Surinamese Javanese Muslims began to celebrate the end of holy month of Ramadan 2011 while praying all together traditionally at Onafhankelijk Plein (Independent Square) at 31st of August 2011.

This year’s Eid Ul-Fitr ( AKA Eid al-Fitr, Id-ul-Fitr or Id al-Fitr ) was full with surprises.

First, radical change of the direction of Qibla. The National Committee of Eid Ul-Fitr changed the direction of Qibla after their latest study while using GPS, Google Maps and other technological tools. Then they marked prayers directions and fixed place of Mihrab. There was huge angle difference of Qibla direction if you compare new direction with earlier years. Series of few first photos shows their preparation one day before.

His excellencies Mr. John R. Nay, Ambassador of the United States of America to Suriname honored an important worship of Javanese Muslim community. He participated to their worship. “ I’m Christian, but we serve the same God. In all religions is the message of peace emphasized… “ Mr. John R. Nay said to Suriname ATV Television ( Algemene Televisie Verzorging ).

Another great surprise was Bishop of Paramaribo, Monseigneur Wilhelmus Adrianus Josephus Maria de Bekker’s visit to Onafhankelijk Plein (Independent Square). His meaningful visit was great honor for both religion’s prayers. He walked between Muslim prayers friendly, talked with them, saluted them and it created peaceful emotion on everyones faces.

I wish Suriname can be an excellent sample to all over world to show how many different religions and cultures lives together without any conflict in their daily life. I’m sure the first rule is so simple : RESPECT EACH OTHER !

Hope you like it. All the best,