Trump hopes Muslims find comfort, healing on Eid.

Byline: Anwar Iqbal

WASHINGTON -- US President Donald Trump said in his Eidul Fitr message on Saturday that he hopes Muslims find comfort, strength and healing from the Covid-19 disease that has dampened the celebrations of this year's festival.

Most Muslims across North America are celebrating Eid on Sunday.

'As Muslims observe the day of Eid al-Fitr, we hope they find both comfort and strength in the healing powers of prayer and devotion,' President Trump said in a statement put out by his office.

'Over the past weeks and months, as we have fought the coronavirus, we have relied on our faith, family, and friends to help guide us through these unprecedented times.'

At a White House news briefing on Thursday, Trump promised to issue new guidelines for reopening places of worship for enabling people to seek comfort from their faith in these difficult times.

'Now more than ever we are reminded of the reassuring peace, uplifting love, and heartening fellowship that religion brings into our lives,' he said in his Eid message. 'We send our best wishes for a blessed and joyous Eid al-Fitr.'

Curbs on social gatherings to contain the spread of the coronavirus have affected Eid celebrations as well. But Muslims across the United States have found innovative ways to celebrate the three-day holiday, while adhering to social-distancing measures.

Arrangements have been made...