N.L.'s Muslim community will end Ramadan by celebrating in their new mosque

This weekend marks the end of Ramadan and Muslims in Newfoundland and Labrador will gather to celebrate, just like other years — but this time they'll be doing it in a brand new mosque in St. John's.

The Muslim Association of Newfoundland and Labrador president Haseen Khan said Eid al-Fitr — the end of Ramadan — is typically marked with social visits, gift exchanges, a community dinner, and a prayer.

"We will be offering this prayer at our new mosque, which is a very special event for Muslims in Newfoundland and Labrador," Khan told CBC Radio's The St. John's Morning Show.

"Here, due to the size of community, there will be two Eid prayers, first at 8 a.m. and second at 9 a.m. on this Sunday."

The association officially took over the new mosque, the former Mary Queen of Peace Catholic church, at the end of December, Khan said.

"We have been busy since then in renovating that place to make it ready at least for the Eid prayer, which will be on this Sunday," he said.

"We are very pleased with its capacity, with its location and parking. So we hope that it is going to be the focal point for Muslims in Newfoundland and Labrador for decades to come."

He said Ramadan — which started on Feb. 28 this year — is an opportunity for Muslims to engage in self-reflection, self-discipline as well as caring and communal cohesion.

"It is the most powerful tool for the rejuvenation of the mind, body and soul," he said, adding it's one of the five pillars of Islam.

Population boom

Across the province, Khan said the Muslim population has had "substantial growth." In the 1990s he said there were about 100 Muslims but within the last 20 years the number has grown to about 10,000 Muslims in the province — 80 per cent of them living in the St. John's area.

He feels reassured by the growth, and says Muslim people feeling comfortable and safe living in Newfoundland and Labrador is a testament to the welcoming attitude of the people of the province.

Khan said the community is excited to celebrate in their new mosque.

"We are pleased. All Muslims can pray under one roof and I think this is bringing lots of joy, excitement to the community."

A mosque fulfils many different roles in the community, he added, including as a sanctuary to worship, a school for knowledge and a place of refuge.

"It is a cornerstone in the life of Muslims."

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