As a precautionary measure, The Mecca Center has announced the suspension of all regular programs and upcoming events effective immediately until further notice in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This includes Jummah prayer this Friday, March 13, 2020, however, khutbah and prayer service will be held for those who have not received this communication. Please note that The Mecca Center will remain open only for daily prayers.
This directly impacts our Sunday School, Muhsen, Quran Blossoms, Quran Institute, and Mecca MVMT programming and is intended to safeguard against COVID-19, and the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus. All other Mecca Center events and programs have been postponed until further notice. Please note: The Quran Blossoms (Baraem) program will suspend activities beginning Friday, March 13, 2020 (no school on Friday). We are currently working on scheduling strategies to best accommodate the needs of our community members.
As the situation evolves, the Mecca Center will evaluate programs and events beyond this suspension to determine when and how they will proceed, and will notify our community as updates become available. The Mecca Center is also evaluating the implementation of social distancing measures at future events and programs, and will be encouraging members to participate in online programming if possible.
This decision to suspend The Mecca Center’s programs and upcoming events follows consultation with senior leadership and experts within the medical community. The Mecca Center continues to work closely and comply with local, state and federal health partners to monitor the coronavirus and take necessary actions to mitigate its spread. Community members are recommended to use the following mitigation measures to stay healthy and limit the potential spread of COVID-19:
- Wash hands frequently
- Avoid close contact with others, especially those who are sick
- Stay home when sick
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces and objects
For more information about COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, cdc.gov/Coronavirus/2019-nCOV. Questions about COVID-19 should be directed to the Illinois Department of Public Health by calling 1-800-889-3931 or emailing dph.sick@illinois.gov. For any questions regarding Mecca Center programming and events, please contact info@meccacenter.org.
