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The Ministry of Islamic Affairs will honor 20 outstanding khateebs (those who give Friday sermons at mosques) from different parts of the Kingdom every six months, said the newly appointed minister of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance, Sulaiman Abalkhail, on Sunday.
“These khateebs will be honored at a special ceremony, which will be held regularly,” said Abalkhail, who was former president of Imam Mohammed bin Saud Islamic University in Riyadh.
He said he has already authorized the deputy minister for mosques, dawa and guidance, to set out the rules and regulations to identify the top khateebs, as well as to make arrangements to honor them.
“The new move comes as part of the ministry’s efforts to strengthen mosques to perform their mission in the best manner, especially in enlightening the public about their religion,” he said.
Abalkhail said mosques could play an important role in bolstering social security and stability. “This biannual recognition will definitely encourage khateebs to perform well, rising up to the expectations of the public and meeting their religious as well as everyday needs,” he said.
Abalkhail said his ministry would leave no stone unturned in the service of mosques as well as developing the performance of khateebs and Islamic propagators, and carrying out maintenance works of mosques.
He commended the efforts of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah in the service of mosques in the Kingdom and other countries. He also disclosed plans to improve the ministry’s activities and programs to achieve its objectives.
The minister stressed the need to review the religious approach toward various contemporary issues based on the moderate Islamic teachings, keeping away from extremism and chauvinism.
Abalkhail was appointed the new Islamic affairs minister on Dec. 8, replacing Saleh Al-Asheikh, as part of a major Cabinet reshuffle made by the king. In a previous statement after assuming his new position, Abalkhail said his ministry would set out a strategic plan to strengthen the role of mosques and improve the services of all employees associated with them.