The Annual Convention (Jalsa Salana) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community United Kingdom is a unique event that brings over 50,000 participants from more than 90 countries to increase religious knowledge and promote a sense of peace in society. Eminent speakers discuss a range of religious topics and their relevance to contemporary society. Additionally, a number of parliamentarians, civic leaders and diplomats from different countries also address the gathering and underline the conventions objective of enhancing unity, understanding and mutual respect. A special feature of this convention is that it is blessed by the presence of His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. He addresses the convention over each of the three days, providing an invaluable insight into religious teachings and how they are a source of guidance for the world today.
The Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community was founded in 1889 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be upon him) of Qadian, India. He claimed under divine guidance to be the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi, whose advent was awaited by all the religions of the world. He championed the peaceful teachings of Islam, revived the Faith with a sense of purpose and inspired his followers to build a strong bond with God and to serve humanity with a selfless spirit of compassion and humility.
The community is now established in more than 210 countries and it spearheads an international effort to promote the true message of Islam and of service to humanity. It also leads a global peace campaign to champion respect and human rights for all. The United Kingdom chapter of the community was established in 1913 and it now has 130 branches, making it one of the oldest established Muslim communities in the United Kingdom. The community follows the true spirit of Islam and lives by its motto: Love for All, Hatred for None.
Importance of Jalsa Salana
“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. The foundation stone of this community has been laid by Allah Almighty Himself, and such nations have been prepared that will soon come and enter its fold. This is because it is the work of that All- Powerful Being, for Whom, nothing is impossible.”
An Announcement, dated 7 December 1892
“The key purpose of this convention, is to enable every sincere individual, to personally experience religious benefit, to broaden their knowledge and to deepen their understanding of Allah Almighty, by the grace and opportunity given by Him.”
(An Announcement, dated 7 December 1892)
“This is one of the needs of this convention that strategies for the spiritual well-being of Europe and America should be put forward. For this is now a proven fact that good-natured and sincere people from Europe and America are preparing to enter the fold of Islam.”
(An Announcement, dated 7 December 1892)