“True Islam is of peace, tolerance, respect and brotherhood — Not the one presented or practiced by ISIS or Boko Haram or Al Qaeda or Taliban…“

-Imam Shamshad

Imam Syed Shamshad Nasir of the Ahmadiyya Muslims Community’s Bait-ul-Jaam’e Mosque, Glen Ellyn, IL, USA

Members of the Chicago Ahmadiyya Muslim Community celebrated Eid-ul-Adha, a holy day honoring Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for God’s pleasure, on Thursday September 24th at Bait-ul-Jamay Mosque, Glen Ellyn.

Eid-ul-Adha is celebrated at the end of the hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca where millions of people gather for the unity and the oneness of God in Islam. This event consisted of 800 Ahmadi Muslim members from different parts of Chicago and its surrounding area. It also welcomed a few non-Muslim guests. The event started with the Eid-ul-Adha prayers followed by a sermon by Imam Syed Shamshad Nasir.

Eid Celebrations at Ahmadiyya Muslims Community’s Bait-ul-Jaam’e Mosque, Glen Ellyn, IL, USA

Imam Nasir in his sermon explained the true meaning behind the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha and the significance of sacrifice that Abraham made for God’s pleasure.

He said this Eid is not only about sacrificing animal for God’s pleasure but is also about willing to sacrifice one’s most precious object in order to receive God’s pleasure. As Prophet Abraham was willing to sacrifice his most precious thing, his son, only for God; we should also similarly strive for that high spirituality.

He also said that on these joyous occasions we should never forget the less fortunate people and sacrifice our time and money only for the sake of God’s pleasure.

Imam Shamshad Nasir also emphasized in his sermon that Islam means peace and our religion was established on the basis of peace.
Prophet Abraham and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon them both) had made many sacrifices on the name of peace and we as their followers should follow their guidelines and establish peace in our society.

He also stated that as the true followers of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) we, all Muslims, condemn all the actions of ISIS, Al-Qaeda and other similar organizations which promote violence in the name of Islam and the “Mercy for Mankind” Prophet Muhammad (saw). This, he said, is not the true Islam.

The true Islam is of peace and brotherhood, and ISIS is trying to taint the true nam of Islam.

Imam SHAMSHAD stressed to give good training especially to the youth and children and teach them obedience as well as worship of the one God, so that they can be true servants of God Almighty.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community are also in a state of mourning after the recent tragic event that occurred at the valley of Mina in Saudi Arabia. More than 700 pilgrims died after a tragic stampede occurred at the holy site causing Muslims around the world to grieve for their fellow brothers and sisters.

After the sermon Imam lead all present in silent prayer for all Muslims and humanity.

Lunch at Ahmadiyya Muslims Community’s Bait-ul-Jaam’e Mosque, Glen Ellyn, IL, USA

People greated each other and special lunch was served to all members and guests.

Imam Shamshad
Baitul ul Jaam’e Mosque, 2 S 510 Route 53, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Call: 909-636-8332
Email: shamshadanasir@gmail.com