What: On January 20, 2005, the local Muslim community will celebrate the end of the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca, or Hajj, with communal prayers at various mosques in the Cleveland area. The prayers and the holiday which follows, are called Eid ul-Adha (eed-al-odd-ha), or “festival of sacrifice.” Eid ul-Adha is the second of the two major Muslim holidays. It commemorates the Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael at God’s command. The holiday is celebrated with communal prayers, small gifts for children, distribution of meat to the needy and social gatherings.

There are more than 60,000 Muslims in the Cleveland metropolitan area, an estimated six million in America and some 1.2 billion worldwide. Demographers say Islam is the fastest growing religion in this country and around the world. Each year, more than two million Muslims go on Hajj.

When: Thursday & Friday morning, January 20 & 21, 2005.

Where: Various Mosques and Islamic Centers

Contact: Contact the local mosques directly.

Julia A. Shearson, Director, CAIR-OHIO, Cleveland office 216.830.2247; 216.440.2247. E-Mail: jshearson@cair.com

Photo Opportunity:  Each year, Muslims come to the prayers in colorful traditional dress. The prayers themselves are quite visual, with worshippers arranged in neat rows and bowing in prayers in unison. Participants exchange embraces at the conclusion of the prayers.

Other Events:  Numerous celebrations and events will be held over the next three days. Please contact the mosques directly for further information.

Note: Because these are religious services, reporters and photographers of both sexes should dress modestly. Photographers should arrive early to get into position for the best shots. Photographers are also advised not to step directly in front of worshippers and to ask permission for close-up shots.

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