Covid-19 has taken a toll on the social aspect of our lives, and unfortunately, the religious aspect, too.
Places of worship have been a hotspot for Covid-19, with clusters popping up at multiple churches and mosques around Singapore. Some religious groups made the decision to close their places of worship as early as 15 Feb, and others have since followed. With the ‘Circuit Breaker’ in place, all places of worship are closed.
Good Friday (10 Apr), is the most important event for Christians, yet they won’t be able to celebrate it due to ‘Circuit Breaker’ measures.
Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir, from Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, reached out to Bishop Terry Kee to express his empathy for Christians’ situation, showing the Muslim community’s solidarity with the Christian community during this difficult time for all believers of religions.
In the letter, Dr Nazirudin wished the Christian community well, expressing his understanding that this time was especially difficult for them, given the significance of Good Friday to their religion.
He shared the importance of relying on their strong beliefs during this period, and encouraged both the Christian and Muslim communities refresh their spirits to overcome this grave period.
Highlighting their “commonalities”, he expressed that he believed they could work together now, and in the future to shoulder each other through difficult crises.
Bishop Terry Kee wrote back immediately, thanking Dr Nazirudin for his kind words and encouragement.
He assured Dr Nazirudin that Christians would be able to celebrate Holy Week – including Good Friday and Easter Sunday – via live-streamed services.
Bishop Kee went on to commend Dr Nazirudin’s Ramadan address, acknowledging the Muslim community’s struggles in the coming holy month of Ramadan. He assured Dr Nazirudin that he had faith in the Muslim community’s tenacity, and was certain they’d overcome their struggles.
This heartwarming exchange between 2 religious leaders in Singapore have shown us that religious harmony is possible, despite fundamental differences.
Singapore wouldn’t be where it is today without the racial and religious harmony that we have. Only by supporting one another through tough times like this – regardless of our differences – can we emerge stronger and better as a nation and a people.
Covid-19 might be here to stay if the ‘Circuit Breaker’ doesn’t help curb transmission. Please do your part to make it effective by staying indoors, and observing social distancing when you go outdoors.
Being apart from family and friends isn’t easy, but we’ll have to make do the with Zoom calls and Netflix party for at least 3 more weeks. After all, 3 weeks is better than 3 months, right?
Featured image adapted from Berita Harian and Twitter.
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