‘Big relief ’ to get back into ‘some sort of routine’ as Muslims return to mosques to worship together

After months, Muslims have been able to gather for prayers again, albeit with physical distancing.

Across Scotland, mosques are able to open their doors and bring together people for prayers for the first time in months.

It has been a challenging time for Muslims, who had to have extremely subdued Ramadan and Eid celebrations.

In Aberdeen, Masjid Alhikmah and Community Centre has now been able to reopen.

The mosque, the second in the city, now has an online ticketing system in place to ensure staggered congregational prayers.

The mosque’s Farooq Durrani said: “It was an extremely busy, yet exciting first day.

“This has been a challenging time for everyone, particularly those who live alone, and having to keep the mosque shut during Eid and Ramadan was of course very different for us.

“Throughout lockdown we have been doing virtual services and the community has been great in helping each other.

“But of course it is great to get back into some sort of routine, albeit with social distancing, and it’s been a big relief for everyone. People have been so patient.

“Safety remains paramount and we are ensuring we have staggered congregational prayers.

“The advice from the Scottish Government has been very helpful.”

Inverness Masjid and the Highlands Islamic Education and Community Centre has also opened after weeks of preparation.

Like in Aberdeen, the north’s Muslim community has been doing what it can to support its own members, and the wider city of Inverness, during lockdown.

They have distributed food parcels to vulnerable people, held online services and worked with other organisations to help the homeless population.

“People have been so patient”

Photograph by Sandy McCook UPBEAT: Debi and Ronald Mackenzie with their vessel Spirit of Loch Ness.