Posted By: KLTV Adminon: July 15, 2026In: News, The DEN
By KLTV Newsdesk –
The annual Ahmadiyya Muslim Community convention will welcome more than 50,000 participants from over 90 countries, with around 600 people travelling from Huddersfield.
More than 50,000 people from over 90 countries are expected to gather for this year’s Jalsa Salana UK, the annual convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, as hundreds of members from Huddersfield prepare to attend one of the country’s largest Islamic gatherings.
Held over three days, Jalsa Salana brings together religious scholars, parliamentarians, diplomats, civic leaders and community representatives to explore issues affecting society while promoting faith, peace, unity and humanitarian service.
The convention aims to deepen participants’ religious understanding, strengthen their spiritual connection with Allah Almighty and encourage mutual respect and harmony between communities.
A central feature of the event is the presence of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, who delivers addresses on each day of the convention.
His speeches focus on the peaceful teachings of Islam and offer guidance on addressing contemporary global challenges through justice, compassion and respect.
A Tradition Rooted in Peace and Service
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community was founded in 1889 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, India, who proclaimed himself to be the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi awaited by followers of various faiths.
His mission was to revive the peaceful teachings of Islam, strengthen humanity’s relationship with Allah and encourage people to serve others with humility, kindness and compassion.
Today, the community is established in more than 210 countries worldwide and continues to promote peace, religious freedom, human rights and humanitarian service.
The UK chapter, founded in 1913, now has 130 branches, making it one of the country’s longest-established Muslim communities.
Its internationally recognised motto remains: “Love for All, Hatred for None.”
A Convention for Spiritual Growth
The founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community described Jalsa Salana as far more than a conventional gathering, emphasising its spiritual purpose.
He said, “Do not consider this gathering to be the same as other ordinary, worldly gatherings. Rather, the case of this is such that it is founded upon the pure support of truth and the propagation of Islam.”
Alongside religious education and worship, the convention offers thousands of volunteers the opportunity to gain practical experience in leadership, teamwork, event management, hospitality and communication while serving guests throughout the event.
Around 600 Travelling from Huddersfield
Speaking ahead of this year’s convention, Fatihul-Haq, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association Huddersfield, said around 600 members from the town would be making the journey.
He said: “Approximately 600 members from Huddersfield will be travelling to attend Jalsa Salana, with some departing on Thursday and others joining on Friday morning to participate in this blessed gathering.
“Jalsa Salana is a truly unique event where people from across the United Kingdom and around the world come together. It welcomes individuals from different faiths, cultures and backgrounds, including scholars, faith leaders, politicians, charity representatives and community figures, all united by a common desire to promote peace, understanding and mutual respect.
“One of the special features of this year’s convention will be a large Quran exhibition displaying translations of the Holy Quran in more than 70 languages. This will provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the universal message of Islam and learn about its teachings.
“There will also be a wide range of exhibitions and charity stalls highlighting humanitarian work, community service and efforts to support those in need. A special award will be presented to an individual nominated by the committee in recognition of outstanding international humanitarian work and dedication to serving humanity.”
Promoting Peace Through Faith
Fatihul-Haq said the convention provides an opportunity to address some of the world’s most pressing issues through the teachings of Islam.
He added: “Jalsa Salana provides an opportunity to present Islamic solutions for peace and stability and to address the challenges facing the world today. His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, may Allah be his helper, will address the gathering over all three days, sharing guidance based on Islamic teachings about establishing peace and ending conflicts. These addresses will be broadcast worldwide through MTA International and other platforms.
“This convention is especially valuable for our youth and children, as it provides an environment where they can learn the true teachings of Islam, develop positive values and understand their responsibility to become loyal, peaceful and constructive citizens of the countries where they live.”
Volunteers at the Heart of the Event
Thousands of volunteers will help ensure the smooth running of the convention by supporting visitors with everything from parking and catering to medical assistance and accessibility services.
Fatihul-Haq said: “Thousands of volunteers dedicate their time to serve guests, whether through parking arrangements, food distribution, water services, assisting elderly and disabled attendees, or providing general support.
“Guests attending Jalsa Salana are provided with essential facilities, including free meals, clean drinking water, accommodation support where required, medical assistance and a wide range of services to ensure everyone can participate comfortably and peacefully. This spirit of hospitality reflects the Islamic teaching of honouring guests and caring for one another.”
Building Skills for the Future
He also highlighted the benefits volunteering brings to young people, describing the convention as an opportunity to develop valuable life skills while serving others.
He said: “For our youth, Jalsa Salana is also a remarkable training ground. By volunteering, they learn how to manage large-scale events, communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds, work as a team, handle unexpected situations and develop leadership skills. These are lifelong skills gained through service and dedication, without any cost or formal training fees.”
Looking Towards a More Peaceful World
As global conflicts and divisions continue to grow, organisers believe the convention has an increasingly important role in encouraging dialogue and understanding.
Concluding, Fatihul-Haq said: “In today’s world, where conflicts, divisions and misunderstandings are increasing, gatherings such as Jalsa Salana are more important than ever. They provide a platform where people can come together, build bridges, encourage dialogue and promote peace, harmony and community cohesion.
“We are all very excited and looking forward to attending this blessed gathering, serving guests and playing our part in promoting the message of peace, so that we can leave a better and more peaceful world for future generations.”
Categories: Ahmadis, Ahmadiyyat: True Islam, Europe, Jalsa Salana, UK