The President of the Sarnia Muslim Association says they've been overwhelmed by kindness following Sunday's attack on a family in London.
Mohammad Ali said members have been feeling insecure, but their insecurity is being soothed by the community's caring response.
"We got lots of messages and flowers," said Ali. "Overall my message would be, for the Muslim community especially, be patient, be vigilant, look around, and channel your thoughts in a positive direction. For all Sarnians, I would say thanks for the support, and keep it up. These are difficult times and we have to face them together."
Four Muslim family members -- representing three generations -- were killed and a nine-year-old boy remains in hospital following a vehicle attack that police have described as an intentional act of hate.
"The element of fear is justifiable, because this can happen to anyone, but at the same time, when we get the response from the community -- I mean the non-Muslim community -- our brother and sister Canadians and Sarnians, it's giving us a very soothing message that the Muslim community is not all by themselves or alone in this situation," said Ali.
The local association, which has a mosque on London Line and another on Cobden Street, represents over 175 families.
Ali said they're offering guidance and support to all of them, and will continue to share the message of Islam, which is peace for everyone.
"This incident, which happened, can trigger quite a bit of anxiety and depression. That's why I think at this point, it's even more required to engage with the families and offer them help so that they do not feel alone in this situation."
He said right now, only ten people are allowed in the mosque at a time, but when COVID-19 restrictions are loosened Friday, 15 per cent capacity will be allowed.
Ali said all protocols outlined by Lambton Public Health will be followed.
He said he's unaware of any local connections to the family targeted, but said members of the Sarnia Muslim Association joined thousands of people at a vigil in London Tuesday night to show their support.
