Drawing on her lifelong service to St John and her personal faith, Halima Dickie OStJ shares her reflections on the significance of Ramadan, its traditions, and how its values of care, compassion, and service resonate deeply with the ethos of the Order of St John.
With more than 60 years of dedicated service across Fiji, Balclutha, and South Auckland, Halima exemplifies what it means to live the St John values every day. Her commitment reflects the very heart of our mission: caring for people in sickness, distress, suffering, or danger, and strengthening the communities we serve.
Most of her work has been in Youth as a Divisional Manager and in Operations as an Events volunteer, and she currently serves as a Resource Member for the Manukau Area Committee. She became a Serving Sister (now Member, MStJ) in Fiji in 1985 and was promoted to Officer in the Northern Region in 2006 in recognition of her outstanding dedication to the Order.
The accompanying photo shows Halima receiving her 4th bar for 32 years service from Lady Blundell earlier in her career, reflecting Halima’s continued lifelong dedication to St John.
What is the meaning of Ramadan?
Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims, marking when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and renewal, focusing on care, compassion, and service to others.
How Ramadan is Observed
During Ramadan, Muslims engage in practices that nurture the soul and strengthen community:
- Fasting from dawn to sunset (adults only; children, the elderly, and the unwell are exempt)
- Iftar: Evening meals shared with family and community
- Increased prayer, reflection, and acts of charity
- Emphasis on kindness, patience, and forgiveness
- Concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration of gratitude, generosity, and community
Ramadan and the St John Values
Ramadan practices align closely with the values at the heart of St John.
- Helping those in need → Caring for the vulnerable and supporting the community
- Practicing patience and self-discipline → Showing respect, integrity, and professionalism
- Strengthening family and community bonds → Building supportive, compassionate communities
- Giving through charity and service → Serving others selflessly through our work
Ramadan reminds us that care, compassion, and service strengthen both individuals and communities. These values reflect the St John mission: living out our faith through kindness, respect, and service to others.
Supporting Ramadan in St John Communities
- Be mindful that colleagues or community members may be fasting during daylight hours
- Respect prayer times and religious observances
- Encourage a supportive environment that values diversity, inclusion, and empathy
By understanding and supporting Ramadan, we bring the St John ethos of care and service to life in our everyday interactions.
At St John, we celebrate the rich diversity of faiths, cultures, and traditions that strengthen our global family. Ramadan offers an opportunity to reflect on our shared commitment to service, compassion, and community values that unite us across regions and beliefs.
As we continue our mission to serve humanity, may we be inspired by the spirit of Ramadan to deepen our kindness, extend our care, and uphold the dignity of all those we serve.
