Hari Raya was a different affair for many of our Muslim friends this year. Instead of gathering with friends and family to feast, many celebrated over Zoom calls and virtual meals.
Covid-19 affected festivities worldwide, but observers managed to find ways to adapt.
A group of Muslims in Germany showed us how to hold prayers while social distancing, gathering over 700 people in an IKEA car park.
You can watch a video of the full event here.
Since mosques are enclosed spaces, many haven’t been open to the public since the Covid-19 crisis reached pandemic levels.
Throughout the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world had to forsake congregational prayers at mosques.
Understanding the significance of Hari Raya or Eid, however, the Islamic Community Milli Goruş (IGMG) in Germany decided to organise a one-time mass prayer session.
Needing a huge venue to ensure safe distancing, they approached IKEA, asking to use their car park for the event.
Thankfully, the homeware giant gladly agreed, and allowed over 700 Muslims to celebrate the end of Ramadan in their car park last Sunday (24 May).
Hundreds of people praying in synchrony despite the circumstances was a sight to behold.
Before they could join the prayers, all participants had to register at the entrance.
Most of them seemed to be wearing masks too, protecting themselves from infection.
Each congregant had to bring his own prayer mat, and maintain a 1-metre distance from the next person in all directions.
To address the large crowd, the Imam even stood atop a platform, and delivered a sermon while keeping his mask on.
These days, it’s rare to see a crowd of any sort, much less a socially-distanced one.
It certainly was touching to see the dedication and spirit of a community coming together to overcome difficulties during precarious situations like now.
Although their celebrations weren’t as grand, and were definitely more solemn, they held much greater meaning than ever before.
The Muslim community has showed us that life still goes on, even with Covid-19 restrictions in place.
Whether it’s socially-distanced prayers, chicken nuggets or giving a neighbour a gift, there are many ways to keep traditions going and celebrate the things we’re grateful for, even if they’re a little unconventional.
After all, with things returning to a ‘new normal’ in the future, we just might have to get used to doing things differently.
Featured image adapted from Facebook.
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