AS the Muslim community prepares to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr for the second time in a pandemic, they must be commended for adjusting the way they worship.
Member of Parliament for Chaguanas West Dinesh Rambally issued greetings on Wednesday.
He said, “The restrictions have presented a great opportunity for families to grow closer and bond in a way like never before, recognising that staying at home during the pandemic in no way reduces the virtues of their Ramadan effort. On the contrary, the importance of showing concern for the less fortunate in society by acts of charity as a pillar of Islam, also encompasses the adherence of Covid-19 protocols including the wearing of masks in public, and social distancing measures which secure the health and safety of others.”
Rambally said the Covid-19 restrictions have not been selective, as other religious communities have been similarly impacted, and the Muslims especially were relying on their faith’s strong discipline to weather the storm of the Government lockdowns to fulfil their religious obligations as best as they are able to.
He said Muslims adjusted greatly with five-member congregations in the mosques, and the curb-side pickup instituted by some mosque leaders for the prepared iftar and aftaari meals which are collected daily at designated points and taken away to be consumed in their homes.
Muslims also employed the latest technology for the benefit of live-streaming over the internet the nightly Taraweeh Qur’anic recitation by the Huffaz, who have memorized the entire scripture, and complete its entire reading during Ramadan.
Rambally said, “The creativity and the flexibility to adapt to the drastic changes in the societal landscape imposed on the Islamic community is worthy of commendation and shows the indomitable spirit of citizens to rise above the hurdles before them.”
The MP said, “The occasion of Eid ul-Fitr 2021, I wish to take the opportunity to wish the Muslim community a blessed and rewarding month of prayer and sacrifice which stands out as a beacon of hope and optimism for the entire nation.”
