Celebrating Ramadan in 2020

Photo: Abdul Qaiyoom - stock.adobe.com

Ramadan Mubarak to our readers

As the holy month of Ramadan starts this week, we would like to say Ramadan Mubarak to all our Muslim readers. May the blessings of the month Ramadan be on you all.

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and is observed worldwide by Muslims as a month for fasting. It is believed to be the month when the Holy Qur’an was revealed and honours the values at the heart of Islam, such as compassion and service to others.

Mosques are at the centre of activities associated with Ramadan meaning partaking in religious rituals will be challenging for many, following the temporary closure of places of worship and suspension of congregational prayers due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Rochdale Council of Mosques (RCOM) has advised all mosques in the borough to adhere to Government guidance by worshipping from home and avoiding praying in large groups during the holy month of Ramadan.  

Tahir Mahmood, Chair of Rochdale Council of Mosques said: "We have advised people to perform daily prayers at home with members of their household only or individually as extra late evening congregational Taraweeh prayers in the mosque will not take place to help stop the spread of Covid-19 and save lives.

"This is the first time that mosques will be closed during a significant time of the year in the Muslim calendar, we know that will be very difficult and challenging but at the same time we are making sacrifices for the greater good.

"The month of Ramadan is expected to commence on Friday 24 April or Saturday 25 April depending on the sighting of the new crescent moon [the Muslim calendar is based on a lunar cycle].

"On behalf of the RCOM we would like to wish everyone marking this month of fasting a very happy, healthy and peaceful Ramadan. We hope that Ramadan at home will be a safe and pleasant one for everyone. We send peace and blessings to everyone in the borough and pray for an end to this pandemic - stay home and save lives, we’re all in this together."