#Muslims4Lent Movement Shows Solidarity With Christians by Observing Lent

"We believe in the power of interfaith dialogue and solidarity. Instead of dwelling on the negative dialogue against Islam, we are choosing to focus on the many people of other faiths that have extended their hands towards the Muslim community to build a friendship and understanding," the movement activists wrote on #Muslims4Lent group on Facebook.

"I'm Sarah Ager a British Muslim. In solidarity with family and friends who are giving something up for Lent and the countless people who supported, encouraged and fasted alongside me during Ramadan, for the next 40 days… No sugar in coffee/tea No random snacking #Muslims4Lent," @SaritaAgerman said on Twitter Friday.

"I'm Samar, an Iraqi Muslim. In solidarity no facebook scrolling for 40 days! #Muslims4Lent," Samar Nafe'a, a 25-year-old from Baghdad, wrote on Facebook.

Other things Muslims are eager to give up during Lent include online shopping, using elevators, music, electronic devices and sweets. Some have promised to commit by caring more about the needs of others or not quarrelling with family and friends.

The Muslim initiative has received many comments from Christian social media users with some wanting to return the favor by joining Muslims for Ramadan in the summer.

"As a christian I am overjoyed to see my Muslim brothers and sisters celebrating #Lent with me this year with #Muslims4Lent," @RenaeLBaker wrote.

This year for Catholics Lent started on February 18 and will end on April 2. Ramadan begins on June 18 and ends on July 16.

The current interfaith solidarity campaign is taking place against a backdrop of rising Islamophobia in Europe. The increase in negative feeling toward Muslims in the EU followed a series of terrorist attacks by radicalized Muslims that took place in Paris in January, 2015.