“Ramdan is an Occasion to Discharge Duties towards God as well as towards the Society at Large” -Opine Diplomats at the Hugely Attended Iftar Get together, hosted by Islamic Center of Naperville, USA
“The month of Ramadan has been of great significance to Muslims across the world considering the revelation of holy Qur’an on Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali, the conquest of Macca, the battle of Badr, and similar other important events during this holy month. The celebration of Ramadan, therefore, should not be confined merely to abstaining from taking food or offering prayers; these should be accompanied by providing charity to the needy and by offering a wide range of services aimed at alleviating the lot of weaker segments of the society at large”, said Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Consul General of India in his address at the Iftar Get together, organized by the Islamic Center of Naperville. Continuing his address, he opined that Muslims should emerge as the
models, commensurate with the true spirit of Islam, which is characterized by PeaceJustice, Unity, and Brotherhood, to be emulated by people professing different faiths.
Mr. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Consul General of Pakistan, who also spoke on this occasion, said that historically mosques have not only been used for spiritual activities but also for addressing the wider issues relating to social, educational, and economic empowerment of Muslims. He felt that the practice of making use of the mosques for multifarious activities aimed at the total transformation of Muslims in keeping with the teaching of Islam should be further strengthened. “Considering the fact that the misdeeds of a few misguided elements among Muslims have been tarnishing the image of the community at large, the new generation should take a lion’s share of the emerging opportunities in education, policy making, print, electronic, and internet media, and similar other new-age avenues, with view to establishing bridges with different sections of the society and to spread the true
message of Islam”, opined Mr. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi.
The program continued with everyone rising and placing their right hands on their chest to recite the Pledge of Allegiance by ICN’s very own Boy Scouts Troop. The Scouts continued with the flag ceremony proudly holding up the American flag. It was an emotional moment for many in attendance to see the boys holding the American flag high.
Mr. Aadil Farid, President, Islamic Center of Naperville, who delivered the welcome address, said that the purpose of ICN is to serve Allah SWT and to address the needs of Muslims as well as those who belong to other religions. “ICN works very closely with people of other faiths to serve humanity, irrespective of caste, creed, and religion and encourages its members to follow the principles of Tolerance, Justice, Peace and Progress”, added Mr. Mr.
Aadil Farid.
Mr. Ashfaq Hussain Syed presented mementos to Dr. Ausaf Sayeed and Mr. Faisal Niaz Tirmiziand.
The Iftar Get together was attended by more than 700 community members representing not only India, Pakistan and Bangladesh but also Egypt, Jordan, Somalia, Iraq, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, etc.
Mr. Shakh Rizwan Ali, ICN’s Resident Scholar spoke about the significance of the month of Ramadan. This was followed by a recitation from the holy Qur’an by Mr. Shaykh Ismail AlQady. English translation was provided by Master Ayan Beg, a Boy Scout.Mr. Moin Haque, Chairman of the PEO Committee, ICN proposed a vote of thanks.
The proceedings of the program were conducted by Miss Sadia Covert.
Aadil Farid
President,
Islamic Center of Naperville