By Charles Lefebvre

Local Muslim speaks about New Zealand attacks

Mar 15, 2019 | 4:30 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Islamic Association of Medicine Hat say they are shocked and saddened by the attacks on mosques in New Zealand.

Forty-nine people were killed during two mass shootings while attending Friday prayers in two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Police have charged one person with murder, and two others have been arrested.

Dr. Aijaz Ahmad, speaking with CHAT News on Friday, says he was shocked when he heard about the attacks, especially since it occurred during prayers.

“It’s just a feeling of sadness for anything happening anywhere in the world, irrespective of your faith,” he said. “If it happens in any other place of worship, we would have the same feeling.”

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He says discussions will take place in the coming days about the tragedy and its impact on the local congregation.

The Islamic Association of Medicine Hat has been in the city for 19 years. Ahmad estimates 80 families belong to the congregation, and says they feel welcome in the city.