Eleventh International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

The pandemic that struck the world and basically brought all activities to a standstill had a significant impact on the Muslim Community in Victoria. For over six months all our mosques have been shut down and the community missed the connection with their mosques which not only is a place of worship but also community gatherings and socialising. The Muslim community is community oriented and this was felt more during the Ramadan period and the two festivals that followed. Although initially this caused a lot of sadness and distress, the community showed its resilient spirit by finding ways and means to connect as well as keep each other comforted. Each time the number of COVID cases arose and more restrictions place on the movement of the community members one thing that stood our was the support they gave each other through the various communication channels. For Muslims unlike other faiths although online platforms do not work for congregation prayers and community celebrations as we needed the physical connection for them to be valid. This loss of connection with faith affected many especially the youth. There was frustration and anger levelled at those in charge and in leadership as sell outs and government stooges. Rituals and intention is a major part of the faith and the lock downs did not help. Mental isolation, family violence, financial hardship was felt in the community which talks of around 45% below the age of 35 and in casual work force.