Should Masjids suspend communal worship?

Should Masjids suspend communal worship?

Question

Currently (as of 20 January 2021), most of the Masjids across Lancashire are open for communal worship (Ṣalāh) whilst taking all the necessary precautions, in accordance with the Government’s regulations and guidelines. However, a few Masjids have suspended communal worship due to the rise in the number of Covid-19 deaths. In light of this, what is your advice to Masjids?

بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم

Answer

During this lockdown, the UK Government has permitted places of worship to remain open in England for communal worship. This reflects the reduced risk of transmission within places of worship due to the rigorous implementation of precautionary measures and recognises the important role of places of worship in looking after the spiritual and psychological needs of people.

Therefore, Masjids should remain open for congregational Ṣalāh and ensure that risk assessments are reviewed regularly and all the necessary precautions and social distancing measures are implemented. Multiple Friday Ṣalāh should also be considered, as necessary. Organising multiple congregational Ṣalāh in the same venue is permitted due to need.

The management committees of the Masjids that have decided to close are strongly urged to reconsider their decision. Ultimately, it is only Allah Almighty who can bring this pandemic to an end. We must collectively turn to Allah during these testing times whilst taking the necessary precautions. Consideration should also be given to the consequences of closing a Masjid, because this inevitably increases pressure on neighbouring Masjids that remain open, particularly on Fridays.

May Allah Almighty protect us all and keep us steadfast on our faith.

Allah knows best

Yusuf Shabbir

6 Jumādā al-Thāniyah 1442 / 20 January 2021

Approved by: Mufti Shabbir Ahmed and Mufti Muhammad Tahir