I have been asked to sum up my Jalsa experiences on a sheet of paper; a daunting task to say the least. How can I possibly put into words the emotions and sentiments that dominate my existence during these blessed days? Nothing in the world can compare to the spirituality and blessings that are felt during our annual convention where people of all cultures, backgrounds and nationalities unite with the same purpose – the chance for reformation, spiritual advancement and striving to gain nearness to Allah the Almighty. Jalsa brings a true sense of love, harmony and brotherhood and is a spiritual experience that needs to be felt in its entirety.
If I were to pick my most memorable moment, without a doubt each year my answer would be the same. The International Ba’ait. Under the Divine leadership of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih V, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, (may Allah be his helper), worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, each year Jalsa is a renewal of my faith, an opportunity to self-reflect and strive for the betterment of my entire being. Jalsa is an opportunity to promote peace and unity, which defines what the true Islam stands for in the light of the declining situation of the world at present.
My Jalsa memories of the ladies’ session always starts with the privilege of listening to the powerful words of our Khalifa and ends with the nostalgic and harmonious African version of ‘Laillaha’ which is undoubtedly unforgettable. My sisters and I also look forward to reading nazms each year in front of our beloved Khalifa beside other Lajna and Nasirat. This is a truly spiritual part of my Jalsa experience as it ties all the various countries together. We pride in reciting different languages as it attests to the truth and beauty of Khilafat for all of mankind.
Every year we make new friends and meet new people from all around the world. We are honoured to hear their stories, learn of their devotion and the path that led them to Ahmadiyat. Marking the 50th year of this event in the UK, words cannot express my gratitude of being able to partake in these blessings of the community of the Promised Messiah (as) and I look forward to participating in Jalsa this year.
by Momina Jowaheer
