Friday sermon: help the Syrian refugees

Harsh snowstorms across the Middle East are causing widespread suffering, especially for Syrian refugees, and people are urged in this week’s sermon to help in any way they can.

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Harsh snowstorms across the Middle East are causing widespread suffering, especially for Syrian refugees, and people are urged in this week’s sermon to help in any way they can.

Worshippers will be told of this weekend’s fund-raising push by the Emirates Red Crescent to help those displaced by the civil war in Syria.

“How many families have been separated, women widowed and children orphaned?” the sermon asks.

When people read about or watch footage of the refugees, they live the pain of those who lack comfort and aid.

“People, how would you feel if those you see on television are your family? Look at those people who do not have the day’s food, or warm clothes to protect them from the harsh weather,” the sermon says.

“So be of help to your brothers in distress and Allah will be of your help, have mercy on them for they are away from their homes and Allah will have mercy on you.”

Worshippers will be encouraged to contribute towards feeding the hungry and sheltering those who seek warmth.

If they do, Allah will surely repay them generously, the sermon says.

The Prophet Mohammed urged those with a surplus of goods to donate them to the impoverished.

“O you who have believed, spend from that which We have provided for you before there comes a day in which there is no exchange and no friendship and no intercession,” the Quran says.

Syrians are experiencing tragic circumstances and people must try to help them, the sermon urges.

One of the most pressing needs is winter clothing to protect them from the cold and the snow, with the Red Crescent’s campaign being the official way of donating.

aalkhoori@thenational.ae