Originally published in The Northwestern
I am the new Imam for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s Mosque located on N. Eagle Street in Oshkosh. I have been appointed here by the Khalifa of Islam, His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad, in order to serve this beautiful city and its people, to build relationships and to be a trustworthy source about Islam.
Service to humanity is a hallmark of our community.
For example, to honor the victims of 9/11 and other senseless acts of violence – and to emphasize Islam’s teachings regarding the sanctity of life – we have been organizing blood drives across the nation since 2011 under the title of “Muslims for Life.” In the last three years, 906 blood drives were held in more than 168 cities, resulting in 33,350 pints of blood collected to potentially save 100,000 American lives.
I would like to also partner with you to feed the hungry, serve the poor, and find humanitarian projects to help this community. The Holy month of Ramadan began Sunday, when Muslims worldwide will be fasting from dawn till sunset for the month. We do this to inculcate love and care for the poor and needy, who often have either nothing to eat or very minimal to survive.
I would like to reach out to the greater Winnebago County residents to let you know we are here to serve anyone. We believe one cannot reach God without first serving His creation. I hope to have the chance to serve you.
Imam Faran Rabbani
Ahmadiyya Muslim community under the divine leadership of the Khalifa of Islam, His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad is serving humanity in more than 180 countries. Love for All, Hatred for None is the core message of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community around the world.
I am honored to have Imam Faran Rabbani in Oshkosh area and welcome him to the midwest region.
Regards,
Mohammad Azhar Ahmad.
President Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association.
Chicago Northwest Chapter.