An interfaith message for Eid in lockdown

People of all faiths have joined together to share a message of love and understanding as Eid-ul-Fitr approaches.

The Muslim festival marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.

This year Eid falls on Sunday 24 or Monday 25 May 2020. Eid celebrations are usually large family affairs, with Muslim families visiting one another’s homes to share food and exchange gifts.

With the lockdown restrictions extended, that’s not going to be possible this year.

In the short Eid message video, released by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, faith and community leaders from across the borough share their thoughts on the impact of the Coronavirus crisis on religious worship.

Watch the video message now:

Moulana Rafiq Sufi, Chair of Lancashire Council of Mosques said:

We are living in unprecedented and challenging times. This year Eid is going to feel markedly different due to the pandemic. I humbly request that you celebrate Eid at home with family and only go to the cemetery if essential.

Canon Rowena Pailing from Blackburn Cathedral said:

As Christians and fellow people of faith, we recognise the pain of not being able to gather for prayer or at the graveside or to eat celebratory meals together. But we pray that our Muslim neighbours will have a very safe and happy Eid.

The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Jim Shorrock, added his Eid greeting:

I know this year has been very difficult with fasting and the Covid-19 situation. However I hope our Muslim residents enjoy the upcoming celebrations. Most importantly, stay at home, stay safe, exercise social distancing and look after each other.

Also taking part in the video are Joginder Bhamra, the Interfaith Forum’s Sikh representative, Ashok Chudasama, the Interfaith Forum’s Hindu representative, Richard Foster, the Interfaith Forum’s Buddhist representative, and Rabbi Danny Burgeson, Rabbi for St Anne’s and Blackpool.

Councillor Mohammed Khan, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, added:

While we look forward to celebrating Eid this weekend, we can’t help but think of the family of Aya Hachem and what they must be going through.

Her killing has affected everyone in our local community, no matter their background or belief, and we are united in our sorrow and our sympathy. Blackburn with Darwen has lost a truly inspirational young woman who was making positive contributions to local life, and had aspirations to do so much more.

On Eid day, as I wish Eid Mubarak to my loved ones, my thoughts will also be with Aya’s family.