LONDON, United Kingdom – The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has officially launched its 60th annual Jalsa Salana convention in the United Kingdom, bringing together more than 40,000 participants from across the globe for one of the world’s largest Islamic spiritual gatherings.
The three-day convention has attracted worshippers from dozens of countries who will participate in prayers, religious discussions, educational sessions, and community-building activities aimed at strengthening faith and promoting global peace.
The event was formally inaugurated by His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, who hoisted the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and United Kingdom flags before delivering the opening address.
In his keynote speech, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad underscored the importance of brotherhood, righteousness, and God-consciousness (Taqwa) as the foundation of Islamic teachings.
“A person may claim to be a Muslim, but without Taqwa, they fail to fulfil the true essence of Islam,” he said.
The Ahmadiyya spiritual leader urged members of the community to remain steadfast in their faith while embracing peace, tolerance, humility, and mutual respect in their daily lives.
He emphasized that genuine faith in God should inspire compassion and unity among people regardless of their backgrounds.
“One who fears Allah and remains faithful to Him will be the most respected person in Islam,” Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad stated.
Delegates attending the convention echoed the Khalifa’s message, highlighting the role of faith in promoting peaceful coexistence and responsible leadership.
Ali Muwanda, a participant from Uganda, said Islam firmly rejects violence and called on Africans to uphold peace, especially during election periods.
“Violence is condemned in Islam. The Khalifa’s message is that voters should entrust leadership to those who deserve to lead. We should reject corruption and elect leaders who will build a just and peaceful society,” Muwanda said.
The annual gathering is expected to conclude on Sunday with the traditional Bai’at (Initiation) Ceremony, where tens of thousands of members will renew their pledge of allegiance and reaffirm their commitment to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and its principles of peace, justice, and service to humanity.
The Jalsa Salana remains one of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s most significant annual events, providing a platform for spiritual renewal, religious education, and fostering unity among members from different nations and cultures.
