May 27, 2012
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Religious Affairs Directorate releases list of hajj pilgrims
27 May 2010 / TODAY’S ZAMAN, İSTANBUL
The list of pilgrims chosen to perform hajj was released on Wednesday by the Directorate of Religious Affairs.
A computerized system determined which Muslims would travel to Mecca and Medina in November. Thousands of people waited anxiously to hear their names after the drawing. Religious Affairs Directorate President Ali Bardakoğlu said more than 800,000 people entered their names, but there were only 74,000 spots.
Bardakoğlu said his directorate fails to send every aspiring Muslim to the holy land because of Saudi Arabia’s annual pilgrimage quota.
“The Directorate of Religious Affairs decided two years ago to determine which lucky Muslims would perform the pilgrimage through a drawing in order for a fairer selection. I advise my brothers and sisters whose names are not included on the list of pilgrims to be hopeful for future drawings. I ask them not to be upset. Please keep your hopes up for next year,” he remarked.
Bardakoğlu also said the Religious Affairs Directorate saved 600 spots for families of slain and wounded soldiers.
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