BURAIDAH, 11 September 2007 — The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has issued a statement about organizing Iftar in mosques throughout the Kingdom.
The statement, which was sent to all branches of the ministry, gives directives to imams with regard to accepting or collecting money for Iftar parties.
“It is also forbidden for any individual to hold Iftar parties inside or around the mosque unless they get permission from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments through the imam of the mosque,” the statement said, adding that imams are only allowed to accept food donated by the wider community.
The statement further warned against extravagance in the quality and quantity of food given to worshippers. “Any institution or individual who wish to donate money for such parties should go directly to licensed charitable societies and institutions that are available across the Kingdom,” the statement said.
It advised citizens to abide by rules that stipulate that donations can only be given either through the bank accounts of charitable foundations or through official receipts taken from the headquarters of these foundations.
“Foundations running Iftar parties should show their revenues and expenditures in their final budget statement prepared by accredited accountants,” the statement said, adding that their role is limited to only providing meals. “Lectures are organized only by the ministry,” the statement said.
“It is completely forbidden to distribute money to those coming to eat at such parties,” it added.
The ministry also advised to hold such parties in places outside mosques to ensure worshippers are not disturbed by noise and smell during the prayers.
