Mosques can operate at 60% capacity for Ramadan; attendees must be vaccinated

With the holy month of Ramadan expected to begin on April 1, the Ministry of Health in new COVID-19 guidelines for the observance announced that mosques can operate at 60 percent capacity for prayers and other religious activities.

The guidelines were crafted with consultation from the Muslim leadership of Guyana to allow for limited participation in activities while still maintaining religious obligations, the National COVID-19 Task Force noted in a press release.

Masjids are asked to make use of outdoor seating to allow for adequate social distancing. All persons must use their own prayer mat.

“As far as reasonably practicable, and where persons are not from the same households, all persons sitting or standing should maintain a physical distance of three to six feet from each other,” the advisory noted.

The guidelines mandate that congregational Iftaals are permitted at 60 percent capacity as well but only if the facility permits. And to avoid overcrowding during Eid Prayers may be conducted at the venue.

Added to that, the Ministry of Health mandates that sick persons, pregnant women, elderly or incapacitated persons, and children under 12 years not attend Masjids during Ramadan.

All attendees must be vaccinated, must wear a face mask, and must sanitize upon entry into the mosque.