Prayers for global Muslim peace at Muslim Ummah grand conference in U.S

Chhabed Sathee, from Philadelphia (PA): With prayers for peace for Muslims around the world, the largest organization of expatriate Muslims in the United States, the Muslim Ummah of North America (MUNA), has inaugurated its three-day 8th Annual Grand Conference. Under the slogan 'Torchbearers of Islam-Spreading the Faith Globally,' the event began on Friday afternoon (August 8) local time at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia with the observance of Jumu’ah prayers.

Thousands of devout Muslims attended the opening day on Friday—significantly more than in recent years. Organizers expect that over 20,000 devout expatriate Muslims from various countries will take part in the three-day conference, which will run until midnight on Sunday (August 10).

At the Jumu’ah session of the conference, Imam Siraj Wahhaj delivered the sermon and participated in discussions. In addition, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Bashar spoke to Bangladeshis about family life.

Maulana Bashar stated that the torchbearers of Islam will take the lead in spreading the religion globally. The main reason our families are falling apart, he said, is the failure to follow Islam. He emphasized the need to strengthen our connection with the Qur'an and described MUNA as a blessing for the community. He urged parents to teach their children religious culture. The speakers also prayed for peace for Muslims around the world.MUNA operates actively in 48 U.S. states, and this year’s convention is expected to draw 20,000–25,000 men, women, and children of all ages from across the country. According to available information, participants are coming from nearly every U.S. state.

To ensure the convention’s success, a strong, division-based organizing team has been formed, chaired by Arman Chowdhury, CPA, MUNA’s National Executive Director. The inaugural session featured speeches from prominent Islamic scholars and MUNA officials.

This annual convention is the largest gathering of Bangla-speaking expatriate Muslims in North America. Thousands of devout Muslims, traveling alone or with their families, have come to Philadelphia from distant states to take part in the three-day event.

Throughout the convention, renowned Islamic scholars will present valuable lectures. This year’s speakers include: Dr. Omar Suleiman, Imam Dalawar Hossain, Sami Hamdi, Mohamed Elshinawy, Dr. Altaf Husain, Imam Tom Facchine, Hamzah Abdul-Malik, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, Asif Hirani, and Shaykh Abdul Nasir Jangda. Additionally, the globally recognized Bangladeshi Islamic scholar Dr. Mizanur Rahman Azhari will deliver a virtual Qur’an Tafsir session.

Aimed at engaging the new generation of Muslim youth in North America, emerging Islamic thinkers and young speakers will address topics such as how to uphold Islamic identity and values in a diverse religious, social, and cultural Western environment. For children, the convention will feature competitions and entertainment programs.

Beyond Islamic learning, the event will also include seminars, special women’s sessions, children’s programs, cultural events, sports activities for kids, and youth programs.

One of the highlights will be a bazaar offering a variety of items — men’s and women’s clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, gift items, and food stalls — making it not only a spiritual but also a vibrant cultural experience.