Masses of believers unite in Dilbeek for spiritual growth
Date: July 8, 2024
Location: Bait-us-Salam, Dilbeek
From July 5 to July 7, 2024, Dilbeek was transformed into a center of spiritual enlightenment during the annual Jalsa Salana, organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. This gathering, originally initiated by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, brought together masses of participants for a weekend of religious deepening and community bonding.
A journey to spiritual deepening
The primary goal of Jalsa Salana is to provide each participant with religious benefits and deepen their understanding of Allah. Additionally, the event fosters bonds among community members. Since its first announcement on December 7, 1892, this event remains a unique opportunity for believers to come together and pursue spiritual growth, despite minor inconveniences.
An extraordinary gathering
Jalsa Salana is no ordinary convention. Rooted in divine assistance, this gathering is intended for the propagation of Islam and offers numerous blessed objectives. Participants were encouraged to set aside minor discomforts in the service of Allah, with the promise that no effort would be in vain.
Highlights of the convention
The three-day conference began on Friday, July 5, 2024, with an inspiring sermon by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V. The flag ceremony and subsequent sessions included lectures and presentations on various topics such as the life of the Imam and the Jamaat’s action plan in case of a disaster. Throughout the weekend, there were also cultural presentations, joint prayers, and communal meals that strengthened the bonds within the community.
Perfect organization and hospitality
Thanks to an excellently organized parking and transportation system, the event ran smoothly. Visitors were kindly requested to park their vehicles at the designated parking area on Hendrik Placestraat 46, from where shuttle services transported them to the Jalsa Gah. Participants followed the parking team’s instructions, contributing to a smooth and respectful experience for everyone.
About the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Belgium
Since its establishment in 1985, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Belgium has centers in various cities such as Brussels, Ukkel, and Antwerp. With approximately 2300 members of diverse nationalities, the community plays an active role in society, organizing various activities and interfaith dialogues throughout the year.
Religious benefits and fraternal bonds
As mentioned earlier, the primary goal of the Jalsa Salana is to offer sincere participants the chance to experience personal religious benefits. Participants can expand their knowledge and deepen their perception of faith. Besides these spiritual benefits, the gathering also promotes mutual acquaintance and strengthens the fraternal bonds within the community.
Not an ordinary gathering
The Jalsa Salana is not a typical convention. For those able to make the journey, it is essential to attend this gathering, which pursues many blessed objectives. Participants are encouraged to ignore minor inconveniences in the service of their faith. The sincere efforts of participants are rewarded at every step, and no effort or hardship is in vain. This convention is unique in its character and its role in spreading religious values.
An unforgettable Jalsa Salana 2024: Highlights of three inspiring days
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Belgium once again organized an impressive Jalsa Salana from July 5 to July 7, 2024. These three days were filled with inspiring speeches, in-depth discussions, and spiritual growth. Below is a detailed overview of the key moments and highlights of the event.
Opening speech and spiritual reflection
The Jalsa Salana began on Friday at 10:00 AM with a solemn recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a translation and explanation. The day was officially opened with a speech by the national president of the Ahmadiyya Community, highlighting the spiritual and social goals of the gathering. The opening speech at 11:00 AM emphasized the need for unity and peace in the world.
Speech on faith and science
At 2:00 PM, Dr. Ahmed Khan gave a captivating presentation on the relationship between faith and science, highlighting the harmony between religious beliefs and scientific discoveries. This speech was followed by an interactive question-and-answer session.
Evening program: Brotherhood and social cohesion
The evening program began at 6:00 PM with a speech on the power of brotherhood and social cohesion within the community. The day ended with a communal prayer and dinner at 8:00 PM, providing participants with the opportunity to converse and share experiences.
Day 2: Saturday, July 6, 2024
Women’s program: Focus on role models and spirituality
The second day began with a special program for women, starting at 10:30 AM. The program included recitations, poems, and speeches on various topics, such as maintaining Islamic values within Western society and the life of Hazrat Aisha (ra). A significant speech at 12:15 PM highlighted the speaker’s personal spiritual journey to the Ahmadiyya community.
Youth program: Inspiration for the future
In the afternoon, at 2:00 PM, a special program for youth was organized. This program included workshops, interactive sessions, and speeches on leadership, social responsibility, and the role of youth in promoting peace. A notable moment was the speech by a young Ahmadiyya scholar who spoke about the meaning of true dedication to faith.
Day 3: Sunday, July 7, 2024
Morning program: Ethics and morality in the modern world
The third day began at 10:00 AM with a series of speeches on ethics and morality in the modern world. These sessions focused on the importance of honesty, integrity, and justice in both personal and professional settings. Participants were encouraged to actively promote these values in their daily lives.
Closing speech: A call for peace and unity
The Jalsa Salana concluded with a closing speech by the international representative of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, starting at 3:00 PM. In his speech, he called for peace, unity, and mutual understanding in the world. He emphasized the need for interfaith dialogue and cooperation to address global challenges.
A successful and inspiring gathering
The Jalsa Salana 2024 was a great success, offering participants a unique opportunity to deepen their faith, gain knowledge, and forge new friendships. The event ended with a communal prayer at 4:00 PM, followed by a farewell dinner.
Special thanks to Sharif Ahmad and Idrees Ahmad for exemplifying the power of community and personal engagement
The Jalsa Salana 2024 would not have been such a great success without the exceptional hospitality and dedication of Sharif Ahmad and Idrees Ahmad. Their willingness to welcome the Belgian community and open the doors for this meaningful dialogue is a testament to the power of community and the undeniable impact of personal involvement in peace initiatives.
Hospitality as a foundation
Sharif Ahmad and Idrees Ahmad played a crucial role in the success of the Jalsa Salana with their warm reception and careful organization. Their commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment ensured that all participants felt welcomed and valued. This personal engagement contributed not only to the practical execution of the event but also to the spiritual and emotional experience of all attendees.
An example of engagement
The commitment of Sharif Ahmad and Idrees Ahmad to peace initiatives and community building serves as an inspiring example for others. Their selfless contribution shows how individual actions can significantly impact promoting mutual understanding and harmony within a diverse society. By following their example, we can all contribute to a more peaceful and connected world.
Gratitude and recognition
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sharif Ahmad and Idrees Ahmad for their tireless efforts and exceptional hospitality shown during the Jalsa Salana 2024. Their dedication and commitment have left a lasting impression and contributed to the successful realization of this important event.
More information
External affairs office
E-mail: external.affairs@ahmadiyya.be
Tel: +32 474 72 33 72
