Preparing for Jalsa by Malahat Jahan
Crowd cheering Ahmadiyyat zindabad, hymns and praises of the Almighty echoing, brothers and sisters hailing the charisma of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him). Yes, the three days of celebration of oneness in the name of humanity, brotherhood and spirit of mankind are almost upon us, kicking off on August 12th.
After 49 successful annual conventions, the fervor is to return for the 50th Jalsa UK and Hadeeqatul Mahdi will once again showcase the avidity again. The preparations are in full pace and volunteers have rolled up their sleeves. More than 30,000 people from across 80 different countries are expected to attend the blessed convention. I say blessed because it’s no ordinary gathering. In the words of the Promised Messiah Hazrath Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (Peace be on him), founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community,
“I re-emphasize that you must not rank this convention in the same league as other, ordinary, human assemblies. This is a phenomenon that is based purely on the Divine Help, for propagation of Islam.”
(Ishtihar 7 Dec. 1892, Majmoo`ah Ishtiharat Vol. I, Page 341)
Therefore, it’s recommended to all those who can make it, to take keen interest and make an effort to be a part of this pious gathering. It’s the retreat of nation in practice, geographical boundaries become mere lines of map. It was reported that last year, volunteers from the Canada Ahmadiyya chapter joined to assist the UK chapter in the preparations.
The Jalsa brings with it a vehemence in the heart of all believers, helping us to bond with our visitors, both Ahmadis and non-Ahmadis alike. The zeal in the air is positive and people show cheerfulness in putting things up to the mark. Both Khuddam and Lajna are leaving no stone unturned to make sure everything is in place before the big day.
Hospitality is just one aspect that makes us stand out in service to humanity. The support staff and the volunteering team are burning the midnight oil to make the Jalsa venue up to the mark. Exhibition of the collection of The Holy Quran, books by the Promised Messiah, books on the true teachings of Islam and Ahmadiyyat would be one of the key attractions. Free meals and accommodation to the attendees, parking facility and transport guidance are others to mention.
The speeches and addresses by the delegates at the convention are designed to impart the true teachings of Islam and send a message of peace. Quoting the Promised Messiah (as) again, “The work that God has entrusted me is, to reduce the gap between the Creator and His creations, to restore true spirit of relationship of love and dedication with God, to abolish religious wars through the light of truth, to lay the foundation of peace, to show examples of the religious truth, that is hidden from the sight of the mankind, to remove darkness, covered by the worldly desires.”
-Lecture Lahore 1st Edition p:43
The passion and readiness of people to serve during the Jalsa is communicable, creating an ambience of accord and harmony. The past experiences shared by visitors motivate us to do better and present the strength of the Jamayat with resolve and warmth.
