Amazing Grace in the twinning of Firaz and Candy
Good things come to those who wait
And so it is Firaz and Candy’s date
A journey of two hearts
Tickled and giggled, a twin of life-smarts
Love birds of an intriguing nature
The canje pheasant weds the humming bird, so pure
While nightingales serenade gracious guests
From Vancouver flutters lovely canaries in their nests
Off and On
Whether the compatibility
Lower the bar goes the song
And love will climb over quickly
Like your loved ones’ success
Like your Prophet’s love so numerous
Criticize, challenge but do protect
And every sunrise will be like today, so perfect
Candy, the epitome of modesty
Firaz, the pinnacle of care and self dignity
In twinning each other’s quality
Alas, a marriage of longevity.
Oh Allah, Ameen!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
News of Muslims Events in Toronto for June 2008
IMO celebrates its 10th anniversary with great pomp and inclusiveness.
After ten years on the ground, the famous Masjid and banquet hall, International Muslim Organization, IMO recently held its anniversary. While some would think this should have been a free program where all can come, the majority seem to agree that it’s time our Masjid gets the rightful honor with a pomp and camaraderie like any of the gala diners organizations put on.
In attendance, among notable others, were great leaders of the community, many donors and friends of IMO from as far as Waterloo and even abroad.
Imam Shibly was around, a former IMO Imam now in Edmonton who emphasized the Dawa to Canadians and Moulana Faiz from UK, who emphasized educating the youths.
Imam H Slimi, present Imam, reminded us of the past and its struggles and the vision forward- youths and their activities.
President Umar Farouk was right when he said some time back: “We take it as a task upon ourselves to establish good relations with both our fellow Muslims and fellow Canadians. Both of our spiritual and administrative leadership are working for more educational and youth programs as well as the Muslim Community Development in all fields and domains. There is a lot to be done to empower the Muslim individuals especially in terms of education, social welfare and spiritual guidance. Our counseling sessions and daily and weekly programs are meant to answer the needs of the community members.”
Habeeb Alli presented a poem on IMO, recalling the fact that it’s the women who are the real backbone of this successful multi-faceted organization. See www.imooftoronto.com
ISARC fights poverty through the Interfaith powers
The power of Faith is often reengaged to that of a hidden spiritual world. How often social justice means the difference your religion can make in reducing poverty or fighting AIDS?
Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition was formed a few years ago to reduce poverty in the province of Ontario. Recently a conference was held in a beautiful resort in the Northern town of Keswick. These two days deliberation was attended by many Christians, Jews, Muslims and Hindus. The organization mandates itself in collaborating as Faith leaders and make a positive, non violent, advocacy towards policy makers since 49 per cent of Canadians claim they are only a pay check or two away from poverty.
The Canadian Council of Imams is a participatory member and while Imam AbdulHai Patel was way on another anti poverty conference in Japan, Imam Habeeb Alli, secretary of the CCI attended. A wonderful presentation on the Golden Rule was presented by Paul McKenna and the continuous advocacy through attending the Deb Mathews public deliberations, media coverage and writing to the political parties.
Muslims are significantly affected by this poverty as they make up the majority of immigrants but it was also noted that many Canadians born here are also suffering and with rising cost of living definitely something has to be done to save us from poverty. Poverty breeds disbelief and heresy as much as causes misery and pity, comments the present Secretary Mr. Brice Palmer. See www.isarc.ca
Healing Presence in the Muslim Faith
Understanding what it takes to heal is not only a doctor’s job. Or for that matter your loving family members’. It takes lots of spiritual care and we are lucky in Canada that that cultural sensitivity is recognized. But Chaplains have it tough. These gentle souls tend to sick Muslims or inmates while they themselves may not be Muslims. They may be able to deal with some general issues but not the more intense religious ones. Muslim Chaplains is therefore need with 1million Muslims in Canada and growing. For now the Ontario Multi Faith Council must be commended for having almost 35 chaplains registered with them and for working with all faiths.
This year’s annual conference discussed healing and how different faiths respond to its needs. The conference was held at the Glendon College in Toronto and presenters emphasized the need to be prayerful, take medications, being patient and work with the spirit of healing at all times. Imam Habeeb Alli spoke of the rahmah or Allah’s mercy as being the source of healing and the patient actually swims in Allah’s ocean of mercy as much as the visitors and doctors must be aware of that presence. Two important points were reiterated- avoid the hallucination of evil Jinns possessing someone and hence not seeking medical attention and be cautious of the after care after being cured as hastiness is from Satan.
Among the many presenters and workshops was an official from the Chaplaincy Ontario and from Correctional Service ready to answer the many questions chaplains and their clients encounter. Of course more Qurans, prayer mats and books are always needed and hence welcome. The Canadian council of Imams is a board member OF OMC.
See www.omc.ca
Imams discuss the delicate question of polygamy in Toronto
As the opinions roared back and forth recently on the issue of one local Imam supporting the issue of polygamous marriages despite its contravention it was thought that the Canadian Council of Imams should discuss this issue. North American Muslim Foundation hosted the forum and entertained the attendees with a sumptuous dinner. Imam Shabbir Ally, TV host, debater and Ph D candidate facilitated the discussions.
While the article written by Shahryar Shaikh evoked many angered responses and the many Imams wanted a forum, the issue surround more than a defense of polygamy as declared in the Quran- the women’s rights in this issue must be seen as Canadians are very much concerned about this, the legality as per the law, the security of the family, the Quranic nuances and its interpretations. Imam AbdulHai being a former Human Rights Commissioner emphasized the need to make sure these families are financially secured and only by registering the marriages will this be possible, Dr Timothy of the York Islamic Studies Department spoke about using the Quran as the defender and not assuming Allah’s thoughts for any revelation and Shahryar Shaikh asked what will become of the extra women in the world.
By and large there is need for more forums, more research and definitely more input from lawyers and other experts. The Jamiatul Ulama made a special effort to attend and almost twenty Imams and Scholars came that beautiful evening, praying at the new Masjid Qurtaba in Scarborough, managed by NAMF.
Relay for life event Muslims play a big role.
Every year they come to light candles and make dua. These are Muslims who may be survivors of cancer, relatives and friends of such survivors who come out to support. But many are grieving the lost of their loved ones to this mysterious killer- cancer.
Millions are raised yearly for research and no doubt much has improved in terms of diagnosis, treatment and care since Terry Fox made cancer an everyday man’s concern.
For many years Nadeem Memon and Majied Ali will meet at the Islamic Foundation and discuss with cancer patients some aspect of their health, being cancer survivors themselves. They have also explored alternative medicine. For the past three years at the vigil held at the Birchmount Recreational Park Muslims would overnight with others, participate in the walk raising money, enjoy great food and concert and of course pray together and gather to listen to a talk on health. This year Moulana Habeeb spoke on Healing in Islam and dedicated his speech to a once striving Muslim activist, Zakiya, who passed away silently this year, as she succumbed to the deadly disease after a long battle.
May Allah grant her and all others a lasting place in Janna, grant cure and healing to the victims and protect us all from such a disease. May Allah grant the patience to the loved ones and guidance to the researchers. Amen. See ww.MuslimCancerSupport.ca
Hijab women fight against their discriminatory dismissal at UPS.
Not often you hear of someone picking up the fight on behalf of Hijabis. Well in Toronto it’s different. Workers Action Centre organized a powerful evening of talks, entertainment and social justice mobilization last week in Innis College, UFT.
Eight Somalian Hijabis were working at UPS, according the WAC newsletter, and they were not made permanent on the job. The reason given was their hijab although they worked at the UPS firm before. In seeking justice Workers Action Centre noted that people should not to be discriminated thanks to their choice of religion and not by gender, since hijab is a gender issue
The email invite for this program was circulated by the Faith of Life Network and thank Allah, Muslims did turn out. Uzma Shakir was master of ceremonies and she had the victim speak a swell as a notable social activist in Toronto. There was music and lots of food. The Jazz belted out by Rose from LAL, a musical group, was phenomenal- a Bengali girl born in Canada doing American blues, crying out to save Muslim women!
Interfaith Dialogue and Fundraising Dinner held fro the first time at NAMF.
Those accustomed to attending dinners will know Interfaith dialogue is not part of the menu. Maybe tongue lashing talks are. Also those attending the many NAMF programs know that while they are well organized, they can’t remember Interfaith added to the string of fundraisers for whatever causes.
This Saturday it was different. Fr. David Warren of the Scarborough Missions, a Catholic Priest fro 30 years, discussed on stage the life of Jesus and his impact on living in diverse Canada. Imam Dr. Munir El Kassem then took his turn and showed Jesus is a prophet who taught respect and like all Prophets he did not teach anything different from Islamic theology. Fr Warren showed that fighting poverty would be one the things Jesus, on whom be peace, would have definitely emphasized if he was to live in Canada. The audience asked questions and interacted respectfully.
Dr Munir elKasem went on to fundraise for the news Masjid Qurtaba which is prime property purchased by North American Muslim Foundation for 3.5 M with 100 Ks already paid, another due very soon and the remainder to be paid in 5 years.
Appeal is on going for this project that includes the relief, Islamic school and gym plus a banquet hall for any functions. The food was just great coming from MF Halal and thanks to many donors and sponsors it was success. Two local comedians, Saad Kayani and Azfar Alli performed to the happy response of the mixed audience.
See www.namf.ca
After ten years on the ground, the famous Masjid and banquet hall, International Muslim Organization, IMO recently held its anniversary. While some would think this should have been a free program where all can come, the majority seem to agree that it’s time our Masjid gets the rightful honor with a pomp and camaraderie like any of the gala diners organizations put on.
In attendance, among notable others, were great leaders of the community, many donors and friends of IMO from as far as Waterloo and even abroad.
Imam Shibly was around, a former IMO Imam now in Edmonton who emphasized the Dawa to Canadians and Moulana Faiz from UK, who emphasized educating the youths.
Imam H Slimi, present Imam, reminded us of the past and its struggles and the vision forward- youths and their activities.
President Umar Farouk was right when he said some time back: “We take it as a task upon ourselves to establish good relations with both our fellow Muslims and fellow Canadians. Both of our spiritual and administrative leadership are working for more educational and youth programs as well as the Muslim Community Development in all fields and domains. There is a lot to be done to empower the Muslim individuals especially in terms of education, social welfare and spiritual guidance. Our counseling sessions and daily and weekly programs are meant to answer the needs of the community members.”
Habeeb Alli presented a poem on IMO, recalling the fact that it’s the women who are the real backbone of this successful multi-faceted organization. See www.imooftoronto.com
ISARC fights poverty through the Interfaith powers
The power of Faith is often reengaged to that of a hidden spiritual world. How often social justice means the difference your religion can make in reducing poverty or fighting AIDS?
Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition was formed a few years ago to reduce poverty in the province of Ontario. Recently a conference was held in a beautiful resort in the Northern town of Keswick. These two days deliberation was attended by many Christians, Jews, Muslims and Hindus. The organization mandates itself in collaborating as Faith leaders and make a positive, non violent, advocacy towards policy makers since 49 per cent of Canadians claim they are only a pay check or two away from poverty.
The Canadian Council of Imams is a participatory member and while Imam AbdulHai Patel was way on another anti poverty conference in Japan, Imam Habeeb Alli, secretary of the CCI attended. A wonderful presentation on the Golden Rule was presented by Paul McKenna and the continuous advocacy through attending the Deb Mathews public deliberations, media coverage and writing to the political parties.
Muslims are significantly affected by this poverty as they make up the majority of immigrants but it was also noted that many Canadians born here are also suffering and with rising cost of living definitely something has to be done to save us from poverty. Poverty breeds disbelief and heresy as much as causes misery and pity, comments the present Secretary Mr. Brice Palmer. See www.isarc.ca
Healing Presence in the Muslim Faith
Understanding what it takes to heal is not only a doctor’s job. Or for that matter your loving family members’. It takes lots of spiritual care and we are lucky in Canada that that cultural sensitivity is recognized. But Chaplains have it tough. These gentle souls tend to sick Muslims or inmates while they themselves may not be Muslims. They may be able to deal with some general issues but not the more intense religious ones. Muslim Chaplains is therefore need with 1million Muslims in Canada and growing. For now the Ontario Multi Faith Council must be commended for having almost 35 chaplains registered with them and for working with all faiths.
This year’s annual conference discussed healing and how different faiths respond to its needs. The conference was held at the Glendon College in Toronto and presenters emphasized the need to be prayerful, take medications, being patient and work with the spirit of healing at all times. Imam Habeeb Alli spoke of the rahmah or Allah’s mercy as being the source of healing and the patient actually swims in Allah’s ocean of mercy as much as the visitors and doctors must be aware of that presence. Two important points were reiterated- avoid the hallucination of evil Jinns possessing someone and hence not seeking medical attention and be cautious of the after care after being cured as hastiness is from Satan.
Among the many presenters and workshops was an official from the Chaplaincy Ontario and from Correctional Service ready to answer the many questions chaplains and their clients encounter. Of course more Qurans, prayer mats and books are always needed and hence welcome. The Canadian council of Imams is a board member OF OMC.
See www.omc.ca
Imams discuss the delicate question of polygamy in Toronto
As the opinions roared back and forth recently on the issue of one local Imam supporting the issue of polygamous marriages despite its contravention it was thought that the Canadian Council of Imams should discuss this issue. North American Muslim Foundation hosted the forum and entertained the attendees with a sumptuous dinner. Imam Shabbir Ally, TV host, debater and Ph D candidate facilitated the discussions.
While the article written by Shahryar Shaikh evoked many angered responses and the many Imams wanted a forum, the issue surround more than a defense of polygamy as declared in the Quran- the women’s rights in this issue must be seen as Canadians are very much concerned about this, the legality as per the law, the security of the family, the Quranic nuances and its interpretations. Imam AbdulHai being a former Human Rights Commissioner emphasized the need to make sure these families are financially secured and only by registering the marriages will this be possible, Dr Timothy of the York Islamic Studies Department spoke about using the Quran as the defender and not assuming Allah’s thoughts for any revelation and Shahryar Shaikh asked what will become of the extra women in the world.
By and large there is need for more forums, more research and definitely more input from lawyers and other experts. The Jamiatul Ulama made a special effort to attend and almost twenty Imams and Scholars came that beautiful evening, praying at the new Masjid Qurtaba in Scarborough, managed by NAMF.
Relay for life event Muslims play a big role.
Every year they come to light candles and make dua. These are Muslims who may be survivors of cancer, relatives and friends of such survivors who come out to support. But many are grieving the lost of their loved ones to this mysterious killer- cancer.
Millions are raised yearly for research and no doubt much has improved in terms of diagnosis, treatment and care since Terry Fox made cancer an everyday man’s concern.
For many years Nadeem Memon and Majied Ali will meet at the Islamic Foundation and discuss with cancer patients some aspect of their health, being cancer survivors themselves. They have also explored alternative medicine. For the past three years at the vigil held at the Birchmount Recreational Park Muslims would overnight with others, participate in the walk raising money, enjoy great food and concert and of course pray together and gather to listen to a talk on health. This year Moulana Habeeb spoke on Healing in Islam and dedicated his speech to a once striving Muslim activist, Zakiya, who passed away silently this year, as she succumbed to the deadly disease after a long battle.
May Allah grant her and all others a lasting place in Janna, grant cure and healing to the victims and protect us all from such a disease. May Allah grant the patience to the loved ones and guidance to the researchers. Amen. See ww.MuslimCancerSupport.ca
Hijab women fight against their discriminatory dismissal at UPS.
Not often you hear of someone picking up the fight on behalf of Hijabis. Well in Toronto it’s different. Workers Action Centre organized a powerful evening of talks, entertainment and social justice mobilization last week in Innis College, UFT.
Eight Somalian Hijabis were working at UPS, according the WAC newsletter, and they were not made permanent on the job. The reason given was their hijab although they worked at the UPS firm before. In seeking justice Workers Action Centre noted that people should not to be discriminated thanks to their choice of religion and not by gender, since hijab is a gender issue
The email invite for this program was circulated by the Faith of Life Network and thank Allah, Muslims did turn out. Uzma Shakir was master of ceremonies and she had the victim speak a swell as a notable social activist in Toronto. There was music and lots of food. The Jazz belted out by Rose from LAL, a musical group, was phenomenal- a Bengali girl born in Canada doing American blues, crying out to save Muslim women!
Interfaith Dialogue and Fundraising Dinner held fro the first time at NAMF.
Those accustomed to attending dinners will know Interfaith dialogue is not part of the menu. Maybe tongue lashing talks are. Also those attending the many NAMF programs know that while they are well organized, they can’t remember Interfaith added to the string of fundraisers for whatever causes.
This Saturday it was different. Fr. David Warren of the Scarborough Missions, a Catholic Priest fro 30 years, discussed on stage the life of Jesus and his impact on living in diverse Canada. Imam Dr. Munir El Kassem then took his turn and showed Jesus is a prophet who taught respect and like all Prophets he did not teach anything different from Islamic theology. Fr Warren showed that fighting poverty would be one the things Jesus, on whom be peace, would have definitely emphasized if he was to live in Canada. The audience asked questions and interacted respectfully.
Dr Munir elKasem went on to fundraise for the news Masjid Qurtaba which is prime property purchased by North American Muslim Foundation for 3.5 M with 100 Ks already paid, another due very soon and the remainder to be paid in 5 years.
Appeal is on going for this project that includes the relief, Islamic school and gym plus a banquet hall for any functions. The food was just great coming from MF Halal and thanks to many donors and sponsors it was success. Two local comedians, Saad Kayani and Azfar Alli performed to the happy response of the mixed audience.
See www.namf.ca
Happy 141st Birthday, Canada!
Born in the North
Amassed from your British father
Lands and peoples gathered
To fly under the Dominion
You continue to be fertile
Millions at this age and more still coming
150 nations migrated for your freedoms
May you be rich and strong far from Olympic rebukes
While fireworks and barbeque riddle your birthday bash
Many still working and some can't find any
Wrapped around my heart ribbons of red and white
Pinned unto my vest my birth land's green and black
Oh Canada
Land of widespread peace
We say Salam to your sons and daughters
Forever you be at ease.
Amassed from your British father
Lands and peoples gathered
To fly under the Dominion
You continue to be fertile
Millions at this age and more still coming
150 nations migrated for your freedoms
May you be rich and strong far from Olympic rebukes
While fireworks and barbeque riddle your birthday bash
Many still working and some can't find any
Wrapped around my heart ribbons of red and white
Pinned unto my vest my birth land's green and black
Oh Canada
Land of widespread peace
We say Salam to your sons and daughters
Forever you be at ease.
Monday, June 16, 2008
IMO Tenth Anniversary poem of congrats
IMO WAY TO GO
IMO-INTERESTING MAGNIFICENT ORGANIZERS
THE TEARS AND SWEAT OF TEN YEARS
SYNONONYMOUS WITH GLOBAL ACTIVE BLISS
SYNONONYMOUS WITH GLOBAL ACTIVE BLISS
MAKES EVERY CENT WORTH A 1000 MASJIDS
WHAT THEY SAID? YOU WOULD NEVER REACH
TEN GUYS AT 1000 EACH
MONEY YOUR WIFE WISHED TO SPEND ON SEARS
MONEY YOUR WIFE WISHED TO SPEND ON SEARS
BUT THANKS TO ALLAH TODAY'S CELEBRATED TEARS
HOW CAN IT NOT BE?
WHEN THE FIRST LADIES OF EVERY ATTENDEE
ROLLED UP THEIR SLEEVES
NEVER MIND THEY CALL US SOCIALESE
OPEN TO ALL, NO ONE TOO SMALL
THEY SAY IT'S SUCH COMPROMISE LEADS TO FALL
BUT ISN’T THIS THE PRIDE OF OUR FAITH, WHERE’S YOUR INSIGHT?
UNLESS YOU DON'T DIG OUR FOOD, RIGHT
SO IMO YOU HAVE LOTS MORE TO DO
FOR NOW SING AND PRAISE, LET THE WORLD KNOW
THIS IS FOR REAL NOT A SHOW
IMO, WAY TO GO!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
ensuring the law of the land is followed is totally Islamic
Dear Editor
In your recently published article in the Star on polygamy practiced in GTA the statement of certain religious leaders within the Muslim community needs to be qualified within the context of Canadian Muslims and as per se the Canadian Council of Imams. This council has actively existed and participated in the everyday politics of Canada since 1991, providing guidance for all layers of governance, while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the religious teachings of Islam, the obligation of following the law of the land and ensuring reasonable religious accommodation as constituted in our proud Charter of Rights and Freedom.
Muslims must realize that following the Canadian Law of marriage provides the very provision Islamic Law seeks i.e. protecting women, children and husband in the event of separation and of course during marriage. This Council has repeatedly made it known that it will only perform traditional ceremonies registered and approved by the Province. It has challenged any member who seeks to do otherwise and again call upon all leaders and followers to uphold the coveted laws of Canada that are especially based upon equity and belief in God.
To the surprise of many the elements of a civil marriage are the very primary factors of Nikah/Islamic marriage- consent, witnesses, dower; however in civil ceremonies the Faith of both parties remain a private affair. In having one's marriage performed in this legally licensed fashion provides the very essence of marriage- security and happiness.
Yours truly,
In your recently published article in the Star on polygamy practiced in GTA the statement of certain religious leaders within the Muslim community needs to be qualified within the context of Canadian Muslims and as per se the Canadian Council of Imams. This council has actively existed and participated in the everyday politics of Canada since 1991, providing guidance for all layers of governance, while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the religious teachings of Islam, the obligation of following the law of the land and ensuring reasonable religious accommodation as constituted in our proud Charter of Rights and Freedom.
Muslims must realize that following the Canadian Law of marriage provides the very provision Islamic Law seeks i.e. protecting women, children and husband in the event of separation and of course during marriage. This Council has repeatedly made it known that it will only perform traditional ceremonies registered and approved by the Province. It has challenged any member who seeks to do otherwise and again call upon all leaders and followers to uphold the coveted laws of Canada that are especially based upon equity and belief in God.
To the surprise of many the elements of a civil marriage are the very primary factors of Nikah/Islamic marriage- consent, witnesses, dower; however in civil ceremonies the Faith of both parties remain a private affair. In having one's marriage performed in this legally licensed fashion provides the very essence of marriage- security and happiness.
Yours truly,
Independence Day: Gratitude and Reflection
Independence Day: Gratitude and Reflection
It is with deep gratitude for the Creator I stand here to day to share my message on behalf the Muslim Community of Guyana. I am honored for this opportunity.
Independence spells freedom for many who lived in bondage and slavery- colonial or post. But Guyana could not have achieved this 42 years ago without the six races standing shoulder to shoulder, ripping those chains with only tears, blood and sweat. The Quran reminds us aptly that such diversity is humanity’s indispensable trump card.
49:13 O Humanity! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise (each other).
But what about recognizing our value as a spiritual nation? We saw the fruits of such when the ERC engaged us in a blitz on anti-racism prior to the last election.
Today let us reflect as our own Martin Carter did: All are consumed. Therefore we are each shepherds and in the words of Muhammad, each must take responsibility of his/ her flock, making Guyana not only the only English speaking country in South America but also the only peaceful, spiritual and safe State in this hemisphere.
And God Willing, Inshallah, we can.
Thank You
It is with deep gratitude for the Creator I stand here to day to share my message on behalf the Muslim Community of Guyana. I am honored for this opportunity.
Independence spells freedom for many who lived in bondage and slavery- colonial or post. But Guyana could not have achieved this 42 years ago without the six races standing shoulder to shoulder, ripping those chains with only tears, blood and sweat. The Quran reminds us aptly that such diversity is humanity’s indispensable trump card.
49:13 O Humanity! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise (each other).
But what about recognizing our value as a spiritual nation? We saw the fruits of such when the ERC engaged us in a blitz on anti-racism prior to the last election.
Today let us reflect as our own Martin Carter did: All are consumed. Therefore we are each shepherds and in the words of Muhammad, each must take responsibility of his/ her flock, making Guyana not only the only English speaking country in South America but also the only peaceful, spiritual and safe State in this hemisphere.
And God Willing, Inshallah, we can.
Thank You
Events
Canadian Council of Imams held first development seminars
Knowledge sharing and professional training are no strangers to Imams. That’s what they do. However, finding the time off to attend an Imam’s development workshop, where you are now the listener that could be a challenge.
On May 19th 2008 twenty Imams attended a half day professional training workshop hosted by the Council itself, headed by Hamid Slimi at the Bosnian Islamic Centre, downtown Toronto.
Among the presenters were lawyer Irfan Syed who dealt with Canadian Laws and common issues; Nyla Hassan spoke on the importance of communicating through appropriate self imaging; accountant Qamar Sadiq provided crucial information on taxes while Nazim Baksh explored the sorely crucial area of media interviews. The IttihaadCapital team presented on their version of investing in ethical funds in Canada.
Attendees felt this was indeed an eye-opening event and wish more workshops are planned especially in the area of social work and public speaking.
The Chair thanked everyone, and specifically the Masjid management for hosting all with a sumptuous Bosnian cuisine. More of these workshops are slated as Imams need to operate within the Canadian context and knowledge shared is never too much. The JamiatulUlama, the body of local Islamic scholars, also supported this event.
Islamic Foundation opens its doors for Toronto, again
Affording the tickets to some of Toronto’s exotic destinations could be out of reach for some. And then the phobia in entering certain sacred spaces complicates it further. Well that should no longer be, at least per year. For the last nine years this wonderful Turkish architecture at Markham and Nugget has earned a reputation of being a must stop for those venturing out on a warm Open Doors weekend.
Visitors toured the various sections of the mosques, received refreshments and literature about complex and the religion it represents. Moreso a special session in the public library accommodates the many questions Canadians may wish to settle. Educated presenters dealt alternately throughout the Saturday and Sunday with issues as simple as the meaning of the prayers to complex matters like polygamy.
This conversation has to continue among Muslims with more open doors outside Toronto Open Doors.
NAMF walkathon a small success despite the rain
Last Saturday the weather was not cooperating like most would say for this long Victoria weekend.
However, this did not deter the signed up walkers for NAMF Walkathon 2008 in aid of orphans around the world, including Guyana. The thirty odd walkers started from Scarborough Civic Centre at 10:00 am and ended up at Midland and Finch 11:30 am, doing the 6 km comfortably in the cool of the after rain morning. Many did not want to brave the weather but youths and adults alike joined to make the premiere event a success. The twenty three hundred dollars raised will go towards the orphan sponsorship program, says the Director of North American Muslim Foundation, Mr. Farouk Khan. Among the walkers was Aliya Khan, originally from Guyana and her friends of varied backgrounds. With free t-shirts, popeyes and hand bands plus happy going colleagues she says they are bound to be back next time, bigger and better. “The run was fun, compelling and inspirational”, says Aliya. “It was great to see high school students getting involved in such a great cause since we are expected to spend our Saturday mornings sleeping in! It was a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family, knowing your spreading awareness about orphan sponsorship, not only an Islamic, but World Wide crisis,” she added.
Muslims host seminar on Muslim inmates
Mothers cry. Families distressed. Imams try. Why so many youths in the prison system? And how do they receive basic spiritual care?
Mothers concerned about their sons imprisoned and unable to receive basic Muslims chaplaincy services convened at the West Mall Community Centre, Etobicoke, recently, May 1st to discuss this issue with their local MP and Muslim Leaders.
Basically the community needs to collaborate in providing preventative programs in the community, making their mosques more active. At the same time inmates desperately need qualified Muslim chaplains. The Canadian Council of Imams and the Muslim Children AID Society have committed themselves to continue this important pursuance.
Knowledge sharing and professional training are no strangers to Imams. That’s what they do. However, finding the time off to attend an Imam’s development workshop, where you are now the listener that could be a challenge.
On May 19th 2008 twenty Imams attended a half day professional training workshop hosted by the Council itself, headed by Hamid Slimi at the Bosnian Islamic Centre, downtown Toronto.
Among the presenters were lawyer Irfan Syed who dealt with Canadian Laws and common issues; Nyla Hassan spoke on the importance of communicating through appropriate self imaging; accountant Qamar Sadiq provided crucial information on taxes while Nazim Baksh explored the sorely crucial area of media interviews. The IttihaadCapital team presented on their version of investing in ethical funds in Canada.
Attendees felt this was indeed an eye-opening event and wish more workshops are planned especially in the area of social work and public speaking.
The Chair thanked everyone, and specifically the Masjid management for hosting all with a sumptuous Bosnian cuisine. More of these workshops are slated as Imams need to operate within the Canadian context and knowledge shared is never too much. The JamiatulUlama, the body of local Islamic scholars, also supported this event.
Islamic Foundation opens its doors for Toronto, again
Affording the tickets to some of Toronto’s exotic destinations could be out of reach for some. And then the phobia in entering certain sacred spaces complicates it further. Well that should no longer be, at least per year. For the last nine years this wonderful Turkish architecture at Markham and Nugget has earned a reputation of being a must stop for those venturing out on a warm Open Doors weekend.
Visitors toured the various sections of the mosques, received refreshments and literature about complex and the religion it represents. Moreso a special session in the public library accommodates the many questions Canadians may wish to settle. Educated presenters dealt alternately throughout the Saturday and Sunday with issues as simple as the meaning of the prayers to complex matters like polygamy.
This conversation has to continue among Muslims with more open doors outside Toronto Open Doors.
NAMF walkathon a small success despite the rain
Last Saturday the weather was not cooperating like most would say for this long Victoria weekend.
However, this did not deter the signed up walkers for NAMF Walkathon 2008 in aid of orphans around the world, including Guyana. The thirty odd walkers started from Scarborough Civic Centre at 10:00 am and ended up at Midland and Finch 11:30 am, doing the 6 km comfortably in the cool of the after rain morning. Many did not want to brave the weather but youths and adults alike joined to make the premiere event a success. The twenty three hundred dollars raised will go towards the orphan sponsorship program, says the Director of North American Muslim Foundation, Mr. Farouk Khan. Among the walkers was Aliya Khan, originally from Guyana and her friends of varied backgrounds. With free t-shirts, popeyes and hand bands plus happy going colleagues she says they are bound to be back next time, bigger and better. “The run was fun, compelling and inspirational”, says Aliya. “It was great to see high school students getting involved in such a great cause since we are expected to spend our Saturday mornings sleeping in! It was a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family, knowing your spreading awareness about orphan sponsorship, not only an Islamic, but World Wide crisis,” she added.
Muslims host seminar on Muslim inmates
Mothers cry. Families distressed. Imams try. Why so many youths in the prison system? And how do they receive basic spiritual care?
Mothers concerned about their sons imprisoned and unable to receive basic Muslims chaplaincy services convened at the West Mall Community Centre, Etobicoke, recently, May 1st to discuss this issue with their local MP and Muslim Leaders.
Basically the community needs to collaborate in providing preventative programs in the community, making their mosques more active. At the same time inmates desperately need qualified Muslim chaplains. The Canadian Council of Imams and the Muslim Children AID Society have committed themselves to continue this important pursuance.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)