BRITAIN PREPARES FOR THE BIGGEST ANNUAL MUSLIM GATHERING

Convention calls for justice and working for the greater good to attain lasting peace

MONDAY 1 AUGUST 2022

As Britain’s oldest established Muslim organisation prepares for its annual convention, organisers say faith is on the rise.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is holding its Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention) on 5-7 August in Hampshire – normally the largest annual gathering of Muslims in the UK attracts 35,000 over the three days.

But this year the faith gathering has been restricted to primarily UK delegates only, owing to the ongoing pandemic.  It will be led by the world head of the Ahmadiyya Muslims His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, who is the Caliph (Spiritual Leader) of the community, and the proceedings will be televised globally via satellite.

The convention will touch on a range of topics from the principles of justice in international affairs to advice and guidance on and harmony in the home.

His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

 “For peace in our time, we must act with justice. We must act with respect and fairness. We must love for others what we love for ourselves. We must uphold the rights of others with the same zeal and determination that one has for their loved ones. We should always look beyond narrow self-interests and work for the greater good.

 His Holiness added that:

 “It is my heartfelt belief that true and lasting peace in the world is not possible until mankind comes to recognise his Creator, fulfils His rights and acts upon His commandments, that are the means to peace.”

 

Rafiq Hayat, UK President of the community, said a remarkable feature of the pandemic was that it afforded more time for introspection and self-reflection.

“During the pandemic and through lockdowns, even though mosques were closed or had restricted attendance, we discovered a heightened interest in matters of faith– and the quality and depth of our faith increased through a renewed focus on prayer.

“People also remain engaged with the community in online meetings and activities, and spent time listening to discussions and debates that were broadcast on online platforms.  People had more time to delve into faith matters, study the Holy Quran and to reflect on the purpose and direction of their lives.

“The pandemic provided a salutary lesson about the true meaning of life and living it in a way that engages meaningfully with others and with God Almighty.”

An estimated 30,000 men and women, young and old from across the UK, will flock to the 3-day convention.

Ends

Notes to Editors

Content from proceedings including images and B-Roll will be available to the media via the press team.

 Learn more about the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK here: www.LoveForAllHatredForNone.org

For all press enquiries please contact:

Basharat Nazir Mahmood Rafiq
E: basharat.nazir@ahmadiyyauk.org E: mahmood.rafiq@ahmadiyyauk.org
Phone: +44(0) 7703 483 384 Phone: +44(0)7971 060962

 

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