For the second time, I had the honor of attending the largest global gathering of Muslims in the United Kingdom as an official guest. This gathering, known as Jalsa Salana, drew more than 50,000 visitors from all over the world. Held over the British summer weekend of July 28th, 29th, and 30th, 2023, the gathering brought together a diverse group of people in an atmosphere of mutual respect and commitment. Moreover, over 5000 people volunteered their time and effort towards the grand organization of this conference.
Conference Highlights
The conference began with prayers, followed by the ceremony of raising the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat, a flag symbolizing spiritual unity and purpose. Passages from the Holy Quran were recited in both Urdu and Persian, underscoring the international nature of the gathering. A notable moment was the address by Hazrat Amirul Momineen Khalifatul Masih V, providing spiritual guidance and wisdom to the gathering. His words were received as guidance on the path to spiritual enlightenment.
Deep Insight
On the following day, Saturday, July 29th, 2023, the day was ushered in with the Tahajjud prayer and reflections on the importance of the Imam and the certainty of the Khilafat. This was followed by a visit from Hazrat Amirul Momineen Khalifatul Masih V to the Ladies Jalsa Gah, accompanied by the recitation of an Urdu poem.
Profound Explanation of the Hadith
The last day of the conference began with prayers and a profound explanation of the Hadith. Dr. Sir Iftikhar Ahmad Ayaz gave a speech emphasizing the example of the Holy Prophet as a guarantee for world peace. The event ended with the Isha and Maghrib prayers, followed by a festive meal.
Meeting with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad
I (Andy Vermaut) had the opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the head of the International Ahmadiya Muslim Community who organized the conference and is considered the global leader of these Muslims. This meeting was indeed a unique opportunity for me to learn more about his vision on global issues. I was impressed by his deep insights and sharp intellect, which helped me to better understand the complexity of worldly affairs. My gratitude goes out to Sharif Ahmad from Dilbeek (Belgium) and Ahmad Idrees from Brussels, Belgium, who organized this meeting with the global Muslim leader for me for the second time. After the conversation, I had the honor of handing a copy of my specially prepared speech for this unique gathering to the spiritual leader. It was a moment that further emphasized the comprehensive significance of this gathering. Among the guests of honor was also the former Prime Minister of Niger, whose presence added an extra dimension to the international relevance of this gathering. His son, who is a minister of culture, had to flee Niger following last week’s coup. Each of these individuals contributed in their own way to the resonance of this encounter, creating a multifaceted melody of human solidarity and joint commitment to a better world.
Pillars of Strength
In this spectrum of exceptional individuals, two stars of Belgian origin shone brightly. Manel Msalmi, the chair of the Liberal Francophone Women in Brussels and an advisor to the European People’s Party in the European Parliament, was also present to savor the pleasure of this conference. She is a rock in the fight for the defense of oppressed minorities worldwide, an unshakeable symbol of courage and determination. Another notable attendee was Raphael de Macar from Brussels, a figure known in Brussels for his large benefit action on behalf of the cocoa farmers in Ivory Coast. His participation in this gathering underscored the importance of solidarity and the promotion of justice on a global scale.
Admiration and Respect
The dedication and energy shown by the global leader Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad is admirable. His presence and leadership have a noticeable influence on the members of the community. This meeting served as a source of inspiration and renewed my determination to continue defending the rights of Ahmadi Muslims worldwide.
Through this experience, I am fortified in my determination to fight against oppression, to stand up for the rights of marginalized groups, and to amplify the voices of the voiceless. It was an educational journey, one that gave me greater insight into the complexity of worldly affairs and the meaning of dedication and leadership.
(Report by Andy Vermaut, London, and Serge Jansen of www.westnieuws.be)
