The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community held its 23rd annual All-Ireland Convention, known as the Jalsa Salana at the Clayton Hotel in Galway. The gathering brought together Ahmadi Muslims from across Ireland to strengthen their faith and foster a deeper sense of community.
The gathering opened with a flag-hoisting ceremony led by Dr Muhammad Anwar Malik, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association Ireland, and Imam Ibrahim Michael Noonan of Maryam Mosque, Galway. The community’s flag was raised alongside the Irish Tricolour and the provincial flags.
Over two days, attendees listened to a series of inspiring addresses which highlighted the importance of holding firmly to one’s faith in an increasingly secular world, and reflected on the timeless wisdom of the Holy Qur’an. A number of workshops were also held, offering healthcare professionals and researchers an opportunity to share their expertise and experiences with the community.
Educational awards and scholarships were presented to students and members of the community who had excelled in their studies and professional fields.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Alan Cheevers (Deputy Mayor of Galway ), Paula Hillman (Assistant Commissioner for An Garda Síochána ), and Éamon Ó Cuív (former TD ). Video messages of support were also shared by Emer Higgins TD, Mairéad Farrell TD, Shayne Moynihan TD and Jack Chambers TD.
Deputy Mayor, Alan Cheevers commended the community’s motto, stating,
“Your motto, ‘love for all, hatred for none’ is not only noble, it is necessary in today’s world.”
Éamon Ó Cuív, a long-time friend of the community remarked,
“Any time I’m at one of your events, I get a renewed strength that you never give up in peace or reconciliation, and that good will win out in the end.”
About the community’s commitment to interfaith and community cohesion, Emer Higgins TD said,
“I think your message that faith should unite us and not divide us has never been more important for us in Ireland.”
The convention concluded with an address and silent prayers led by Dr Malik. In recent years, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Ireland has raised over €100,000 for local charities. The community recently launched its new Irish-language translation of ‘World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace’, reflecting its mission to promote peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding.
