THE Muslim congregation of Redditch Central Mosque prayed its final Jumu’ah prayer yesterday, writes Shazad Hussain.
After its completion, staff confirmed all prayers at the mosque, including the five daily prayers led by the Imam, had been cancelled until further notice – before shutting its doors to the public amid coronavirus fears.
The Islamic place of worship was one of the few Mosques in the country to continue performing the weekly Jumu’ah prayer.
And worshippers were grateful for that as they left with information, prayer timetables, advice about hoarding and contact details to ease their minds while restrictions are in force.
Chairman of Redditch Central Mosque Rafaqat Hussain, aged 48, said: “A majority decision was made by management to allow Friday prayers to carry on because we are the largest Mosque in the Worcestershire area therefore a lot of people rely on us.
“People didn’t really know what was going on or what services are available to them or who to contact regarding religious matters and so that’s why we decided to proceed with the Jumu’ah prayer.
“It was essential to use the day to notify the public and hopefully they can pass on the valuable information to their families and friends because this is a religious issue as well as a safety issue.”
Mr Hussain revealed they were authorised by the Mosque’sBoard of Trustees to take necessary measures for the safety of the public, the Masjid and its facilities.
“We’re dealing with this pandemic by following the measures taught by the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him like self-isolation and using the extra time we have to practice our religion more and get closer to God.
“We’ve sought advice from health experts and guidance from Islamic jurisprudence as well as scholars.”
“In emergencies where people’s lives are affected, it’s importantwe take the responsibility of leading and giving guidance to the ummah. Although our actions may be drastic, if it saves a life it’s worth it.”
The Mosque’s plan to minimise the risk of Covid-19 was in full play during Friday prayers as staff members wore masks and gloves while tissues and hand sanitisers were also provided.
People with temperatures were not allowed in and physical contact with others was prohibited.
Many of the daily activities the Mosque provides for the community such as Imam services as well as to its students at the Madrasah have also been cancelled.
The Mosque has asked parents of students to ensure their children continue revising at home to maintain their knowledge.
Funeral services have stopped too, and the Mosque has recommended in cases of bereavement people should stay away from visiting each other as this increases the chances of catching the virus.
Instead, it is permissible to make supplication for the deceased from your own home and condolences can be sent over the phone.
The Chairman of the Mosque added there is a very strong likelihood the Government’s instruction to refrain from large social gatherings will still be in effect come Ramadan.
The sacred Islamic month which attracts thousands of worshippers every night was due to begin next month, but with the Muslim Council of Britain calling for the suspension of all congregational activities at UK Mosques it means that the Tarawih prayers could be cancelled too.
“Ramadan starts in four weeks and we don’t think this emergency will be over.
“But we don’t want to scare people so what we’ve done is explained that the Masjid will remain closed and the public is advised to carry on performing their daily as well as the Tarawih prayers at home.
“Imams that work at the Mosque will be here and performing the adhan at the relevant times.
“That way we’re protecting the public but carrying on our requirements from a faith perspective.”
As Ramadan draws nearer, the Mosque has made the move to issue electronic prayer timetables for worshippers to follow and pray at the correct time. But the prayer calendar for Ramadan will only be available after the moon has been sighted.
In the meantime, the Mosque has said it will continue to provide help and support to those who require it and won’t let Covid-19 prevent them from doing so.
“Anybody that needs any sort of help, they can contact the management team and we’ll endeavour to help them with food, medicine and transport without cost.
“We have volunteers who are ready to help pick up things and deliver them to your doors.
“Our services aren’t only extended to Muslims. We’re prepared to help any community regardless of race or religion, any member of the public in Redditch and provide assistance free of charge.
The Mosque is already working hard by planning to have the whole Mosque sanitised, the carpets cleaned and hand sanitisers and tissues put in place in every area of the Mosque for when it reopens.
Their office, located on Jinnah Road, and which typically opens from 9-5pm will remain closed.
However, a member of the reception team will be available to contact on 07312 000 070 or [email protected] general enquiries, emergencies or bereavement cases.
The Mosque will also create a Facebook page as well as set up a Twitter account for the public to send messages and to update the local community on what services the Mosque is providing.
