In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.
Our Resident Alim Respected Maulana Syed Iftikar Abid Naqvi, Respect Zakira Nafees Fatema, Scholars, my elders of the community, brothers and sisters in Imaan, Salaamun Alaiykum.
(Ya Allah) help us to overcome this state of affairs at once. Disperse the ominous clouds hanging over our heads; lend a helping hand to achieve success; bring in the rule of justice and fair play.
It is with these inspired words taught by Imame Zamana (AFT), in Dua e Iftitah, that, on behalf of the EC and all the boards, I greet you on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.
I want to begin by thanking Allah (swt) for once again giving us all the opportunity to witness this holy month of mercy, and I pray that may He accept all our good deeds, forgive our shortcomings and continue to give us guidance, courage and strength to remain on the right path throughout our lives, Ameen.
With the early iftar timing, we kept Iftar on certain days, sparing time for families to have iftar together at home as well. Bear in mind, for the coming years the timing will be even earlier and we will need to adjust accordingly.
This year the unity Iftaar of all the communities in Montreal was held at Alhulbayt center bringing all of us under one roof. The concept is simple yet very effective and allows people from all backgrounds to engage with their Muslim brothers to break down barriers and foster strong relations.
The 21st night being a Sunday of a long-weekend and Shab-Qadr, we planned a Shabedari night in honor of no another then Amir-ul-Momineen, our first Imam, Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (AS) Arrangement were made for those with young children, and they had the opportunity to leave after Ammals as there was majlis the next day. Alhamdulillah at the time of Sehri we were nearly 200 with both gents and ladies. As part of the organizing team, that scene was a great encouragement. The support and the cooperation from the members were very much appreciated. Thank you.
As always, our annual ramadhan spiritual retreat with special activities organized for the participants was a great success. In a world filled with distractions and fast-paced living, it’s crucial to carve out moments where our children can connect with their spiritual roots. These spiritual nights offer precisely that—a sanctuary where young minds can find solace, guidance, and inspiration amidst the chaos of modern life.
The Sheri program was a hit, alhamdullilah. We had games and activities for all ages. A night full of fun, refreshments and a nice BBQ. These gatherings provide a unique opportunity for intergenerational bonding. As our children sit alongside elders, listening to stories, looking at their actions, they absorb not only knowledge but also the wisdom passed down through generations. Such experiences foster a sense of belonging and connection to their spiritual heritage, which is invaluable in shaping their character and worldview.
In preparation of the retreat and sehri night fund raiser, we were able to collect money for children of Gaza, we were lucky to have someone on the ground there. We were able to feed children and provide basic necessities for them in theses hard times.
Last Sunday, we rented a bus to participate in the Al-Quds day march downtown Montreal. Attendees included madrassa students and members of our community. Their participation in the march is not just about bearing witness; it is also about empowerment. By allowing our children to participate in events, we empower them to raise their voices, to speak out against injustice, and to become agents of positive change in their communities and beyond.
During the holy month of Ramadhan, so many people were involved in making each and every event possible and successful. Our resident Alim helped bring us all, including youngsters, to the next level of spirituality. Our generous donors towards Iftars, sehri and other funds. Our board of ladies spent a tremendous amount of time and energy to ensure smooth running of all the programs along with the EC and BOD. All our volunteers, in both the ladies and gents’ side that helped set up the food, preparing, cleaning and washing, Dua recitation, Amaal’s and various other activities.
All left the comfort of their home and gave time for our community. On behalf of the EC, I would like to thank each one of you for your time and efforts. May Allah (swt) reward you in this world and the hereafter, Ameen.
May I request a loud Salawaat for all of them.
On this special day, let us all forgive each other and pray to Allah (swt) for each other and for the acceptance of our Amaal’s, for the safety and long life of our Ulemaas and Marjas, for peace around the world and to hasten the reappearance of our 12th Imam (as).
I want to conclude by remembering all those who are no longer with us this Eid with a Surah Fateha.
Once again, on behalf of the EC, I wish you and your families, a happy and blessed Eid!
Wassalam,
Irshad Dhalla
President, SHIA INC.