Islam teaches peace, respect, harmony & justice for all without discrimination of caste, creed & color.
-Imam Syed Shamshad Nasir
Report by Fizan abdullah Chicago
On September 9, 2016 Imam Shamshad was invited to the installation of Rabbi Andrea Cosnowsky. The event was held at the congregation Etz Chaim of Dupage County, 1710 S Highland Ave, Lombard Illinois, which had a close relationship with the Ahmadiyya Muslim community for many years.
Rabbi Cosnowsky invited Imam Shamshad of the Ahmadiyya Muslim as well as many interfaith leaders to the Installation ceremony and Shabbat services.
Picture (Left to Right): Rabbi Cosnoskwy, Reverend Jim Honig, Imam Shamshad Nasir, Father George Smith
Christian congregations leaders Father George Smith, Reverend Jim Honig, Turkish American society of Wheaton , Jewish leaders from the Etz Chaim community, and Reverend Jay Moses were all present.
The installation event started with a dinner at 6:30pm, in honor of the Rabbi after which services were held at 8:15 pm. Ex Rabbi Bob opened the ceremony and invited Father George Smith and Reverend Jim Honig for an opening Prayer after which Imam Shamshad was requested to also welcome the congregation.
Imam Shamshad recited Al-Fateha (opening chapter of the Holy Qur’an) and then bestowed sentiments of peace to the more than 350 members and guests.
Imam Shamshad explained that the greetings of peace he presented are the same that true teachings of Islam represent. Imam Shamshad further explained that true peace can only be achieved when we begin in from our own local environments. This begins with peace at home, peace with our spouses, parents, and children. Beyond our families, we need to check ourselves if our conduct is promoting peace in our neighborhood, community and city.
As a further extension to this concept, he explained, the Religion of Islam promotes tolerance and harmony towards all without discrimination.
Imam Shamshad also drew the attention towards another important factor that without which peace cannot be achieved is “justice”. This means that the rights of others should be fulfilled without any discrimination or personal interest. Imam then presented a copy of the Book “The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam” by the founder of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be on him) to Rabbi Andrea Cosnowsky and assured her congregation that we will work together in close cooperation with the Congregation at Etz Chaim and the broader community for the benefit everyone in the community. Imam Shamshad also gave some copies of The Muslim Sunrise to other Religious leaders as well.
Dr Fizan Abdullah and Mohammad Latif of glen Ellyn came along with the Imam.