Local Muslims’ observance of Ramadan impacted by COVID-19

UPDATED 5/15/202 - For more than 10 years, community leader Sel Buyuksarac, his wife and daughter have hosted hundreds of people for dinners to break the nightly fast. They invite people from all faiths and all walks of life. Due to coronavirus, things were different this year.

Now Buyuksarac said they are hosting a virtual friendship and gratitude Ramadan dinner via Zoom and YouTube Live on Saturday, May 16 at 7 p.m.

The virtual dinner is free, but they are asking for people to RSVP.

Click here for details.

ORIGINAL STORY 4/24/2020 - Ramadan, the holy month observed by Muslims is underway. COVID-19 is changing the way they worship all over the world and here in our area.

Imam Bilal Malik is encouraging local Muslims to pray from their homes. The Imam will be live-streaming special nightly prayers on the Islamic Center’s Facebook page starting at 9 p.m.

Imam Malik said he is comforting worshipers with this message. “The simple message is: try to get closer to the Almighty, to God. That’s the only way I believe. Once I am more closer to Almighty God the stress, the anxiety goes down,” he said.

The Imam says typically 300 to 400 people would gather at the Islamic Center each day during Ramadan.

A local man says COVID-19 is impacting his annual Ramadan tradition to connect with the community. For more than 10 years, community leader Sel Buyuksarac, his wife and daughter have hosted hundreds of people for dinners to break the nightly fast. They invite people from all faiths and all walks of life. Due to coronavirus, the family won't be hosting the dinners this year. Buyuksarac said it was a tough decision to make.

“They love the connections learning from each other and sharing the stories,” he said. “Honestly, it is the saddest thing for us. First time ever we are going to celebrate Ramadan and breaking the fast just the two of us and including my daughter. It is really heartbreaking.”

Buyuksarac said if restrictions on gatherings are lifted by the end of Ramadan - and if it is safe to do so - he may try to hold a gathering.

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