Jumu’ah held under ‘new normal’

SCORES of Muslims congregated at the San Fernando Jama Masjid on Friday for Jumu’ah (prayers) – the first public prayers session since March – with the imam saying all worshippers must adhere to the “new normal” health guidelines because of the covid19 virus.

Maulana Atif Majeed told Newsday the congregation at the Mucurapo Street mosque comprised mainly of men but a small number of women also attended.

“It was not at full capacity as only the brothers (adult males) were allowed to attend. From next week, the sisters can come out,” Majeed said.

“At this time, we are not encouraging the children, the elderly, people with medical problems or who are prone to catch illnesses, into the mosque.” Majeed said it was a precautionary measure until proper arrangements are made for their comfort and safety.

“We do not want everyone to come out at the same time. It is to decrease chances of the coronavirus from spreading,” Majeed said while at the mosque.

On March 29, Government closed all places of worship to control and prevent the spread of the covid19 virus. But last Sunday, the Prime Minister announced the date for the re-opening of places of worship to be Thursday which was Corpus Christi and a public holiday.

“This is first day Muslims in TT congregated together since the restrictions were lifted. Friday is a very important day for Muslims to get together,” the imam said. Jumu’ah started shortly after noon and ended less than an hour later.

After the prayers, worshippers distributed meals to the needy. The imam added that throughout the implementation of the stay-at-home measures, members of the were distributing hampers and meals. He vowed that such initiative will continue at the mosque, Harris Promenade and the King’s Wharf in San Fernando.

On the building, there were several signs regarding the virus such as proper hygiene practices. The imam is also requesting that worshippers pray their Sunnah and Nawafil Salaah, at home. Among the worshippers was Local Govt Minister Kazim Hosein.