After Moulavi Shukoor, chief priest of the Jummah Mosque received the Commander and his representatives at the entrance invited them to inaugurate the prayer sessions after lighting the oil lamp in the inner shrine and garlanding the holy place in conformity with Islamic religious traditions.

The customary Islamic religious prayers, one of the forerunners to the forthcoming Army 66th anniversary invoked blessings on the organization, lauding the services, being rendered for the best interests of the country. Prayers were led by Rev. Ash-Sheikh Fazil Farook, together with a few other Moulavis.

The event, organized by the Army Muslim Association, chaired by Colonel M.H.F Yusuf and all members was attended by a large number of Muslims serving the Army, together with members of the general public.

Lieutenant General Silva towards the end of the religious ceremony presented two mementoes to the Mosque and the Moulavi as a gesture of good will. At the sametime, Commander gave away few financial incentives to a bevy of children, engaged in prayer sessions by reciting holy verses.

Tuesday’s religious ceremony was the 4th in sequence that has been organized to coincide with the Army Day and the 66th Anniversary. Earlier, flag blessing ceremonies took place at Kandy and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya at Anuradhapura and also at the Sri Ponnambalam Vaneshwarar Kovil, Colombo 13.

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