Liverpool Muslims are preparing to "renew their efforts to serve humanity" at Britain's oldest Muslim organisation later this week.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim community is holding its annual convention between August 5-7 in Hampshire. The gathering normally attracts 35,000 people over the three days but this year has been restricted to primarily UK delegates because of the pandemic.
The 'Jalsa Salana' will be led by the world head of the Ahmadiyya Muslims, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, 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 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.
“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.”
Ahmadi Muslims from Liverpool are looking forward to attending the convention again. Azhar Chaudhry from Liverpool said: “These last two years were unprecedented times for our nation. [We] are pleased to again be attending the convention to pledge loyalty to one’s nations and renew our efforts to serve humanity.”
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. He said: “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.”
An estimated 30,000 men and women, young and old from across the UK, will flock to the 3-day convention.
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