The Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) has released guidelines for the reopening of masajid, as South Africa eased into Alert Level 2 at midnight on Monday. It follows at least five months of many masajid being closed, with a limited number reopening under Alert Level 3 which was instituted to help save the ailing economy.
Yusufeyyah Masjid in Mosque Road, Wynberg, has become the latest in a string of religious institutions targeted by thieves during the Covid-19 lockdown.
In a statement released by the MJC, they have urged all masajid to ensure strict protocols are ensured at all times. The MJC will consult with medical professionals on the current developments.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that religious gatherings of no more that 50 people will be allowed when the country shifts to lockdown Level 3 next week.
We observe Eid al-Fitr 2020 in an unprecedented manner. With mosques closed and families separated, in Eid we have to forgo our traditional practices of greeting each other by saying “baie slamat vir labarang” (congratulations for Eid), accompanied by congratulatory handshakes, loving kisses and warm hugs. Nonetheless, the dominant emotion that sustains us at this celebratory time of Eid is that of gratitude.