On Saturday, 8 February 2025, the national amila of Lajna Imaillah Germany had the blessed opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, at Islamabad (Tilford), UK.
Huzooraa arrived, greeted everyone with as-salamu ‘alaykum and led the amila members in silent prayer before commencing the meeting. Addressing Sadr Sahiba Lajna Imaillah Germany, Huzooraa enquired about the attendance of amila members, to which it was reported that 26 members were present.
Huzooraa then asked whether all amila members had read the Dastur-e-Asasi and if a new plan of action had been prepared for the year. The amila confirmed that they had read the constitution and that the plan had been distributed among all members.
Following this, individual amila members were asked about their respective duties and they reported on their areas of responsibility.
General Secretary
First, Huzooraa asked about the General Secretary and was informed that she was unable to attend due to visa issues. Huzooraa then enquired about the Naib General Secretary. Sadr Sahiba reported that both the Naib and Additional Naib General Secretaries were in attendance.
Huzooraa asked about the number of local majalis under Lajna Imaillah Germany. It was reported that there were 291 majalis. Huzooraa then enquired how many majalis regularly submitted their reports, to which the secretary responded that 99% of them did.
Huzooraa then asked whether feedback was given on the reports and it was confirmed that feedback was provided through an online software system. Huzooraa further enquired about who was responsible for providing this feedback – whether it was given by all secretaries or specifically by Sadr Sahiba or the General Secretary. It was said that all secretaries could provide feedback, while the General Secretary would send a comprehensive response online at once.
Naib Sadr
Next to report was Naib Sadr, who said that she oversees the Talim Department.
Huzooraa asked about the educational programmes in place, to which she explained that initiatives had been structured at two levels – one for less educated women and another for those who were already educated. When asked about the nature of these programmes, it was stated that efforts were focused on improving Quranic pronunciation [tajwid], teaching the translation of the Holy Quran and assisting members in reading and understanding the books of the Promised Messiahas.
Huzooraa further enquired whether a syllabus had been set for the year. It was reported that Chashma-e-Ma‘rifat had been selected for mandatory reading, while Islami Usul Ki Falasafi was provided for voluntary study.
Huzooraa then asked how many Lajna members could read the Holy Quran [nazirah]. It was reported that 96% of members had this ability. Huzooraa said, “Alhamdulillah”.
Khidmat-e-Khalq Secretary
Huzooraa then turned to the Khidmat-e-Khalq Secretary, asking about the humanitarian services undertaken by Lajna Imaillah Germany. The secretary explained that at the local majalis level, Lajna members provided assistance to one another, supported external social institutions, donated food and conducted visits to help those in need.
When asked if there were any particularly notable initiatives, she mentioned that blood donation camps were organised. Huzooraa further enquired whether any larger, more established projects – such as schools or hospitals – had been initiated. She responded that Lajna Imaillah had constructed facilities in Africa, including a dispensary in Nigeria in 2020-2021.
Huzooraa referenced Lajna Imaillah UK’s maternity hospital project in Africa, which was being developed with a budget exceeding half a million pounds, but acknowledged Germany Lajna’s contributions towards the construction of mosques. “And you do build mosques, so that’s fine,” Huzooraa said.
Maal Secretary
Huzooraa then spoke with the Maal Secretary and enquired about Lajna Imaillah Germany’s current financial status and discussed some budgetary matters with her.
Muhasibah
Huzooraa then addressed the Muhasibah Maal and enquired whether she checked the financial accounts and whether they were being maintained correctly. She responded affirmatively, saying, “Yes, alhamdulillah.”
He asked whether the Muhasibah Maal faced any interference or pressure in her work, to which she affirmed that Sadr Sahiba was supportive and that she only feared Allah the Almighty. Huzooraa acknowledged her response and emphasised the importance of always fearing Allah.
Tajnid Secretary
Huzooraa then addressed the Tajnid Secretary, who introduced herself and stated her role in managing the membership records.
Huzooraa noted the discrepancy between the previously reported figure and the current figure and advised that while AIMS provides a certain number, it is essential for Lajna Imaillah to independently verify their own tajnid rather than relying solely on the system. He explained that AIMS may not always have direct contact with every member, but local Tajnid secretaries can physically visit homes and confirm details more accurately.
Huzooraa encouraged the verification process at the local majalis level, suggesting that the actual membership could be even higher.
Ishaat Secretary
Next, Huzooraa sought an update from the Ishaat Secretary, who introduced herself and explained her responsibility for overseeing publications.
Huzooraa enquired about the current focus of Ishaat, to which she responded that in recent years, they had concentrated on publishing children’s books. She explained that this initiative was in line with Huzoor’saa previous guidance, emphasising the importance of instilling fundamental morals and Islamic values in young children through age-appropriate language.
Acknowledging this, Huzooraa commended the effort but then asked about materials for adolescent girls aged thirteen to sixteen or seventeen – specifically nasirat and those going into Lajna Imaillah. He instructed that smaller pamphlets, brochures, or social media content should be prepared for them. Huzooraa further advised that Ishaat should collaborate with the Tarbiyat Department to ensure that these materials were effectively utilised for their moral and spiritual upbringing.
Huzooraa highlighted the critical age of fourteen to fifteen, at which both boys and girls begin seeking greater freedom, underscoring the need for early and structured guidance.
Tabligh Secretary
Huzooraa then turned to the Tabligh Secretary and asked about Lajna Imaillah Germany’s target for tabligh and she stated that they aimed to achieve at least one bai‘at per majlis.
Upon hearing this, Huzooraa confirmed the number of majalis as 291. It was reported that 28 bai‘ats had taken place through Lajna Imaillah’s efforts in the previous year.
Huzooraa then enquired about the plan to achieve this year’s target, to which it was explained that Lajna members were being encouraged to focus on personal contacts, with a particular emphasis on conveying the message of the Promised Messiahas.
Regarding progress so far, the Tabligh Secretary reported that majalis were actively engaging in tabligh through workshops to educate themselves in matters related to tabligh and members had also organised initiatives to expand their outreach efforts.
San‘at-o-Dastkari Secretary
Speaking with the San‘at-o-Dastkari Secretary, Huzooraa asked whether Lajna members actively produced handicrafts or if items were merely purchased from the market and sold at the Meena Bazaar. She affirmed that Lajna members did create their own handmade items.
Mu‘awinah Sadr for Wasiyyat
Next, the Mu‘awinah Sadr for Wasiyyat introduced herself.
Huzooraa asked her about the total number of members who had entered the Wasiyyat scheme. She provided the figure, after which Huzooraa advised that efforts should be made to encourage more earning members to participate, suggesting a significantly higher target. The secretary affirmed that a plan was already in place to address this.
Mu‘awinah Sadr for Rishta Nata
Huzooraa then addressed the Mu‘awinah Sadr for Rishta Nata, who introduced herself and mentioned her role in assisting with matchmaking.
Huzooraa enquired about the number of matches arranged so far, to which she responded that fifteen matches had been arranged in the past three months, with three additional matches in January.
Huzooraa then asked whether suitable matches were being found for Lajna members. She acknowledged that finding suitable boys remained a challenge, explaining that girls were generally well-educated, while boys did not pay as much attention to their academic development.
Upon hearing this, Huzooraa emphasised the role of the Tarbiyat Department, instructing that mothers should be reminded to focus on the upbringing of their sons. Huzooraa shared that a young woman from Germany had written to him, questioning why Tarbiyat efforts seemed more focused on girls while boys were often overlooked. In response, Huzooraa had advised that boys should receive priority in Tarbiyat, as their proper guidance would naturally lead to better outcomes for girls as well.
Huzooraa pointed out a cultural tendency, particularly among Asian families, where girls were subject to stricter supervision, while boys were often left unchecked. He warned that neglecting boys’ Tarbiyat could lead them astray, stressing the need for mothers to take responsibility in this regard. Huzooraa then instructed that the Tarbiyat Secretary should take note of this.
Mu‘awinah Sadr for Waqf-e-Nau
Mu‘awinah Sadr for Waqifaat-e-Nau was next to report.
Huzooraa enquired about the total number of waqifaat-e-nau in Germany, to which she reported that there were 4,846 members. Huzooraa then asked how many were above the age of fifteen and she responded that 2,436 had crossed this age threshold.
Regarding their commitment to lifelong service, Huzooraa enquired how many had submitted the bond confirming their dedication and she reported that 89% had done so.
Huzooraa then asked how many older waqifaat-e-nau were pursuing professional careers in fields such as medicine, law, teaching and engineering. She reported that within Germany’s Jamaat, eight waqifaat-e-nau had qualified as doctors, while 31 were currently studying medicine. Additionally, 45 members were training as teachers.
Mu‘awinah Sadr for 100 Mosques Project and Jaidad
Next, Huzooraa sought an update from the Mu‘awinah Sadr for the 100 Mosques Project, asking about the progress of the Hundred Mosques Project, to which she reported that 60 mosques had been completed, while 25 were currently under construction.
Huzooraa then asked how many of these mosques had been built specifically by Lajna Imaillah. She responded that under Lajna Imaillah’s “Jubilee Project,” they had set a target to build 10 mosques and by Allah’s grace, permission had been granted for seven, all of which were currently under construction.
Tarbiyat Secretary
Huzooraa then addressed the Tarbiyat Secretary, reiterating the importance of mothers focusing on their sons’ upbringing and instructing the department to remind them of this responsibility. He emphasised that mothers and amila members must set an example and ensure boys receive proper moral guidance, stressing that this area required greater attention.
Tarbiyat Nau-Mubai‘aat Secretary
Huzooraa then spoke with the Tarbiyat Nau-Mubai‘aat Secretary and asked about the Tarbiyat plan for the female converts. It was reported that efforts were made to stay connected with all of them and local majalis were also guided in supporting them. However, it was noted that not all converts were in direct contact with her – some were in direct communication with the secretary, while others were connected only through their local majalis.
Huzooraa asked whether the local majalis had their own Tarbiyat plans for the new converts. The secretary confirmed that the majalis were provided guidance on how to support the nau-mubai‘aat. When asked if a specific Tarbiyat and educational plan had been developed, he stated that new converts were integrated into existing programmes and at regional conventions, key topics such as Khilafat and Jamaat structure were explained to them.
Huzooraa then asked whether the plan was being properly implemented, to which the secretary responded that some good progress was visible, though it was an ongoing effort.
Assistant General Secretary
Huzooraa spoke with the Assistant General Secretary and the Assistant to the Assistant General Secretary. They introduced themselves and outlined their responsibilities, including overseeing the German section, IT and HR and supporting the General Secretary.
Nasirat Secretary
Next to report was the Nasirat Secretary. She stated that monthly programmes were sent to nasirat meetings in coordination with the Tarbiyat and Talim departments.
Huzooraa advised that Tarbiyat programmes should be more engaging to ensure that nasirat take genuine interest, attend and participate actively. He emphasised that guidance should not be conveyed rigidly, such as warning about punishments for missing prayers, failing to recite the Holy Quran, or not observing purdah. Instead, a loving and understanding approach should be adopted, considering the environment in which nasirat are growing up.
Huzooraa highlighted the importance of explaining fundamental aspects of faith, including:
- Why we are Ahmadis
- Why we are Muslims
- What Islam expects from us
- Why religion is necessary
- The existence of God
He stated that while mothers bear primary responsibility for their children’s upbringing, effective Tarbiyat of nasirat would ensure the strength of future generations. He advised guiding nasirat towards building a personal relationship with Allah and understanding the significance of prayer and religious knowledge.
Huzooraa noted that many nasirat, especially those aged 14 or 15, ask mature and profound questions. He suggested incorporating key points from The Introduction to the Study of the Holy Quran, published in German by the Ishaat Department, into Tarbiyat programmes.
He also advised against a top-down approach in planning, recommending collaboration with educated nasirat members aged thirteen to fifteen. He encouraged the secretary to seek their input on designing Tarbiyat programmes that are truly beneficial and practical, rather than imposing a pre-planned structure. “Work should be carried out with mutual consultation,” Huzooraa instructed.
Umur-e-Talibaat, Tahrik-e-Jadid and Waqf-e-Jadid
The secretaries for Umur-e-Talibaat, Tahrik-e-Jadid and Waqf-e-Jadid reported next. The Umur-e-Talibaat Secretary reported on the number of university students and trainees.
The Secretary for Tahrik-e-Jadid and Waqf-e-Jadid introduced herself and outlined her role in managing these financial schemes.
Sehat-e-Jismani Secretary
Speaking with the Sehat-e-Jismani Secretary, Huzooraa asked if she also participated in any sports, to which she responded that she regularly swims with her children and also encourages others to engage in sports. Huzooraa then asked whether women had separate sports facilities and she confirmed that in her area, there was an exclusive women’s swimming session on certain days.
Regarding overall participation in physical activity, she reported that approximately 30% engaged in some form of exercise.
Ziafat Secretary
The Ziafat Secretary was next to report. Huzooraa enquired about the function of the Ziafat Department, noting that kitchen operations were generally managed by men. He asked whether Lajna had its own dedicated kitchen, to which she responded that they did not.
Huzooraa informed her that recently, permission had been granted for part of a facility to be used. Sadr Sahiba confirmed this, adding that the approval had been given only a few days prior.
Huzooraa advised that efforts should be made to secure permission for the rest of the facility as well.
Mu‘awinah Sadr for Press and Media
Huzooraa then spoke with the Mu‘awinah Sadr for Press and Media. She explained that the department was currently focused primarily on social media campaigns, including initiatives under the banner “Voices for Peace”.
Huzooraa asked whether she was in contact with the Central Press and Media Department, to which she responded that she often spoke with them over the phone.
Huzooraa then enquired whether responses were being written to letters or articles in newspapers, particularly regarding topics such as Muslim women’s rights. Huzooraa instructed that a dedicated team should be formed to write articles and submit them to newspapers. He noted that while two or three women were currently writing, this effort should be expanded significantly, advising that the department should have at least a hundred women capable of writing.
Mu‘awinah Sadr for Sami-o-Basari
Last to report was the Mu‘awinah Sadr for Sami-o-Basari. She reported that over the past year, her department had trained a new team in video and audio coverage of Lajna programmes. Additionally, they had begun live broadcasting some programmes on the radio.
Question-and-answer session
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then asked if there was anything further to be discussed, to which Sadr Sahiba Lajna said that some of the members wanted to ask some questions, which Huzooraa graciously permitted.
The growing influence of right-wing parties and anti-Muslim racism in Germany
An amila member enquired about the rising influence of right-wing parties in Germany and the spread of anti-Muslim racism, seeking guidance on which Tabligh strategies should be prioritised.
Huzooraa replied:
“As I have told your press representative, publish articles […] and inform people. Firstly, why have these right-wing groups risen to prominence? They say, ‘Immigrants should not come here. This is our indigenous people’s, the Germans’ country and our right should prevail.’
“I have written about this several times, pointing out that these people protest because those of us who arrive from outside – immigrants, whether from Pakistan or other countries – often [start to] live on social benefits rather than working. They become dependent on the taxpayer’s money and this sparks complaints.
“We should advise our own people and also write [for the public] that the solution lies herein – and, if I recall correctly, I spoke on this topic and explained it at some gathering in Sweden or Denmark – that anyone who immigrates here must work, so that instead of consuming taxpayer funds and seeking help, they become taxpayers themselves. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa taught: ‘Be the one who gives with the upper hand, not the one who receives with the lower hand.’ This is what we should follow. This is the Islamic teaching.
“That is the principle we abide by and we must continue to uphold it. If we do so, there would be no talk of right-wing or left-wing – everyone would live as one nation. Furthermore, since we have come to this country, we desire to serve the nation. Our educated people stand ready to serve, so we do not claim any entitlement. Rather, we are prepared to serve humanity and the nation.
“Write such articles and publish them in newspapers in collaboration with your press and media team. Short video clips can also be posted on social media. Form a proper team for this. With regard to anti-Muslim racism, also explain Islam’s true teachings. I have spoken many times in Germany on this matter and there are various addresses of mine. Use excerpts from those, including verses from the Holy Quran and ahadith, which illustrate what Islam teaches: how Muslims are peace-loving, what teachings we hold concerning women, what Islamic legal rights are, how we view government and how we consider those who are deprived.
“Strive to spread these points as widely as you can; we have come here out of necessity, not because we were over-eager. We arrived believing there would be no racism, that people here would appreciate [human dignity], help one another on humanitarian grounds and uphold that principle. Hence, we came here. We came with the conviction that by living here, we would serve the nation and the country, so there should be no question of racism. Islam teaches us no Arab is superior to a non-Arab and no non-Arab is superior to an Arab – the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa taught precisely this. Allah the Exalted also tells us that all human beings are equal.
“Therefore, present these teachings – Islamic teachings – taken from the Holy Quran and the ahadith of the Holy Prophetsa. There are already many of my addresses and literature on this subject. If you make an effort, you will find the relevant points. […] I have given you plenty of material. You can derive a great deal from it.”
Domestic issues and the limits of patience
A member sought guidance about the extent to which one should remain patient in a marriage or family context, especially if difficulties or injustices appear to intensify and no improvement is observed.
In response, it was explained that Allah the Almighty anticipated situations where patience might be tested, which is why a provision exists for a wife to seek a formal separation if her endurance is exceeded. The matter can be presented to the administrative body [nizam-e-jamaat] and the appropriate reconciliation committees to pursue reform. If these steps do not resolve the issues, individuals are advised to pray earnestly and reflect on whether the circumstances have truly become intolerable.
They were also reminded to keep in mind the potential impact on children, such as the challenges of single parenthood or concerns regarding children who are at an age where marriage arrangements may soon be relevant. It was advised to ‘seek help with patience and Prayer’, in line with Quranic instruction of اسۡتَعِیۡنُوۡا بِالصَّبۡرِ وَالصَّلٰوۃِ [Surah al-Baqarah, Ch. 2: V.154] and to continue focusing on the Tarbiyat of children.
Furthermore, it was noted that marital conflicts can arise from either spouse, so all parties should examine their own conduct and strive toward mutual understanding.
Before any significant decision – such as ending a marriage – individuals were advised to pray consistently for forty days to seek divine guidance. While everyone’s threshold of endurance varies, the counsel was to maintain trust in God’s support. Should circumstances remain unchanged despite sincere efforts, it was observed that one could then proceed to act in accordance with the rights provided by Islamic law, which allows a woman to seek separation when necessary.
Marriage, istikharah and rishta refusals
A participant enquired about situations where marriage discussions extend over months, with prospective parties meeting and engaging, only for the proposal to be declined due to an unfavourable istikharah or various other reasons. She sought guidance on how to navigate such circumstances.
Huzooraa replied:
“Prayers must certainly be offered. In particular, the girl’s side should be given enough time – a month or forty days – to pray and then decide. It is not only the girl’s side that refuses; the boy’s side can also refuse. Both do it. But a decision should be made within forty days, after praying. Meanwhile, there should be no lengthy meetings or extended conversations and friendships. The boy and girl should remain somewhat distant. Let those forty days be purely for prayer. Once they reach a firm decision and the proposal is agreed, they should formalise it.
“However, some complaints also arise about couples who become engaged, then later say, ‘We heard rumours about the girl,’ or the bride’s family says, ‘We heard something about the boy.’ Then they claim, […] ‘We prayed again and did not feel at ease’ – so they break off after the engagement. This too happens.
“That is why you should clarify everything at the outset. You have committees for counselling, which I set up, involving Lajna as well. You should also hold some camps on such occasions where you explain to the families of the young men and women that they must pray for about thirty or forty days and then decide. If both sides say yes, they can be in contact and the nikah and wedding should proceed without unnecessary delay; otherwise, there is more scope for vices.
“Some people habitually move from one proposal to another. They get engaged, then somebody comes along – there are many who sow discord – and says, ‘Why did you settle here? […] There was a much better match available: that girl was wonderful, or that boy was excellent. You should have chosen them instead.’ And they then say, ‘No problem, we will break this off.’ They have no regard for the situation, as though it were a mere game of dolls. These are cruel people and Allah the Almighty will hold them to account. May Allah have mercy. Pray as well. That is why a decision must be made after prayer.”
Excusals during Jamaat elections
A lady enquired about the appropriate approach when someone declines to accept an office during the Lajna elections.
Huzooraa advised:
“[…] This is a lack of proper Tarbiyat and it demands attention from the Tarbiyat Department: teach people that serving the faith is an honour and a blessing from Allah. Instil that spirit in them and once it is embedded, they will no longer decline.
“As for anyone who persists in turning down Allah’s gifts, unwilling to accept them, should we force the position upon them? If they will not take it, leave them be; someone else will emerge and Allah will accomplish His work through that individual.”
Preparing children for the future
A mother enquired about how to prepare children for the future, asking which skills, beyond prayer, should be taught. In response, Huzooraa sought clarification on whether she was referring to the next life or this worldly existence. She then referenced his earlier remarks about a potential world war and its impact on people’s inclination towards faith.
Huzooraa replied:
“In that case, learn your religion yourselves and also teach it to your children. Let them know these events are expected, that they have been foretold long ago – by the Imam of the Age, the Promised Messiahas and also by the Holy Prophetsa. Allah the Almighty likewise informs us that these conditions will come. In such circumstances, we must attend to faith. If you acquire knowledge of your religion and establish a connection with Allah, then when such circumstances prevail and calamity visits the world and people are again drawn towards God – since for now we see atheism and worldly pursuits in full swing – you will have to know what message to convey to people.
“Therefore, you must study your faith and nurture your bond with Allah the Exalted. If you begin raising your children correctly from the outset, you are effectively training the next generation. They will be prepared to guide people in those challenging times and you yourselves will be prepared as well.
“Hence, strive to strengthen your relationship with Allah the Exalted and make every effort to learn your religious teachings – study and learn the commandments of the Holy Quran. By Allah’s grace, if you do so consistently and uphold these teachings firmly, you will remain steadfast and your children will do the same.”
Whom to vote for in the 2025 German federal election
Finally, a member asked about the upcoming German federal election and sought guidance on choosing whom to support.
Huzooraa said that he does not live in Germany, so local voters themselves are best placed to understand the various political options. He mentioned that some populist groups have gained prominence in part due to negative sentiments toward immigrants or certain communities, especially Muslims. Therefore, he advised members to clarify Islam’s true teachings and convey that our aim is to serve the nation and humanity at large.
Huzooraa noted that having set out this explanation, individuals should then evaluate the honesty and suitability of each candidate, regardless of party, in accordance with the Quranic principle of entrusting responsibilities to those who truly deserve them. [Surah an-Nisa’, Ch.4: V.59] He added that this same principle applies in Jamaat elections as well as in worldly elections.
If all candidates seem equally capable, he advised using personal judgement – such as existing connections or any other relevant considerations – to arrive at a final decision.
Conclusion
In the end, Huzooraa presented pen gifts to the amila members and took leave, concluding the mulaqat.
(Summary prepared by Al Hakam)