SeneGambian
Muslims across Europe are getting ready for the forthcoming Ramadan as
religious leaders organise meetings and conferences to highlight the great
significance and value of fasting the holy month.
One
of such gatherings was at Ijaba Mosque and Cultural Centre, Earlham Grove,
London where three respected Gambian Imams, led by the incumbent Imam Mohammed
Sarr, recently held a conference to remind the people about the importance of
Ramadan and how best to prepare for it.
Speaking
on the occasion, Imam Sarr stressed the ultimate purpose of not only fasting in
the Ramadan but also strongly emphasised some of the vital pillars in Islam
that everyone should adhere to.
The
Imam emphasized that people must gain understanding of the religion and
teachings of Islam as well as the rules of fasting, adding that people should
frequently engage in spiritual reflection in order to be closer to Allah.
Imam
Mohamed Gassama also highlighted the vital need of not only studying the Quran
but also encouraged people to recite the holy book for better understanding of
its importance.
Imam
Gassama stressed that people should find more time to read the Quran
efficiently, and constantly seek knowledge as a way of preparing themselves for
the hereafter.
Imam
Gassama further noted that people should gain knowledge with good intention and
also should be determined and resolved. He gave an example of an 84-year-old
who decided that she would learn the Quran, saying that should be an
encouragement for everyone.
He
called for forgiveness stressing that people must not bear anger or bitterness
towards one another.
Imam
Mohamed Jaiteh, for his part, reminded the gathering on the most important
points discussed by the other speakers, while emphasing that people should
respect the five daily prayers and be reciting the Quran frequently during
Ramadan.
The
Ijaba Mosque and Cultural Centre has energetic and dedicated committee members
including Momodou Camara, Yasai Gaye, Gabou Njie and Bala Bamba whose immense
contribution is widely recognised.
It
is also important to note that the Mosque is engage in several social and
cultural activities and also offers advice on various matters.
Alieu
Jagne of Aldersbrook Road, Wanstead, currently deals with funerals. His
Organisation, The Compassionate Funerals, is widely praised for its active role
in getting in touch with families of deceased person or persons who are
interested in arranging funerals and possibly repatriating their loved ones
back home to The Gambia.
