Title: Regarding the Friday Prayers in non-Muslim Countries Question: The Friday prayer is being performed by the Muslims in the Europeans countries and in the U.S. As far as I know this can only be presided over by the head of the Muslim state or by his representatives. What should I do? Should I say my Zuhar prayer after the Jum`ah Prayer? Wassalam , Answer: The Friday congregation - the Khutbah (address) as well as the prayer - is the responsibility of the Islamic state. According to the Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh), this congregation is to be organized and administered by the Muslim state. This, however, does not mean that in the absence of the Muslim state or in the absence of the fulfillment of this responsibility at the state level, the Muslims cannot organize the congregation on their own. It only means that, under such circumstances, they (i.e. the common Muslims) are not obliged to do so. In the European countries or in the United States, if the Muslims have organized the Friday congregation on their own, you may participate in such congregations and offer your Friday prayers with them. You do not have to offer your Zuhr prayers after offering your Friday prayers with such a congregation. I hope this helps. September 22, 2000