Jamal Gilani

14
Jan
2021

PRE-REGISTRATION process only for Jummah Prayers

Dear Community Members Assalam-O-Alaikum,
We appreciate and respect your love towards Markaz-ul-Islam as hundreds of you visit here every Friday with an intention to pray Jummah at this Masjid. However, due to very stringent rules enforced by all levels of governments, we are sadly unable to accommodate every one. We are continuously being monitored and warned by authorities to ensure 100% compliance.That being said, we are going back to the online PRE-REGISTRATION process for only Jummah Prayers. Please ensure to register immediately using this link https://markazjummah-apr09.eventbrite.ca/ come for Jummah prayer only upon receiving a confirmation email from Eventbrite, and keep that proof ready to show our volunteers at Masjid doors.We sincerely apologize for this hassle but we have no other viable choice to avoid long and prohibited line ups at our premises causing serious health and safety issues.

In-Sha-Allah, 350 brothers will be accommodated in FIVE Jumma prayers @ 70 brothers (only) in each prayer.

1st Iqama at 2:00pm
2nd Iqama at 2:30pm
3rd Iqama at 3:00pm
4th Iqama at 3:30pm
5th Iqama at 4:00pm
6th Iqama at 4:30pm

We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this un-precedented difficult time.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Jummah prayer registrations are open Wednesday morning at 12am via an email invite to all previous attendees and a new event link is shared for new registrations at Markaz Facebook page, Website and WhatsApp group by noon.

Please register for only one prayer at your preferred time. Multiple registrations will disqualify and be cancelled. Please arrive at Masjid just 5-10 mins before your confirmed prayer time to avoid big gatherings at Markaz premises. We greatly appreciate your cooperation in following all COVID SOPs and directions of our volunteers.

 
Do remember the Ummah of Nabi Muhammad (SAW) in your Duaas.
Jazzak Allah Khair
Markaz Ul Islam
Posted by Jamal Gilani in Religious Activities, Social
24
Mar
2020

Update 10: COVID-19 pandemic in Alberta (March 23 at 5:00 p.m.)

March 23, 2020 Media inquiries

Forty-two additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed, bringing the total number of cases in the province to 301. Aggressive public health measures continue to help limit the spread of COVID-19.

Latest updates

  • Cases have been identified in all zones across the province:
    • 188 cases in the Calgary zone
    • 68 cases in the Edmonton zone
    • 19 cases in the North zone
    • 17 cases in the Central zone
    • Eight cases in the South zone
  • Of these cases, 18 are currently hospitalized, seven have been admitted to intensive care units (ICU), and one patient has died. One case is unknown as the zone is being determined.
  • The number of confirmed recovered cases remains at three. A longer-term process for determining timely reporting of recovered cases is underway.
  • Aggregate data, showing cases by age range and zone, as well as by local geographical areas, is available online at alberta.ca/covid19statistics.
  • Travellers who returned to Alberta after March 12 and have mild symptoms will no longer be tested for COVID-19. Instead, the same advice applied to all Albertans will apply to them – to self-isolate at home and away from others. This change is effective going forward, so anyone who has already been told by Health Link that they will be tested will still get tested.
  • Testing will be prioritized for the following individuals, if they are symptomatic:
    • People who are hospitalized with respiratory illness.
    • Residents of continuing care and other similar facilities.
    • People who returned from travelling abroad between March 8 and 12, before the self-isolation protocols were in place.
  • Anyone with symptoms who does not fit any of these categories should stay home and self-isolate for a minimum of 10 days from the start of their symptoms, or until symptoms resolve, whichever is longer.
  • Several people have contacted AHS to offer their help as health-care volunteers. Though the outpouring of support is appreciated, at this time volunteer resources will be reaching out to contact registered volunteers where needed. For more information, Alberta Health Services has guidelines in place online.
  • A bonspiel event was held in Edmonton March 11 to 14, during which some physicians were exposed to COVID-19. We have determined that 11 of the 47 Alberta health-care workers who attended the event have now tested positive for COVID-19. Many of these are physicians. Some of these individuals worked early last week before notification came through of the case associated with the event, and all contacts are being notified as per usual local public health followup. More information will be communicated as details are confirmed.
  • People not experiencing symptoms are being reminded that they can and should get outside, keeping in mind the importance of social distancing and restrictions on mass gatherings.
  • Albertans should consider remaining close to their home communities and avoid driving long distances to participate in outdoor activities, particularly in mountain parks. Many of the services Albertans are used to having, like washrooms, rest stops and restaurants, are closed on Alberta highways, in parks and at tourist attractions.
  • AHS has launched a new text-based service to give Albertans encouragement and ease feelings of stress or anxiety as they respond to recent challenges. Albertans can text COVID19Hope to 393939. In response, they will receive daily text messages on how to focus on healthy thinking or actions to help them manage their mood.
  • All Albertans need to work together to overcome COVID-19. Albertans are asked to share acts of kindness they have experienced in their community during this difficult time by using the hashtag #AlbertaCares.
  • To reinforce this message, government has released a video to encourage people to help prevent the spread.

WCB premium payment deferral

Small, medium and large private sector employers can defer WCB premiums until early 2021.

Employers who have already paid their WCB premium payment for 2020-21 are eligible for a rebate or credit.

For small and medium businesses, the government will cover 50 per cent of the premium when it is due.

Large employers will also receive a break by having their 2020 WCB premium payments deferred until early 2021, at which time their premiums will be due.

Service changes

Community and Social Services has suspended in-person service delivery in its program offices and Alberta Supports Centres. Albertans should contact 1-877-644-9992 for more information.

Support for homeless

To date, there have been no cases of COVID-19 reported at homeless shelters. Government is providing $25 million to support homeless-serving agencies respond to COVID-19. A number of supports are being offered throughout the province.

City of Edmonton

  • The Edmonton EXPO Centre is being activated as an isolation and care centre.
  • Hope Mission and The Mustard Seed will activate additional capacity to meet social distancing guidelines.

City of Calgary

  • Isolation and care will operate out of hotel rooms.
  • Alpha House, the Calgary Drop-In Centre, The Mustard Seed and Inn from the Cold will activate additional spaces to meet social distancing guidelines.

City of Red Deer

  • Safe Harbour Society has relocated to accommodate an additional 100 spaces.

Additional capacity and isolation centres for Lethbridge, Red Deer and Grande Prairie are being confirmed.

Fort McMurray and Medicine Hat have shelter capacity to implement social distancing recommendations. The Government of Alberta will continue to monitor the situation in those communities.

Access to Justice

The Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench has suspended booking any new non-emergency or non-urgent matters until May 1.

Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench information: https://www.albertacourts.ca/qb/resources/announcements/covid-19-extension-of-suspension-of-sittings

Seniors facilities limiting visitation

Seniors facilities are receiving social isolation and distancing information, and stronger restrictions are being put in place for visitors to long-term and seniors care facilities. Essential visitors will be restricted to a single individual who can be family, a friend, or a paid companion who provides care and companionship necessary for the well-being of the resident (physical and mental health) and/or a single designated visitor for a person who is dying, as long as only one visitor enters the facility at a time. Every visitor will undergo a health screening.

Offers of help

The Alberta Emergency Management Agency Unsolicited Offers Program has been set up in response to growing offers of generosity from individuals and organizations to help with the challenges many Albertans are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those wanting to help can go to alberta.ca/COVID19offersprogram for more information.

General information for citizens

The Alberta Connects Contact Centre is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Albertans can call toll-free from anywhere in the province by dialling 310-4455 for general information about the Government of Alberta and its response to COVID-19, or for help contacting individual program areas.

This line cannot provide medical advice. Anyone who has health concerns or is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should complete an online COVID-19 self-assessment.

Information for travellers

An official global travel advisory is in effect. Albertans should follow all travel recommendations.

  • Avoid all non-essential travel outside Canada and all cruise ship travel.
  • Canadians abroad should return home immediately.
  • Returning travellers should:
    • follow self-isolation guidelines and monitor for symptoms for 14 days
    • check recent domestic and international flights for confirmed cases (information is updated as cases are confirmed)

More information can be found under travel advice at alberta.ca/COVID19.

The Alberta government and Travel Alberta have launched a campaign to inform Canadians travelling in the United States and Mexico about the importance of returning home.

COVID-19 related information has been provided for departing and returning passengers at the international airports in both Edmonton and Calgary. This information has also been shared with all airports in Alberta and several airlines.

Quick facts

  • The most important measures that Albertans can take to prevent respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, is to practise good hygiene.
    • This includes cleaning your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds, avoiding touching your face, coughing or sneezing into your elbow or sleeve, disposing of tissues appropriately, and staying home and away from others if you are sick.
  • Anyone who has health concerns or is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should complete an online COVID-19 self-assessment.
  • For recommendations on protecting yourself and your community, visit alberta.ca/COVID19.

Related information

Multimedia

Media inquiries

Tom McMillan

780-422-4905
Assistant Communications Director, Health
Posted by Jamal Gilani in Social
23
Mar
2020

Markaz UL Islam Temporary Suspension of our 5 times daily congregational prayers along with Jumma prayers

Trust all of you and your family members are doing good by the grace and mercy of Allah SWT.
As most of you are aware, the spreading of Corona Virus and resulting deaths are on an exponential rise and the governments around the globe including Canadian and Alberta are more and more tightening down their jurisdictions just to control this spread. As law-abiding citizens, it’s our obligation to respect and follow these social distancing instructions to show solidarity with our country fellows and communities-at-large.
In this regard, with a very heavy and sad heart, we at Markaz-ul-Islam along with 98% other Masajid and Musallas in Edmonton announce the Temporary Suspension of our 5 times daily congregational prayers and Jumma prayers (already suspended) with effect from midnight tonight until further notice. Only our Imam and Admin. Staff will be allowed to enter the Masjid during this Closure period.
We request your cooperation and forgiveness for this huge inconvenience. We beg to Allah SWT for His forgiveness and mercies upon the entire humanity as the entire planet goes through this Test.
We”ll continue to regularly communicate with our community via our e-mail database and social media. During this tough time, please don’t hesitate to contact us via shoora@markaz.ca for any help we can provide within our mandate.
Jazakumullah Khairun!
Best Regards,
Markaz-ul-Islam Board
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How to do Jamaat with the family at home

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Posted by Jamal Gilani in Religious Activities
19
Mar
2020

 COVID-19 Update – March 18 + Update on Access to the Justice System

Hi Everyone, please find attached information (announced yesterday) on the Government of Alberta support during the COVID-19 crisis as well as an update on access to the Justice system during this time.

Mandi Johnson

Chief of Staff, Office of the Minister

Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women – Hon. Leela Aheer

Protecting Alberta’s families and economy

March 18, 2020 Media inquiries

The government is providing immediate financial assistance to Albertans affected by the COVID-19 crisis.

New funding and supportive measures will provide immediate financial relief to Alberta’s families, vulnerable populations, local businesses, and employers.

“Albertans are doing their part to keep each other safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19. We are doing ours by assisting Albertans and their families, protecting jobs and supporting workers and employers. We will help shelter Albertans from the economic disruption of COVID-19 now, and position Alberta’s industry and businesses to bounce back when the situation stabilizes. This is an initial set of measures, and more will follow in the days to come.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

Financial supports for Albertans

Albertans should be focused on their health and not worry about whether they can pay their bills, so the government has put a number of options in place for those struggling financially:

  • Emergency Isolation Support: $50 million
    • This will be a temporary program for working adult Albertans who must self-isolate because they meet the Government of Alberta’s published criteria for self-isolation, including persons who are the sole caregiver for a dependent who must self-isolate because they meet the public health criteria, and who will not have another source of pay or compensation while they are self-isolated.
    • It will be distributed in one payment installment and will bridge the gap until the federal emergency payments begin in April.
    • We expect the program to be accessible by a simple online application through alberta.ca next week and that funds will be deposited in the accounts of eligible recipients beginning at that time.
  • Utility payment holiday
    • Residential, farm and small commercial customers can defer bill payments for the next 90 days to ensure no one will be cut off from these services during this time of crisis.
    • This will cover electricity and natural gas, regardless of the service provider.
  • Student loans repayment holiday
    • The government will implement a six-month, interest-free moratorium on Alberta student loan payments for all individuals who are in the process of repaying these loans.

Banks and credit unions

  • ATB Financial customers impacted by COVID-19
    • Personal banking customers can apply for a deferral on their ATB loans, lines of credit, and mortgages for up to six months.
    • Small business customers, in addition to payment deferrals on loans and lines of credit, will be provided access to additional working capital.
    • For other business and agriculture customers, ATB will work with customers on a one-on-one basis and further solutions are being considered at this time.
    • For more information on ATB’s relief program, please visit their website.
  • Alberta credit unions
    • Credit union members will have access to a variety of programs and solutions designed to ease difficulties with loan payments and short-term cash flow.
    • Both individual and business members are encouraged to proactively contact their credit union directly to work out a plan for their personal situation.

Employers

Alberta employers are facing significant challenges and uncertainty. To give them increased access to cash in order to pay employees, address debts and continue operations, the government will:

  • defer the collection of corporate income tax balances and installment payments, due after today, until Aug. 31, 2020. This gives Alberta businesses access to about $1.5 billion in funds to help them cope with the COVID-19 crisis.

“In these exceptional circumstances, having cash on hand is vital to families and employers and it’s critical we give Albertans this certainty and support. This tax measure will provide timely relief and additional runway for businesses to continue operating and compensating their employees during this difficult time.”

Travis Toews, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance

Alberta is pleased the federal government has responded to concerns and has taken the recommendation to increase supports to people receiving Employment Insurance. Alberta has contributed far more to the federal government in employment insurance (EI) premiums than it receives in EI support, so it is good to see the federal government providing the support Albertans need in these difficult times.

Relief measures already in place

Albertans, seniors, and vulnerable groups

  • Charitable and non-profit groups will immediately receive an additional $60 million to support seniors and other vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by COVID-19. This is in addition to the $3.9 billion for community and social services allocated in Budget 2020.

Health care for Albertans

  • The Government of Alberta has committed $500 million extra this year to respond to the public health crisis and to support front-line health professionals working to keep Albertans safe and healthy. This is in addition to the record-high $20.6 billion allocated for health care in Budget 2020. A further $58 million has been allocated to Alberta health care for COVID-19 response by the federal government.

Related information

Multimedia

Watch the news conference

Access to justice services

Family, professional and volunteer visits to all Alberta provincial correctional facilities and young offender centers are suspended until further notice. If defense counsel require an in-person meeting, they must contact the appropriate center director. If families have questions about their loved ones, they should contact the center director.

Current jury trials are proceeding; jurors are required to report to the court. Any counsel or juror showing symptoms should contact the court to seek instructions from the presiding judge. Those who received a summons to attend jury selection between March 16 and May 31 are released and do not need to attend.

Legal Aid Alberta intake services at the Edmonton and Calgary courthouses are closed until further notice. To apply for Legal Aid services, call the Client Contact Centre at 1-866-845-3425, Monday to Friday between 8:15 a.m. and 4:15 p.m.

Traffic First-Appearance Centres are closed until further notice. Albertans can visit www.albertacourts.ca/pc/resources/pay-fines to pay for traffic tickets.

Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench information: www.albertacourts.ca/qb/resources/announcements/covid-19-suspension-of-sittings.

Provincial Court of Alberta information: https://www.albertacourts.ca/pc/home.

Alberta law libraries information: https://lawlibrary.ab.ca/

Posted by Jamal Gilani in Social
17
Mar
2020

Markaz-ul-Islam Suspends Congregational Friday Prayers Until Further Notice

Markaz-Ul-Islam Mosque Suspending Friday Congregational Prayers Following Covid-19 Directives and Advisories

 

Markaz-ul-Islam is committed to give all the preventive measures of the COVID-19 in Alberta its utmost attention and priority to save human lives. Based on the guidance provided by religious preferences of renowned international religious establishments in North America and beyond, Markaz-ul-Islam alongside other mosques in Edmonton is cancelling Friday prayer effective immediately.

The daily prayers will continue at a maximum capacity of 50 people. We urge our community to remain home for the prayer if they do not require other services at the Mosque. Markaz-ul-Islam will continue to closely monitor the health situation in Alberta and will post updates on our Facebook page, website and email as the situation evolves. For more information please contact at info@markaz.ca.

 

Board of Directors
Markaz-ul-Islam

Posted by Jamal Gilani in Social