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Holiest site in the world reopened

On 31 May 2020, one of the holiest sites in Israel reopened after weeks of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The site, known as the Temple Mount to Jews and as the Noble Sanctuary to Muslims, is the holiest site in the world to Jews and the third holiest to Muslims. The resumption of prayers marked the holy fasting month of Ramadan and Eid ul-Fitr holiday.

Muslims believe the site is where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven and Jews revere it as the site of the Jewish temples of antiquity.

“After they opened the mosque, I feel like I can breathe again. Thanks be to God,” said Jerusalem resident Umm Hisham through a face mask, with her eyes tearing up, after entering the compound for dawn prayers with hundreds of other Muslims.

‘…Thanks be to God…’

Muslims chanted “God is the greatest” as they packed into the compound on Sunday for dawn prayers, some got on their knees and kissed the ground as they entered.  Around 700 worshippers were present for dawn prayers.

‘…God is the greatest…’

Worshippers must wear face masks and bring personal prayer rugs should they wish to pray inside the shrines or on the compound’s outdoor grounds.

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Popular destinations are reopening

Our desperate need to travel has to wait a while; in the meantime we take a little peek at some popular countries that are planning to re-open their borders.

Disney World: Walt Disney World as well as Disney’s Disneyland is in the process of implementing several measures to reopen safely. Employees and guests will be required to wear face coverings and undergo temperature screenings before entering the parks. Disney will reduce capacity at the parks and the resort will temporarily suspend parades, fireworks and other events that create crowds. The resort will also enable cashless transactions by expanding contactless payments. Disney will also increase the number of available hand-sanitizing stations.

Canada: Not until at least June 23, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said “We’re going to be very, very careful about reopening any international travel, including in the United States, before we feel that it is time, Canada is looking at stronger measures to make sure that we’re following up appropriately with people who come over.”

Bahamas: Possibly by July, Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Minnis said “We are looking at a possible date for commercial travel on or before July 1 of this year, these dates may change depending on the circumstance. I want to repeat, however, that this date is not final.”

Puerto Rico: Tourists are already welcome; all incoming commercial flights are diverted to San Juan, where incoming guests must undergo a health screening upon arrival, including a brief interview and temperature check. Once admitted, all passengers are required to self-quarantine for 14 days.

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