In a time when murders continue unabated, an imam yesterday called on youths to turn to God instead of guns.
Speaking at the 17th annual open air Eid Salaat at the La Romaine Secondary School, Imam Yaseen Fernandez called on Muslims to remember Prophet Muhammad’s message of peace. He said guns and bombs were not the way.
Fernandez, of the La Romaine ASJA Jamaat, told reporters afterwards: “The youths today are desperate and they looking for a way out. The easiest thing for them to do is to take up a gun and start to shoot, that is not the way.
“Instead of gun is God. Do not turn towards the gun, turn towards God. This is the way out.
“This is my advice to all of them out there, because they are desperate and they are looking for a way out and we are supposed to help them and guide them and make sure they do not go that way, but come to the way of the Creator, God Almighty. That is the only way peace will come.”
He said Allah sent people here to help others and make them good, not bad.
Fernandez was moved to tears during the last prayer before Muslims broke fast, as he asked Allah for forgiveness, guidance and protection for all Muslims throughout the country and world. Calling on Muslims to follow the way of Muhammad, he said the first step is to spread peace.
“Before you leave here this morning spread peace. This the first step of softening your heart.” He said the next step was to share food.
“That’s what brings the human race together, peace and food.”
The other step, he said, was maintaining family ties. And the final step, he said, was prayer. Saying the world has not followed the ways of Muhammad, he asked where was the peace in Phillistine, Syria and other parts of the world.
Following the prayer service alms were given out to several people and children who were waiting on the outskirts under a tent.