Some mosques in Belgium reopen for worship

BRUSSELS

Some of the mosques in Belgium previously closed to stem the spread of COVID-19 reopened on Monday.

As the country entered its third stage of normalization, many mosques opened their doors for morning prayers.

The reopened mosques had measures to prevent a second wave of the virus, including people bringing their own prayer rugs, social distancing, and attention to hand hygiene.

At first, religious services and ceremonies will not exceed 100 people, with the number to rise to 200 on July 1.

Saadettin Pelit, a community member of the Fatih Mosque in Brussels, which is affiliated to the Turkish Religious Affairs Directorate, said he was happy to come to the mosque after weeks away.

"I can’t express my feelings. How long I have been waiting for this moment!" he said.

Cafes and restaurants

Cafes, bars, and restaurants opened today in the country with 1.5-meter (5 feet) social distancing measures.

While amateur and professional sports activities and competitions have restarted, spectators will be allowed after July 1, provided that certain rules are followed.

Gyms also reopened today but pools and spas will remain closed until July 1.

While road trips are possible within Belgium, cross-border travel within the EU will begin after June 15.

*Writing and contribution by Busra Nur Bilgin Cakmak