Syed Mukarram Nazeer, Canada Correspondent
On 25 June 2023 Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada observed National Tabligh Day. Members went door-to-door to distribute “Explore Islam” flyers in remote towns across Canada.
The “Explore Islam” campaign was launched in Canada in December 2022 with the intent of visiting 1,000 towns and cities to educate and raise awareness among Canadians about the true teachings of Islam, its commonalities with other faiths, unique features, and how it leads to a life of peace, serenity, and fulfilment. The day began with members gathering in their local mosques or salat centres for Tahajjud prayer. Many pleasant conversations regarding the peaceful teachings of Islam took place, and, in some towns, people acknowledged that they had heard of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Some people asked to be given extra flyers so that they could share them with friends and family as well.
Some comments are given below:
While distributing flyers, Ibrahim Ahmed Sahib from Waterloo handed a flyer to a lady. After reading the flyer, she commented that she had prayed to God the day before that He should send someone who could explain to her the true path. She was invited to Jalsa Salana Canada. She is a foster parent with a son from Haiti. She is attracted to the belief in the Oneness of God and desires such a belief for all people. She expressed her appreciation for the Jamaat’s inclusivity and diversity. She was emotional throughout the conversation.
Mohammed Abdullah Sahib from Vaughan South met with John Blackman, Lead Pastor of Renaissance Baptist Church in Brooklin, Ontario. Pastor Blackman was presented with some Jamaat literature and invited to the upcoming Jalsa Salana Canada. He showed great interest in interfaith dialogue and in organising an interfaith event at his church.
Waheed Anwer Sahib from Calgary met a person in Beiseker, who asked for a copy of the English translation of the Holy Quran and was very happy to see the Jamaat campaign. He said he had been looking for the Holy Quran everywhere but was unsure of which translation to read. His address was noted down, and a promise was made that he would be provided with an English translation of the Holy Quran.
On this day, 2,700 Jamaat members across Canada, participated in travelling to 132 different towns and distributing over 81,400 flyers.