IN RESPONSE to the recent distress caused by the Quran burning incident in Sweden, Muslims from Cardiff are preparing to participate in Britain’s largest annual Muslim gathering, advocating for respect and peace in light of the desecration of sacred texts.
The event, known as the Jalsa Salana or Annual Convention, will unite thousands of Ahmadi Muslims from across the globe in the tranquil English countryside. With its profound significance, the convention aims to broadcast a message of unity and peace to millions worldwide. The centerpiece of the gathering is a simple yet poignant ceremony set to take place on Sunday, 30th July. During this event, an awe-inspiring human chain will be formed, comprising forty thousand Ahmadi Muslims, spanning the vast 210-acre site in Alton, Hampshire.
By expressing their commitment to the peaceful principles of Islam, attendees will unequivocally denounce all forms of extremism. The convention serves as an earnest appeal to individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage actively in dialogue, education, and efforts against ignorance and hatred.
Representing the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the convention extends an invitation to others, urging them to foster an atmosphere of respect, understanding, and compassion. Eminent faith leaders from various religions will grace the event with their presence, demonstrating solidarity in the pursuit of peace.
His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, conveyed his thoughts on the matter:
“The truth is that most people in Sweden and other Western countries remain unaware of the true teachings of Islam, enabling extremists to misconstrue individual verses of the Holy Quran to suit their false propaganda. Those who perpetrate such hateful acts possess no understanding of Islam or its true stance on Jihad.”
“If genuine global peace is our desire, we must consider the consequences of our words and actions. We must respect the beliefs and values of others. This approach can dismantle barriers and dissolve enmity and resentment present in various parts of the world. Undoubtedly, establishing peace is the most crucial and urgent requirement of our time. This should be our foremost aspiration and objective.”
During the convention, His Holiness will administer the Bai’at, a pledge of allegiance, to the assembled faithful. The 10-point pledge includes commitments to refrain from causing harm to any of God’s creatures, to show empathy for all beings, and to dedicate one’s talents to their welfare.
Arshid Mahmood Shahid, Cardiff President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, expressed: “The Jalsa Salana of the community is significant for renewing our ties and strengthening our faith.
“Together, we encourage everyone to contribute to a society that upholds religious freedom, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. This call for action urges individuals and communities worldwide to reject acts of bigotry and work towards a more harmonious future.”
The three-day spiritual convention will feature addresses from religious, political, and civic leaders, standing as a beacon of peace and promoting harmonious community relations under the banner of “Love for All, Hatred for None.”
