Islamabad, Tilford, UK, 15 December 2024: The national amila of Lajna Imaillah UK was blessed with an in-person mulaqat with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, at Islamabad, UK. Upon arrival, Huzooraa greeted the members and addressed Sadr Lajna Imaillah UK, Dr Qurratul-Ain Anni Rehman Sahiba, enquiring about the attendees. Sadr Sahiba introduced the group, following which Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa led everyone in silent prayer. Huzooraa then began speaking with each member individually, asking about their respective portfolios, responsibilities, and progress, while imparting valuable guidance and advice.
Departmental guidance
Speaking to the Secretary Talim, Huzooraa enquired about the educational programme for the year. The secretary explained that a talim syllabus had been prepared, alongside a syllabus for advanced studies for members wishing to deepen their religious knowledge. She also mentioned that special talim/tarbiyat classes were being held in six regions, starting with Scotland in January.
Turning to Secretary Tajnid, Huzooraa asked for the current membership figures and whether they were collected with precision, working from the grassroots to ensure accuracy. The secretary affirmed that the data was complete.
Addressing the Secretary Tahrik-e-Jadid & Waqf-e-Jadid, Huzooraa asked about their collection figures and whether the department was on track to meet its targets. The secretary said that they were hoping so and requested Huzooraa for prayers.
When speaking with the Secretary of Health and Fitness, Huzooraa asked whether any exercise clubs had been established. The secretary replied that while there was no formal club, the department monitored members’ exercise levels in other ways.
To the Secretary of Industry & Handicraft, Huzooraa suggested introducing a cottage industry initiative to provide practical opportunities for members who are idle at home. The secretary mentioned that the department had launched a project called “From Lajna, With Love,” where members create items for hospitals and other causes. She further shared that they organise events and workshops, which have benefitted many members. As a result, several members have successfully started their own businesses.
During his conversation with the General Secretary, Huzooraa enquired about the number of majalis, the regularity of their reports, and the feedback system. The secretary explained that all majalis send reports, which receive feedback from Sadr Sahiba and respective departments using a marking and grading system.
Speaking with the Secretary Khidmat-e-Khalq, Huzooraa asked about ongoing projects. The secretary highlighted their work supporting the homeless and preparing 23,000 meals last year. Huzooraa asked whether there were permanent collaborations with charities, to which she replied that such partnerships existed only in some localities.
Addressing Secretary Tarbiyat Nau-Mubai‘aat, Huzooraa asked about the number of nau-mubai‘aat this year. The secretary reported 64 new converts, the majority of whom attend their local classes as well as online classes organised by Jamaat’s Nau-Ahmadi Department. Huzooraa emphasised the importance of taking regular feedback from attendees and ensuring that the teachers conducting these classes are regularly reviewed to ensure they are reliable and trustworthy.
Huzooraa then asked Secretary Tarbiyat about collaboration with the Nau-Mubai‘aat Department. The secretary committed to enhancing cooperation in the future. She also outlined their thematic focus for the year, including truthfulness, the first five conditions of bai‘at, and taqwa, inspired by Huzoor’saa address at the Jalsa Salana Ghana. She added that they are also working on a tarbiyat-related Shura recommendation focused on achieving the highest levels of morals, particularly controlling anger in view of the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa and the practice of the Promised Messiahas. She also sought prayers for the department’s upcoming Tarbiyat Retreat at Baitul Futuh Mosque, where students from Aisha Academy would lead sessions.
Turning to Secretary Tabligh, Huzooraa enquired about the department’s plans. The secretary shared that under Huzoor’saa prior guidance, they were working with schools through Ahmadi female teachers and had launched a website, “Understanding Islam,” providing resources for schools. She reported that 25 of the year’s female converts were brought into the Jamaat through Lajna efforts. She also highlighted their bai‘at target for the year: one bai‘at per member. Huzooraa commented on the ambitious nature of this goal and asked how many had succeeded in achieving it. The secretary responded that they were actively working towards it.
Speaking with Secretary Nasirat, Huzooraa asked about the nasirat’s attendance and how the department encourages participation from those less active. The secretary mentioned various initiatives, including sports tournaments. With regard to those not attending, Huzooraa directed Secretary Tarbiyat to collaborate with the Nasirat Department to address this issue effectively.
To the Secretary of Finance, Huzooraa remarked, “Lajna is sacrificing a lot.”
To Secretary Wasaya, Huzooraa emphasised the importance of independently collecting data instead of relying too heavily on figures provided by men’s departments. He encouraged efforts to bring at least half of the earning Lajna members into the scheme of Al-Wasiyyat.
Addressing the Muavina Sadr for Press & Media, Huzooraa advised that the content produced should also benefit members internally, in addition to its external audience.
Finally, when speaking to the Muavina Sadr for Waqifaat-e-Nau, Huzooraa enquired about their plans. The secretary outlined four focal points: increasing attendance of 15+ waqifaat, weekly Urdu classes, constitution training, and preparing a Q&A book. Huzooraa advised:
“First ensure that waqifaat-e-nau are regular in offering the five daily prayers, reading the Holy Quran, and learning its translation. Then prescribe one of the Promised Messiah’sas books for them to read.”
When asked for a recommendation, Huzooraa suggested using topical extracts from the Essence of Islam series as reading material.
Questions from the amila members
After the introductions and individual discussions, Sadr Sahiba sought Huzoor’saa permission to ask questions on behalf of the members, which Huzooraa graciously granted.
Serving humanity
One member sought advice on what the Department of Khidmat-e-Khalq should focus on, given the current global challenges and hostile circumstances.
In response, Huzooraa suggested that the department engage in fundraising and consider keeping a reserve of essential food items as a precautionary measure. He highlighted the dire situations in places like Syria and Palestine and encouraged sending aid through Humanity First to these regions, as well as to Africa.
When asked if the department operated any local kitchens, the secretary explained that while they did not run any directly, Lajna members collaborated with local charities, either preparing meals or donating food items. Huzooraa advised them to also explore working with Humanity First or Ansarullah if those organisations had such ongoing projects.
On hearing that the department had been supporting the people of Gaza, Huzooraa appreciated the efforts and remarked that they should continue working within their available resources.
Modesty is part of faith
Another amila member sought Huzoor’saa guidance regarding the motto “Modesty is part of faith” given to Lajna in 2021 and asked whether a new motto should be introduced annually. In response, Huzooraa emphasised:
“Have you achieved this motto 100%?”
When the member acknowledged that it had not yet been fully realised, Huzooraa advised:
“Unless and until you achieve this target, you should continue with this: الْحَيَاءُ مِنَ الْإِيمَانِ [‘Modesty is part of faith’ (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-iman, Hadith 36a)]. As exposure increases and the world continues to progress, with new programmes emerging and various innovations appearing both in worldly matters and in religious spheres, you will have to be very careful.”
Financial contributions
A question was asked about Lajna members who actively contribute financially to schemes such as Waqf-e-Jadid and Tahrike-e-Jadid but do not make formal written pledges at the start of the year.
Huzooraa noted that Lajna members already contribute one-third of the total Jamaat contributions to these schemes and remarked that this was sufficient. He advised against imposing additional burdens on them, emphasising that contributions should align with each person’s capacity and resources. He also pointed out that while some people might not make formal pledges, as long as they were making substantial contributions, it was acceptable. “Every member should participate in these schemes. But those who are already participating should not be forced to give more,” Huzooraa said. Regarding Waqf-e-Jadid, Huzooraa underscored the importance of increasing participation among nasirat and instructed:
“Now that the Waqf-e-Jadid year is [coming to an end], you should give more emphasis to the nasirat. Your target should be that 100% of the nasirat participate in the Waqf-e-Jadid scheme.”
AMWSA
Finally, an amila member asked about mature students rejoining studies and whether there should be an upper age limit for AMWSA (Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Student Association).
Huzooraa responded by enquiring about the number of such cases, noting that he could provide further advice if specific figures were presented. He also clarified:
“There is no age limit for AMWSA. If they are regular students, and they have been elected by the students, you should not have any objection to it.”
Publication of books and promoting reading culture
As the mulaqat drew to a close, Huzooraa observed a display stand showcasing literature prepared by the Ishaat Department of Lajna Imaillah. Huzooraa asked Sadr Sahiba about the department’s recent achievements and whether a regular magazine is published. Sadr Sahiba mentioned that last year, two editions of An-Nusrat and one majallah were published. Additionally, several books for nasirat and a couple of books for Lajna members were published, with work underway on 22 new books, most of which are for nasirat, and three specifically for Lajna members.
Huzooraa provided guidance on advancing the department’s work. He advised that Lajna members should also read press releases regularly and that extracts from the writings of the Promised Messiahas should be posted on Lajna’s media platforms to benefit members. Huzooraa further emphasised that it is crucial to encourage all Lajna members, particularly those who may seem indifferent, to actively engage with the literature. He noted that this responsibility also rests with Secretary Tarbiyat, who should work to instil a mindset of regular reading among members.
Conclusion
At the end, Sadr Sahiba thanked Huzooraa and requested prayers for their ability to serve the Jamaat in the best possible manner. Before departing, Huzooraa distributed pens among the members. Huzooraa then enquired from the Ziafat Secretary about the refreshments prepared for the attendees. She informed him that, together with Sadr Sahiba, she had prepared dessert for the members. Acknowledging this, Huzooraa took leave, bringing the mulaqat to a conclusion.
(Report prepared by Al Hakam)