Before Easter there is a period of reflection and self-denial, during Lent, before the Passion and celebration of the Easter weekend, which is a time when we seek forgiveness for our sins and mercy from our God.

Eid, just like Easter, is a time to think of those who are not as fortunate as we are, a time to remember those who have passed away, and a time to spend with friends and loved ones.

In a world where people so often dwell upon the differences between us rather than what unites us, Eid offers a message of hope by celebrating the common ground that many of us share as human beings.

This is a time for reflection by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. We all want a more just society where the poor and the needy do not go unheard, and so we must take time to remember just how important kindness and sacrifice are to a life well lived.

I wish you and your families everlasting peace and prosperity, and may God's blessings be upon you.

Eid Mubarak.