Canadian Council of Imams issue advisory to Imams about sermons

The Canadian Council of Imams has issued an advisory to Imams concerning the Friday sermon and the religious services.

“The Canadian Council of Imams (CCI) hereby reminds all congregation leaders and imams, at all facilities of worship, whether permanent or temporary, to uphold the integrity of our faith and responsibility in sermons and supplications,” said the CCI’s statement. “Our sermons (khutbahs) and supplications (duas) are an integral part of the Muslim’s spiritual experience.”

“The message, content and delivery of all sermons and supplications must entail the true nature of Islam, which is a message of peace and respect, as per Islamic guidelines.”

“Sermons and supplications should not be a platform for discriminatory remarks or hate speech, nor for the sharing of political/partisanship views,” added the Imams’ council. “Sermons and supplications should promote respect, tolerance and harmony.”

“All Imams and speakers including guests and teachers, should adhere to this protocol. We advise management boards of Islamic centers to have a written code of conduct for all presenters, speakers and imams to read and sign prior to delivery on stage or podium.”