Warning - This story discusses details of the 15 March Christchurch mosque shootings.
Friday prayers at the Christchurch mosques have been marked by fresh flowers following the sentencing of the gunman yesterday.
The first Friday prayers after the mosque shooter's sentencing. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Outside of the Al Noor mosque on Deans Avenue, more flower bouquets had been laid to pay tribute to victims and their families, the final chapter to New Zealand's darkest hour and to highlight the landmark sentencing.
After almost a week long hearing, the terrorist finally learned his fate - that he would spend the rest of his life behind bars without parole - the first sentence of its kind in New Zealand.
Worshippers greet one another at Al Noor mosque in the first Friday prayers since the Christchurch mosque shooter's sentencing. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Imam of the Al Noor mosque, Gamal Fouda said he was pleased with the judge's sentencing and handling of the court.
"We can all live in harmony and celebrate our differences... there is a lot of relief."
But he said, "no punishment will bring our beloved ones back.. at least we now achieved justice."
Flowers left at the first Friday prayers after sentencing. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Friday prayer or Congregational prayer is one of the most exalted Islamic rituals. Muslims ordinarily pray five times each day according to the sun's sky path regardless of time zones.
He said it was a significant time for the country to reflect and commit to living in peace and tolerance with one another.
Mr Fouda said "Muslims and non-muslims in this country" could now continue their "journey of healing together."
Worshippers greet police at Al Noor mosque in the first Friday prayers since the Christchurch mosque shooter's sentencing. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Where to get help:
Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
Daily wellbeing actions from the Mental Health Foundation
Covid-19 mental health and wellbeing resources
More coverage from RNZ:
- Widows of Shuhada: A podcast about widows of the victims
- RNZ's Living Wall of tributes
- Saziah Bashir: Too late, too little, to merely decry racism
- 'A loner with a lot of money' - A look into the Christchurch mosque gunman's past
- 'Why, simply why': A chance for victims to look mass killer in the eyes
Flowers left at the first Friday prayers after the mosque shooter's sentencing. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
