The Fiqh Council of North America is alarmed at the spike of COVID 19 cases and related deaths in various cities and states after relaxation of restrictions. The Council advises the Muslim community of Canada and America to be diligent, careful and cautious about reopening the masjids. We recognize the importance of opening masjids for daily and weekly prayers and wish the masjids to be opened sooner than later but not at the expense of human lives and sufferings. There are many Muslim families who have suffered the pains of quarantine, isolation, hospitalization and even death due to this pandemic. The emotional scars of COVID 19 are too visible to be ignored. The second surge of viral transmission after easing restrictions is too worrisome to be shoved aside. The business is not as usual, and the community must not lower its guards.

The Council urges Muslim communities and their Masajid managements to strictly follow their State and County guidelines regarding Covid-19. Those who are unable to comply with the guidelines due to lack of human or financial resources, are advised not to rush in opening their masajid until they are fully prepared. Violations of the guidelines may be harmful for the health or life of their congregants. We advise a careful and phased opening. This is not the time of emotions and passions but of somber, serene and keen analysis of medical facts and scientific data. A precautionary approach especially in trying times is divinely required and taking divine concessions is as valid as abiding by the divine commandments.

Covid-19 is still here, and its fury has not abated. The numbers of COVID related deaths and hospitalizations are higher in some cities than the initial statistics when we originally closed the masjids. Under the circumstances, Muslims are not obligated to attend the daily Jama’ah or Jumu’ah prayers in the masajid. Those who want to attend the masajid must take all the precautions to protect themselves and protect others. It is forbidden for those who have any symptoms of COVID to attend the mosques. In case of doubt, doctors should be consulted.

Insha’Allah, soon the masjids will be open for daily and weekly congregational prayers and we will be able to go back to our beloved places of worship safely. May Allah SWT make it easy for us.

[June 2, 2020]