NEWSDAY – Asking the Clergy: How can the faithful preserving traditions during pandemic?
The coronavirus pandemic is impacting Long Island as Easter, Passover and Ramadan approach. This week’s clergy discuss how traditions can be preserved amid social upheaval.
The Rev. Kevin O’Hara
Pastor, Lutheran Church of Our Savior, Patchogue
Our first Easter was wrapped in mystery, worry and death, yet God proclaimed life. When we last celebrated in our church on March 15, we proclaimed life in the midst of death and hope even as our hearts were breaking. We vowed to celebrate Easter when we set foot back in the church building. Until then, the actual celebration of Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday will look vastly different from that first Easter, anything but business as usual…
Adnan Pasha
President, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Long Island Chapter
Ramadan, the universal month of fasting in Islam, is one of the most important times for Muslims. It is a form of worshipping God and is one of the pillars of Islam. When observed properly within prescribed conditions, it is the best way to enhance one’s spirituality and develop a stronger bond with God Almighty. During Ramadan, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community on Long Island has a tradition of inviting members of the Baitul Huda Mosque in Amityville to collectively break fast on weekends. Together we listen to readings of the Quran, then we offer congregational prayers. Given the COVID-19 pandemic, it is very likely, sadly, that we will have to postpone such events for the safety and security of people…
Rabbi Shalom Ber Cohen
Village Chabad (Stony Brook)
Assuming the coronavirus situation persists — with people indoors, particularly older people and others at risk — this may be the toughest Passover for world Jewry in decades. It may be natural to think we should pass over “Passover.” After all, it’s hard to get food; we can’t invite guests; it will be a strain to get ready. The default setting during trying times is often to lose faith and the inclination to celebrate until better days…
