By the grace of Allah, the Fazl Mosque successfully hosted a Coffee Morning event aimed at fostering individual Tabligh efforts within the local neighbourhood. This initiative was inspired by the guidance of beloved Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba), who continues to urge members of the Jamaat to engage actively in Tabligh. Recognising that larger events often limit opportunities for personal conversations, the local Tabligh committee focused on creating a setting that would enable one-on-one interactions with guests.
Under the advice of Za’im Sahib, and based on his experience, the committee chose to invite a smaller, more manageable group. This strategy was adopted to ensure a focused and personalised approach to Tabligh. Initial promotion began with a leaflet and a post on the Nextdoor platform. However, given the low number of confirmed attendees, the team increased their efforts by going door-to-door in the local area, personally inviting neighbours to the event. This joint effort accumulated to several hours of activity.
Here was the format of the programme:
The Coffee Morning took place at Fazl Mosque, beginning with a warm welcome to our guests. Throughout the event, attendees engaged in meaningful dialogue with local members, creating a friendly and open atmosphere. Two significant questions were raised by guests:
1. Why are Muslim women suppressed in Islam and do not have any position of importance in religious leadership?
Dr Afzal Ashraf responded by explaining that Islam grants equal rights to women, highlighting the elevated status of women, particularly mothers, in the faith. He added that paradise is promised to those who serve and honour their mothers. He also encouraged guests to speak directly to his wife Lubna, to understand how Muslim women experience their faith in daily life.
2. Why are Muslims often associated with terrorism in Western countries?
Dr Ashraf firmly responded that terrorism has no place in Islam. He clarified that groups committing violence in the name of religion are acting against Islamic teachings. He quoted from the book “Murder in the name of Allah” by Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad (rh), which clearly outlines Islam’s condemnation of terrorism. He also stated that that as per Islamic teaching that that the killing of one innocent person is as if the whole of mankind has been killed.
Following this discussion, guests were taken to Mehmood Hall for a historical presentation on Fazl Mosque and its role in the spread of Islam in the UK. A Quran exhibition was also set up in the same hall. Literature was distributed, including:
• 4 copies of the Holy Quran
• 3 copies of The Life of Muhammad
• 5 copies of The Teachings of Islam
• 10 additional books chosen by the guests based on their interests
After the presentations, guests enjoyed refreshments and engaged in informal conversations with Jamaat members. The friendly discussions continued until Zuhr prayers, creating a lasting impression on attendees.
Acknowledgements
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to the success of this event, including:
• Murabi Zeriab Rehman Sahib
• Professor Afzal Ashraf
• Nazim-e-Ala Ahsan Sahib
• Zaim Fazl Mosque Naseer Sahib
• Nazim Tabligh Fazl Region Rauf Tahir Sahib
• Secretary Fazl Mosque Basharat Sahib
• Tabligh Committee Members: Nasir Rana, Ahmad Raja, Kaleem Ahmad, Rana Waseem and Rizwan Shabir. Support from Hashir Rana
Next Steps
Insha’Allah, the Tabligh committee plans to continue hosting Coffee Mornings monthly. The contact details of all attendees have been recorded, and follow-up invitations will be sent to further engage with them and build on the conversations started.
Here are pictures of the event.
Jahangir Ahmad
Nazim Tabligh
Majlis Ansarullah Fazl Mosque