Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad says new Mosque will be a beacon of peace :

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is pleased to announce that on 20 February 2016, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad inaugurated the Baitul Ikram Mosque (The House of Honour) in Leicester, England.

Upon arrival, His Holiness officially inaugurated the Mosque by unveiling a commemorative plaque and offering a silent prayer in thanks to God Almighty. His Holiness then led the Maghreb and Isha prayers at the new Mosque, before meeting local Ahmadi Muslims.

Later, a special reception, attended by more than 80 dignitaries and guests, was held to mark the opening of the Mosque. Various dignitaries and politicians, including Rt Hon, Keith Vaz MP and Simon Cole, Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police, attended.

The highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad during which he explained the true purposes of Mosques and highlighted the importance of fulfilling the rights of neighbours in light of the teachings of Islam.

Speaking of the history of the city of Leicester, His Holiness commended the tolerance and integration of its citizens.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“According to the 2011 Census, Leicester remains one of the UK’s most ethnically diverse cities. Indeed, I read that recently Narborough Road in Leicester was officially recognised as the most ethnically diverse road in the entire country. In my opinion, this should be considered as a badge of honour for this city and is evidence of Leicester’s successful model of integration and inclusiveness.

of the history of the city of Leicester, His Holiness commended the tolerance and integration of its citizens.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“According to the 2011 Census, Leicester remains one of the UK’s most ethnically diverse cities. Indeed, I read that recently Narborough Road in Leicester was officially recognised as the most ethnically diverse road in the entire country. In my opinion, this should be considered as a badge of honour for this city and is evidence of Leicester’s successful model of integration and inclusiveness. These are qualities that should never be forsaken or disregarded. As we are currently living in extremely precarious times, wherein much of the world is increasingly consumed by disorder and injustice, it is the critical need of the time that we promote and spread the tolerant values that this city has epitomised for so long. We must all work towards uniting society under the umbrella of humanity and seek to foster a spirit of mutual respect for each other’s values and beliefs.”

Concluding, His Holiness said:

“God Willing, this Mosque will come to be known as a beacon of light that illuminates its surroundings and will come to be known as a true symbol of peace in Leicester. May Allah enable the local Ahmadi Muslims to fulfill the true purposes for which this Mosque has been built. Ameen.”

Earlier, various guest speakers also took to the stage in order to congratulate the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community on the opening of the Baitul Ikram Mosque.

Simon Cole, Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police said:

“The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community works for the betterment of the community in Leicester and Leicestershire and so it is a privilege to be with you today and we will remain with you in spirt every day of every week of every year.”

Riaz Ravat BEM, Deputy Lieutenant Leicestershire said:

“The presence of this new Mosque strengthens Leicester’s reputation for inter-faith harmony. Certainly, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has proved itself as a selfless community that is contributing significantly to this country.”

Rt Hon Keith Vaz, MP for Leicester East said:

“This Mosque will not just be a refuge for the worshippers but is open to the entire community and will be means of spreading the Islamic values of peace and kindness… The presence of His Holiness (Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad) is a great honour for our city. Your presence is more important for us than anything else. It makes this a very, very special day.”

The formal session concluded with a silent prayer led by His Holiness followed by dinner.