Aussie Muslims Pray for Rain in Sydney

Australian Muslims gathered in Sydney Monday, December 22, to pray for rain to battle the bushfires raging across New South Wales, SBS reported.

“We wanted in Al-Rahman mosque to perform this prayer in light of the draught and harsh conditions we currently live in,” said Youssef Nabha, the Imam of Al-Rahman mosque, where the prayer was held.

“We are trying to stand by people in this crisis and hardships, and reflecting the humane side of our religion and message.”

Before the prayer was held, the mosque leaders urged worshippers to fast for three days hoping for relief.

This is not the first time for the mosque or Australian Muslims to weigh in during the bushfires crisis.

Muslims have been offering a helping hand to their communities struggling with drought and bushfire.

In November, mosque members donated ten thousand dollars to NSW Rural Fire Service.

“We gave this donation to show appreciation to their efforts in battling fires especially some of them lost their lives and others were injured during their tremendous efforts,” Nabha said.

Yesterday, Sunday, December 22, the Islamic Society of South Australia kicked off a new crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for the members of the local community affected by bushfires.

Also in this month, December (and so was also last month, November), a group of Muslim men drove for five hours to host a free barbecue for bushfire victims.

According to the 2016 Australian Census, the number of Muslims in Australia constituted 604,200 people, or 2.6% of the total Australian population, an increase of over 15% of its previous population share of 2.2% reported in the previous census 5 years.