Jamatkhana Re-Opening | The Ismaili Canada

Register to get started, or login to update your attendance preferences. Watch the video below for an overview.

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As Jamatkhana capacity is limited due to COVID-19 regulations, and to enable contact tracing in the event of a potential infection event, all individuals will need to register online to gain access to Jamatkhana.  Pre-registration allows Jamati members to indicate their preferred dates and times of Jamatkhana attendance (including Jamatkhanas not yet open), and be allocated a confirmed spot ahead of time.

Please note:

  • All Jamati members are invited to register and specify their preference.
  • Jamati members whose Jamatkhanas are not yet open will be scheduled once those Jamatkhanas are announced to be open.
  • View the videos below that walk you through the registration process and more.
  • See below for full details, procedures and answers to frequently asked questions.

Thank you for your support.

Details and Procedures
Jamatkhana Opening Locations & Dates

Updated:

We are pleased to share that the Jamatkhanas identified below have been confirmed for re-opening as part of the Canada Jamatkhana re-opening process. Additional Jamatkhanas scheduled to re-open will be listed here, with opening dates, as these are confirmed in the weeks ahead.

British Columbia

 

 

Edmonton

 

 

Prairies

 

 

Ontario

 

Ottawa

 

 

Quebec and Maritimes

 

Jamatkhana Capacity

Due to provincial regulations regarding physical distancing and attendance limits, Jamatkhana capacity will be limited. A registration system will be used for contact tracing if necessary and for equitable allocation of Jamatkhana attendance spots.

Jamatkhana capacity will vary by facility, depending on the size and other characteristics of the Jamatkhana, as well as local and provincial health regulations. Jamati members who wish to attend will be required to register in advance. Those who have registered and received a confirmation will be eligible to attend.

Members of the Jamat are encouraged to attend Jamati ceremonies on the same day as other members of their household in order to minimize the health risks of mixing different individuals/families.

Registration
Who can register?

 

  • Members of the Shia Imami Ismaili faith residing in Canada may register to attend.

 

How will the registration process work?

 

  • Murids can register online.
  • During initial online registration, basic profile information will be collected including name, contact information, gender, birthdate, primary/secondary Jamatkhanas, and family members.
  • A QR code will be emailed to each registered Jamati member. This will need to be presented on arrival to allow entrance.
  • Jamati members may select preferred recurring days (e.g. every Monday) by logging in to the same online system. Jamati members can register up to one week in advance, prior to their desired attendance date.
  • -Jamati members may only select specific dates for Jamatkhanas that have been opened or are scheduled to open.
  • Once Jamatkhanas are opened, Jamati members will be allocated a Jamatkhana attendance date, and will receive an email notification where they must confirm their spot.
  • If a murid does not confirm their allocated space within 72 hours of receipt of the notification email, the spot will be made available to another Jamati member. Jamati members may cancel their registration if they are no longer able to attend on their allocated day. (Note: if Jamatkhana opening is announced less than one week prior to opening, members may be asked to confirm their allocated space within 24 hours.)

 

How will Jamati members be allocated attendance dates?

 

  • The system will allocate spots in an equitable manner, cycling fairly through Jamati members so every murid has equitable opportunities to attend. If capacity is reached on a desired date, the requesting murid will be given priority for the allocation of next available dates.
  • After allocations are confirmed, if a Jamatkhana has open capacity for a specific date, other murids can register to attend that Jamatkhana. 
  • The scheduling system will only run for Jamatkhanas that have been opened or are scheduled to open.

 

How can I select the days & dates I’d like to attend Jamatkhana?

 

  • During the registration process, Jamati members will be asked for their Primary and Secondary Jamatkhanas.
  • The Primary Jamatkhana is the Jamatkhana that the murid attends most often. The Secondary Jamatkhana is often in close proximity to the Primary Jamatkhana and is attended occasionally by the murid.
  • Murids can request to attend their Primary & Secondary Jamatkhanas on a repeating basis (e.g. every Monday), and can request to attend other open Jamatkhanas on specific dates.

 

Which Jamatkhanas can I request my preferences for?

 

  • You can request repeating days (e.g. every Monday) for your Primary & Secondary Jamatkhanas. These Jamatkhanas do not have to be opened yet for you to select your preferred days. Once these Jamatkhanas are opened, the system will use your stated preferences for allocation and will notify you via email.
  • You can request specific dates (e.g. Friday, September 4th) for Jamatkhanas that are open or are scheduled to be open by that date.

 

Can I update my preferences once I have set them in the system?

 

  • Yes, you can log in to the system and update your preferred days of attendance at any time. The system will use your updated preference for future allocations.

 

I am not able to register online. How can I request assistance with the registration process?

 

  • Jamati members who require support with the registration process can call the ACCESS line at 1-888-536-3599 to register on the phone.

 

How and why is my attendance information stored?

 

  • Attendance lists and contact information for those attending Jamatkhana will be stored securely for a period of 2-3 weeks to allow for contact tracing in the event of an outbreak, as recommended by public health authorities.

 

How will we ensure the security of the data?

 

  • The registration application uses the most secure protocols to encrypt all information that is submitted by Jamati members as it is transferred to servers. The registration website and database are hosted on servers that provide world-class security and data protection. Proper authentication and authorization is also required by members of the Jamati institutions prior to accessing any data.

 

How long will it take to register?

 

  • If you participated in the recent Jamati Registration campaign, most fields will self-populate. If you did not register at that time, you can enter all pertinent data for Jamatkhana registration. This should take less than 5 minutes.

 

Can I register for my family members?

 

  • Yes, you can register yourself, individuals in your household, and family members for whom you’re a caregiver and with whom you wish to attend Jamatkhana.

 

I am not able to see the QR code in the registration e-mail.

 

  • Turn on image display in your smartphone's e-mail app to view the QR code image. On Apple device, you can do so by going to Settings, Mail and turning on "Load Remote Images".

 

Jamatkhana Flow
Parking

 

  • Upon arrival, please follow directions from the parking volunteers – using specific entry and exit points to access parking.
  • Please remain in your vehicle until those around you have cleared and you are able to maintain a 2-metre distance from others after exiting.
  • Please put on your mask before getting out of your vehicle, and leave it on until you return to your vehicle.
  • Please park and walk to the entrance of Jamatkhana (rather than use the drop-off) if all your passengers are able to walk without difficulty or assistance.
  • Drop-off will be available, wherever possible, for elderly members of the Jamat or those with limited mobility.

 

Jamatkhana Buses

 

  • Jamatkhana bus service will not be available for the first phase of Jamatkhana openings.
  • The decision to commence bus service will be made for each phase of opening, subject to local conditions, circumstances and keeping in mind the health and safety of the Jamat.

 

Screening

 

  • In order to help protect the health and safety of the Jamat, all Jamati members will be screened at the entrance by a volunteer.
  • The screening will consist of a series of questions, including the presence of COVID-related symptoms, COVID positive test result, exposure to infected individuals without the appropriate use of PPE, and recent international travel.
  • Jamati members will also undergo a temperature check through a digital thermometer.
  • On-site screening will be conducted outside with physical distancing between the volunteer and the murid.
  • Individuals from the same household will be screened at the same time.
  • If the screening identifies any potential issues:
    • The murid will be advised to return home and self-isolate as per public health authority guidelines.
    • The murid will be advised to contact their local health authority’s assessment centre and/or telehealth line to find out if they should be tested for COVID-19.

 

Check-in

 

  • Please arrive at least 30 minutes (but not more than 60 minutes) prior to commencement of ceremonies at the Jamatkhana for which you are registered in order to provide adequate time for screening, check-in, and to hear the announcement regarding changes to Jamatkhana practices prior to the start of Jamati ceremonies.
  • After screening, murids will be asked to check-in, showing on their smartphone the QR code they received via email.
  • Murids that have registered but do not have a smartphone with them will be checked in using their name and phone number.
  • Murids will need to be wearing an appropriate mask in order to complete the check-in process.
  • As the on-site screening and registration exercise will require the processing of a large number of check-ins in a very short time, we appreciate the Jamat’s understanding and patience during this process.
  • Murids waiting for screening or check-in are asked to maintain 2-metre physical distancing from others not in their household.

 

Entering/Exiting the Facility and Prayer Hall

 

  • In order to reduce walking traffic and congestion, wherever possible, the Jamat will be asked to enter through one door and exit through another, with one-way flow inside the facility.
  • For Jamatkhanas that only have one entrance and where separate entrance and exits are not possible, murids may be asked to wait until the entrance/exit way is clear before proceeding.
  • Wherever possible, the flow through the cloakrooms will be one way. Murids may be asked to wait until the area is clear before proceeding.
  • Once a murid takes their spot inside the prayer hall, they should remain there and refrain from moving to another spot.
  • In order to maximize efficiency and safety, the Jamat will be asked to take the next available empty seat in the prayer hall, to reduce unnecessary movement.

 

Departure

 

  • Upon departure from Jamatkhana, families are asked to meet at their vehicle or another identified family re-unification spot outside the facility. All adults should have access to their vehicle (i.e. carry a car key) in case of bad weather.
  • Upon departure from Jamatkhana, murids who are elderly or have limited mobility and are waiting for pick-up are asked to maintain 2-metre physical distancing.
  • Please avoid socializing in the parking lot after Jamatkhana ceremonies.

 

Safety Precautions Inside Jamatkhana

Updated: February 23, 2021 at 18:14 ET

In order to help ensure the health and safety of Jamati members, and to be compliant with health regulations, Jamati members are asked to observe the following guidance. View this video for a summary of the safety precautions to be taken.

Health Regulations

 

  • Jamati ceremonies will be kept as short as possible to limit possible exposure.
  • Please keep a distance of 2 metres between yourself and all other murids at all times (with the exception of people living in your household).
  • Please also maintain a physical distance of 2 metres while seated or in a line, by adhering to markings on the floor.
  • Where possible, one-way traffic flow will be used to promote physical distancing. Volunteers will direct you as appropriate.
  • Due to the small spaces, access to washrooms and cloakrooms will be controlled. We appreciate your patience if you are asked to wait until these spaces are cleared and sanitized before entering.
  • Please wear your own shoes to access the washrooms.
  • Please ensure a limit of 2 murids per elevator, assuming a 2-metre distance can be ensured, except for those within the same household.
  • Wherever possible, stairwells will have a one-way flow, with 2-metre physical distancing to be maintained. If the stairwell is 2 metres wide or more, the flow can be in both directions. Please follow any directional signage.
  • Entry and exit from the facility or prayer hall may be staggered or controlled to ensure physical distancing. Please follow the direction of the nice volunteers on duty.
  • Vara reciters must have their masks on at all times, including during the recitation. Microphone covers will be placed on microphones for additional prevention control.
  • Self-serve water fountains will be closed to minimize cross-contamination. If needed, murids may bring their own water bottles.

 

Masks

 

  • All adult Jamati members must wear a three layer, non-medical mask and keep it on at all times.
  • Murids and volunteers are asked to bring their own cloth masks.
  • Children age 5 and under are not required to wear masks; children age 6 - 12 are encouraged to wear masks subject to parental assessment.
  • Exceptions to the mask requirement include ONLY those murids with health-related reasons who cannot tolerate wearing a mask for long periods. These murids and/or their companions must ensure strict physical distancing at all times.
  • Non-medical face masks or face coverings should:
    • Allow for easy breathing (and speaking for reciters);
    • Fit securely to the head with ties or ear loops;
    • Maintain their shape after washing and drying;
    • Be changed as soon as possible if damp or dirty;
    • Be comfortable and not require frequent adjustment;
    • Be made of at least 3 layers of tightly woven material fabric (such as cotton or linen); and
    • Be large enough to completely and comfortably cover the nose and mouth without gaping.

 

Gloves

 

  • Murids should not wear gloves. Hand-sanitizing stations will be available throughout the Jamatkhana space.

 

Hand Hygiene

 

  • Hand sanitizer will be available at all entrances/exits, and inside all major areas.
  • Hand hygiene should be performed frequently and as needed, especially after:
    • Exiting the cloakroom,
    • Use of the washroom,
    • Vara recitation, and
    • Entering and exiting the prayer hall
  • Parents are asked to supervise their children when hand sanitizing.
  • After using hand sanitizer, hands should be allowed to air dry.
  • Where washrooms do not have touchless taps, napkins will be available near the taps to use for opening/closing the taps without touching them.
  • Please wash hands with soap and water in the washroom, and use hand santizer upon exit from the washroom

 

Special Populations

Updated: February 23, 2021 at 18:14 ET

Vulnerable Individuals

 

  • Vulnerable individuals are defined as those who are over 70 years of age or those with underlying medical conditions (e.g. heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer) or a compromised immune system from a medical condition or treatment (e.g. chemotherapy).
  • Given their significantly heightened risk of illness from COVID-19, vulnerable individuals are asked to assess their own situation and level of risk and attend Jamatkhana only if they are comfortable doing so. As always, there is no compulsion to attend Jamatkhana and all Jamati members should feel absolutely free to make their own decisions about attendance, depending on their particular circumstances. Mukhi-Kamadia and Mukhiani-Kamadiani are available to Jamati members seeking support or guidance.
  • If you or a family member are considered vulnerable and have questions, please contact the ACCESS Line at 1-888-536-3599 with any questions or submit your request online.
  • Members of the Jamat who will require ongoing support during Jamatkhana ceremonies are asked to have a family member available with them in order to provide support.

 

Children

 

  • Young children should stay with a parent or guardian at all times.
  • Recommendation: Young children should NOT attend Jamatkhana at this time if they will likely not be able to maintain the physical distancing requirement, avoid frequently touching surfaces, or stay with a parent or guardian at all times.
  • Children age 5 and under are NOT required to wear masks; children age 6-12 are encouraged to wear masks unless, in the assessment of a parent, wearing the mask causes the child to touch their face more frequently than not wearing it.
  • In some Jamatkhanas, separate areas with greater physical distancing may be made available to families with children. Please check with the volunteers on duty.

 

Special Needs Individuals

 

  • Special needs individuals are defined as those with pre-existing physical, mental, or behavioural conditions that require additional attention and/or special services.
  • Recommendation: special needs individuals should not attend Jamatkhana at this time if they will likely not be able to maintain the physical distancing requirement, avoid frequently touching surfaces or remain seated during Jamatkhana ceremonies.
  • Murids from Long-Term Care Facilities
  • At this time, as murids in long-term facilities are not allowed to attend large indoor gatherings, they will also not be able to attend Jamatkhana ceremonies.

 

Volunteers
Who can volunteer during this phase of Jamatkhana re-opening?

 

  • Given the nature of the duties involved, the importance of adhering to protocols, and the requirement for a full understanding of the significance of the duties, volunteers should be 13 years of age or older.
  • Those who are 70 years of age and older or have underlying medical conditions (e.g. heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer) or have a compromised immune system from a medical condition or treatment (e.g. chemotherapy) are considered vulnerable and are asked to refrain from volunteer duty due to the significant risk of complications if they acquire COVID-19.

 

Do volunteers need to undergo screening?

 

  • Yes, volunteers must take the pre-screening questionnaire as required by all during the Jamatkhana registration process, regardless of whether they are volunteering indoors or outdoors.
  • Questions will include whether the volunteer is experiencing COVID-related symptoms, has had a recent COVID positive test result, has had recent exposure to someone with COVID-19 without PPE, or has recently travelled outside of the country.

 

How do I get assigned a duty?

 

  • All duties will be pre-assigned via VMS and will require volunteers to ‘Accept’ or ‘Decline’ their duty. Go to OneIV Portal to get started.
  • This is critical to ensure adequate volunteer coverage is met along with ensuring appropriate training for specialized volunteer roles.

 

What safety precautions should I take as a volunteer?

 

  • Volunteers are asked to wear a mask at all times and follow official guidelines for removing the mask after use.
  • Please avoid shaking hands or any other physical contact.
  • Volunteers should maintain a distance of 2 metres between themselves and others.
  • If volunteers come across a murid who is ill or not feeling well, they should inform their Captain or Team Lead immediately.
  • If at any point while volunteering, you feel uncomfortable or unwell, immediately inform your Captain or Team Lead or a health support volunteer and make arrangements to leave.
  • Volunteers should minimize the amount of time spent on Jamatkhana premises. Volunteers should only arrive just-in-time for their duties and leave immediately after and not remain on premises.
  • It is highly recommended to not take public transportation on your way to volunteer duty.
  • Volunteers should ensure that they are frequently washing their hands or using hand sanitizer; avoiding touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands; and coughing or sneezing into the bend of the arm. Volunteers should wash their hands right after touching frequently-touched surfaces.

 

Should I bring my own mask and gloves?

 

  • Volunteers are requested to bring their own personal protective mask. Should they not have one, they will be provided a disposable mask to use during their duty.
  • Wearing gloves is not encouraged generally as they can be a source of infection transmission. However, if required for specific tasks, they will be provided.

 

Do I need additional training?

 

  • Yes, all volunteers will be required to complete their training sessions prior to arriving on site and starting their duty.

 

If I'm volunteering outside, can I go inside after my duty?

 

  • Outdoor volunteers should not enter the premises unless they are being escorted by or upon the request of a Captain, Vice-Captain or Team Lead as long as the maximum capacity is not violated, and the appropriate pre-screening has taken place.

 

What do I do when I'm finished my duty?

 

  • Post-volunteering, volunteers should check out with the Captains or Team Leads and follow procedures in place to appropriately leave the building/premise.
  • If you are unwell after volunteering, please inform the Captain and contact the local Public Health Authority and follow their advice.

 

Jamatkhana Practices

Some Jamatkhana practices will be amended to ensure the safety of the Jamat while preserving the esoteric essence of the ritual. Full details on these changes will be communicated immediately prior to the start of or during Jamati ceremonies.

Communication and Updates
Communication

 

  • Information about Jamatkhana re-opening will be updated on this page on a regular basis, as the plan evolves and adapts to current circumstances. Please only use official Jamati institution communication channels as sources of information on Jamatkhana re-opening. These include this website, the Al-Akhbar newsletter, the iiCanada app, The Ismaili Canada regional Facebook and Instagram pages and announcements made in Jamatkhana. Please avoid circulating information on WhatsApp about Jamatkhana re-openings, as all verified information will appear only on official channels.

 

Updates

 

  • Guidelines and requirements around Jamatkhana re-opening may change over time, as we build upon lessons learned and adapt to changing health regulations and COVID-19 incident rates. Any such changes will be posted here and on the appropriate The Ismaili Canada communication channels.

 

The Ismaili

Contact Us

His Highness Prince Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Canada

49 Wynford Drive Toronto, Ontario M3C 1K1 CANADA

Tel: +1-416-646-6965

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