(CBC) For the first time in its history, the oldest mosque in Vancouver will begin broadcasting its evening call to prayer over loudspeakers for the remainder of Ramadan, in order to provide a sense of community during the pandemic.
The azan, or adhan — which summons the faithful for prayers five times a day — will be broadcast from Al Masjid Al Jamia at sundown until May 23. The sunset adhan also signals to those fasting during daylight hours that they can break their fast for the night.
During the pandemic, the call will hold another meaning.
“We are broadcasting the adhan to give hope to our community and all communities that, one day, we’ll all be able to gather in our place,” said Haroon Khan, a trustee at the mosque.
