This year's theme – "Christians and Muslims: Who Do We Hope to Become Together" – reflects ongoing efforts to bridge religious divides.
The central ceremony will take place at the Missionary House of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate in Poznań, western Poland, featuring readings from both the Bible and the Quran, followed by Muslim and Christian prayers and an exchange of peace.
Father Wojciech Kluj, director of the Institute of Theological Sciences at Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, explained that the theme draws inspiration from the partial overlap of Ramadan and Lent in 2025.
"Although we have different forms of fasting, we share a similar goal: to draw closer to God," he told the Polish Press Agency (PAP).
He emphasised that Christians and Muslims, who together make up nearly two-thirds of the world’s population, can play a key role in fostering peace.
"The most pressing challenge is the lack of peace, and that's where we should focus our efforts," he said.
Islam Day has been observed in Poland since 2001, following a decision by the Polish Bishops’ Conference to establish a dedicated day of prayer focused on Islam.
It takes place shortly after the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and is organised by the Joint Council of Catholics and Muslims, together with the Committee for Dialogue with Non-Christian Religions.
The initiative seeks to promote mutual understanding and help overcome prejudice between the two faith communities.
Father Kluj noted that conflicts often arise from ignorance.
"Islam Day is an opportunity for mutual meetings and conversations, so we can get to know each other better," he said.
According to the Catholic Information Agency (KAI), Muslims have been present in Poland for more than 600 years and, as of 2023, their number is estimated at around 45,000.
(ał)
Source: PAP, KAI