In light of the current circumstances around Coronavirus and restrictions, with the approach of Ramadan around the corner, GLMCC has been working with other masajid and the Public Health Authorities to agree some critical messages for the holy month.
The main Government message remains unchanged: Hands. Face. Space. This has a few implications for us in Ramadan.
In light of that, Green Lane Mosque announced major changes to Ramadan for 2021
The joint statement from GLMCC’s resident imams detailed these as follows:
1. Taraweeh/Qiyam (night prayers):
“We will be open for taraweeh and want to accommodate as many people as possible. However, we know that we cannot host the thousands that we are accustomed to in pre-Covid years due to social distancing rules. We have therefore increased to 2 congregations to be held each night.
“The advice to everyone is to pray taraweeh locally and stick to one masjid so that you do not spread the virus to other Muslim prayer attendees. We will be joined by the elderly and vulnerable this year and have an ongoing duty to protect everyone.”
2. Iftar (breaking of the fast) and suhoor gatherings (pre-dawn meal):
“We typically feed over 250 people a day for iftar (breaking of the fast) during past Ramadans. Likewise, we feed hundreds for suhoor in the last ten nights. Unfortunately, this will not be possible this year and poses too many hygiene risks.
“Attending iftars (breaking of the fast) at each other’s houses is also not allowed during this period of lockdown. Although we all enjoy the social interaction during Ramadan, this would help to spread the virus between houses.
“Why not donate the money that you would usually spend on an iftar meal to the local foodbank or those in need? See places to donate at www.greenlanemasjid.org/donate”
3. Itikaf (spiritual retreat)
“Again, in light of the current lockdown guidance, this will not be possible this year.”
4. Eid Al Fitr
“We all look forward to our large outdoor Eid gatherings with tens of thousands attending our annual Eid in the Park events. In line with the lockdown rules, we will not be running the annual Eid in the Park celebration for Eid al Fitr this year.
“However, if we remain on the current Government trajectory of coming out of lockdown, we intend to hold six jamats in the masjid as we did last year.”
We have a duty to protect ourselves, our families and others
Officials cited a key passage from the Quran that reads: “If anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind.”
Our dedicated frontline workers, key workers, and particularly the NHS are doing an amazing job at containing and managing the pandemic. Many of them have laid down their lives in the struggle. We need to support their work and protect everyone.
From resident Imams at GLMCC
Source: https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/major-changes-ramadan-2021-mosques-20337440
