Karlsruhe, 7 July: After the concluding session of Jalsa Salana Germany and prior to his departure for Baitus-Subuh, Frankfurt, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V^aa granted an audience to some new converts.

Most of the new converts in attendance were those who had accepted Ahmadiyyat today during the Bai‘at in the Jalsa Gah at Karlsruhe.

The first part of this audience was dedicated to ladies who had just converted to Ahmadiyyat, while the latter was attended by men.

A Ghanaian gentleman caught Huzoor’s^aa attention, whom Huzoor^aa asked where in Ghana he was from, when he had come to Germany and whether he was settled or not.

Then a gentleman from Guinea Conakry introduced himself to Huzoor^aa and requested prayers.

As the microphone got passed on, a young boy’s turn came, whose passion, emotions and very visible love for Huzoor^aa gripped everyone. This Arab boy, a student of year 10, asked permission to relate his dream. After being given permission, he informed Huzoor^aa that he would often pray that Allah showed him the right path because his father and brother had accepted Ahmadiyyat but his mother had not. He had once attended Jalsa previously with his father, but felt no connection, so he continued to pray until he was shown in a dream that during a mulaqat between many Arabs and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V^aa, everyone was weeping, and the scene was such that it moved him.

After seeing this dream, he said that he was satisfied with regard to the truthfulness of this Jamaat and had thus accepted Ahmadiyyat in Islam. Huzoor^aa very lovingly listened to his account and prayed that Allah blessed him.

An Arab from Norway introduced himself and invited Huzoor^aa to visit his country of residence.

Another Arab, this time from Germany, was extremely happy to have seen Huzoor^aa for the first time. He related a dream that he had seen in which Huzoor^aa was holding a class with children and Huzoor^aa called him over and told him to sit by his side.

Upon hearing of this dream, Huzoor^aa said, “May Allah make this love long-lasting.”

This prompted another gentleman to relate his dream in which he had seen that Huzoor^aa called him close and showed great love and affection. The gentleman informed Huzoor^aa that having accepted Ahmadiyyat, all his troubles and worries had vanished. Huzoor^aa replied, “Alhamdolillah!”

A German new convert mentioned to Huzoor^aa that he was not brought up in a Muslim household, hence he had felt no inclination towards spirituality. He asked how he could progress further in spirituality. Huzoor^aa answered by saying that he should offer the five daily prayers regularly, memorise Surah al-Fatihah and ponder over its meaning.

An Estonian gentleman said to Huzoor^aa that his wife had accepted Ahmadiyyat four years earlier, whereas he was accepting Ahmadiyyat today. He expressed his thanks for the immense support that the Jamaat had extended to his wife after she had accepted Ahmadiyyat. It was after her conversion that they were blessed with their first child and he said that he was delighted with the fact that this day, he shared the same faith as his wife.

A Syrian gentleman informed Huzoor^aa that having accepted the Jamaat of the Promised Messiah^as, he had witnessed many blessings of Allah the Almighty and that his family had left Syria and reached Germany safely.

A gentleman of Turkish origin said that when he initially was inclined towards Ahmadiyyat, his parents opposed his trend a great deal. However, he told Huzoor^aa, he had now converted and pledged to live as an Ahmadi until his dying breath. Huzoor^aa enquired what it was that had convinced him, to which he responded by saying that his brothers had asked him to make a firm decision as to whether he wanted to continue his life as an Alawite or convert to Ahmadiyyat. He opted for the latter and declared to Huzoor^aa that he was satisfied with this decision. Huzoor^aa then asked whether he would endure any possible opposition in the future, to which he replied, “I will indeed. I should have accepted a long time ago.”

After this, the tenth-grade teenager expressed eagerness to talk to Huzoor^aa again. He requested Huzoor^aa to pray for all those who had done tabligh to him and made his decision to join his father in Ahmadiyyat easier.

Shortly after this, the mulaqat came to a close and everyone had the chance to have photographs taken with Huzoor^aa.

After the mulaqat, Huzoor^aa departed for Frankfurt, where he led the Maghrib and Isha prayers.

Karlsruhe, 6 July: Among the countless people meeting Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa on a daily basis during Jalsa Salana, many delegations travel from distant countries to attend this annual convention.

Among the groups who met Huzoor^aa prior to Maghrib and Isha prayers this evening was a delegation of European Georgia party, an opposition party of the Georgian government. Among the advice that Huzoor^aa gave to the party was to try and remain in the EU as this would help strengthen their economy. Huzoor^aa, upon being told that Georgia is a peaceful country, advised them to promote their tourism industry. But at the same time, Huzoor^aa expressed his desire that tabligh of the Jamaat in Georgia is accommodated as it should be in a peaceful country.

The next group to have an audience with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih^aa was from the Arab world. As soon as Huzoor^aa saw them, Huzoor^aa asked, “What do you have to say?” All members unanimously said out aloud, “Alhamdolillah!”

Huzoor^aa then said, “Do you want to ask for prayers? I pray that Allah have mercy on you!”

A member of the delegation thanked Huzoor^aa for the provision of MTA 3 Al Arabiyya. He said that it had come as a saviour as there is no better guide than Ahmadiyyat to salvation. Huzoor^aa asked the member whether he watched MTA 3 Al Arabiyya regularly, to which multiple people replied that they were regular and keen viewers.

A gentleman told Huzoor^aa that life before Ahmadiyyat meant nothing more than earning money. The quality of his Salat, he said, was not up to the mark and he would just rush through it without understanding it. Ahmadiyyat had made a whole lot of difference in giving him an understanding of his connection with Allah.

A girl was fortunate to recite a few lines from a Qaseeda written by the Promised Messiah^as. Huzoor^aa listened to this young girl’s recitation with great affection.

A youth told Huzoor^aa that he had once supposedly heard him say that one who does not go to the mosque for congregational prayer was a hypocrite. Huzoor^aa replied that he would not declare anyone a munafiq. But the importance of congregational Salat could not be denied.

Huzoor^aa said that even if one cannot attend the mosque, they should at least strive to offer it on time and in a befitting manner. A congregation does not necessarily have to be in a mosque. If there is no mosque nearby, Ahmadis can gather in one house and say it in congregation. Even members of a household can have congregational Salat.

A gentleman told Huzoor^aa that he had seen in dream that he was embracing Huzoor^aa. Huzoor^aa replied that he could do so later in a private mulaqat. He then added that if time permitted, he would allow him to do so.

A woman became very emotional as she told Huzoor^aa that she had only just accepted Ahmadiyyat about three months earlier. None of her family was aware of this and she was still not confident enough to bring it to their knowledge. Huzoor^aa advised that she should take her time and not hasten in anyway. When circumstances become favourable, she should look into informing them.

While spiritual blessings were being showered upon the audience, some of the delegates took the opportunity to seek advice on health issues from Huzoor^aa. For example, a gentleman asked about a certain health issue. Huzoor^aa graciously advised that he should increase physical activity and drink more water, especially in the mornings.

A little girl asked Huzoor^aa if she could show Huzoor^aa her painting. Huzoor^aa very keenly enquired what it was and graciously granted her permission to bring it over to him. Huzoor^aa saw the painting and appreciated her effort, advising her that humans should not be drawn as it comes out distorted, however, there was no harm in other still life drawings.

A gentleman made a reference to today’s speech where Huzoor^aa had mentioned that the world was on the verge of a global war. Huzoor^aa replied that the purpose of the advent of the Promised Messiah^as was to unite the world on din-e-wahid – one faith. Those who do not pay heed, whether they are Muslims or otherwise, will see that the result will be neither pleasant nor desired.

The Promised Messiah^as said:

آگ ہے پر آگ سے وہ سب بچائے جائیں گے

جو کہ رکھتے ہیں خدائے ذوالعجائب سے پیار

It is every Ahmadi’s responsibility to spread this message and obey the one sent by Allah; the servant of the Holy Prophet Muhammad^sa, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad^as.

As Huzoor^aa left the gathering, Huzoor^aa turned to the gentleman who requested to embrace Huzoor^aa and Huzoor^aa lovingly embraced him.

Karlsruhe, 6 July: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V^aa delivered his second address today at a special session with non-Ahmadi guests attending Jalsa Salana Germany. 

Before the opening session commenced, Urino Jose Botelho, representative of Sao Tome, presented Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa with a key to a new hospital on behalf of the President, Manuel Pinto da Costa. Mr Botelho thanked Huzoor^aa for the hard work carried out by Humanity First in Sao Tome whilst also inviting him to Sao Tome for the opening of the new hospital.

The recitation of the Holy Quran from Surah Ha Mim al-Sajdah, verses 34-36, initiated the formal session. Thereafter, Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa addressed the assembly. 

After tashahud and ta’awauz, Huzoor^aa thanked the guests for attending the Jalsa after which he explained its purpose: the spiritual, moral and religious development of attendees.  

The prophecy of the Holy Prophet^sa was mentioned concerning the advent of the Messiah. Huzoor^aa explained the practice of God Almighty Who had always sent spiritual entities to revive religious communities. In the same light, the Promised Messiah^as was sent by Allah as a reformer who revived and rejuvenated the true teachings of Islam whilst also bringing mankind back to its Creator.

After the brief introduction to the Jamaat, the current situation of the world was discussed. Humanity desires harmony, security and peace – world peace being the desire of every single person. However, the truth is that division and conflict have spread to all corners of the world; for example, currently, civil wars are rife. Tensions within states are present, immigration has caused a rift within countries and the world is now at a breaking point. 

At an international level, nation states are fighting one another and unjust wars are taking place. Economic and trade wars have started to assert dominance. Huzoor^aa said “The world is being plagued by the blood-soaked stain of conventional warfare.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa stressed the sad reality of the world ruining the future prospect for our children. The unimaginable threat of a war is at its brink. Huzoor^aa highlighted that powerful nations are asserting their influence in an unjust manner, trying to achieve their own aims.

Terrorist organisations and their political ideals were talked about whilst the dangers of the rise of the far-Right was also discussed. Mentioning “intolerant bigots”, Huzoor^aa said that they are disuniting society and causing disruption. It is therefore evident that though humanity has an innate desire for peace, the reality is quite the opposite.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih^aa said that he had been raising the voice against the situation of the world for a long time and now, other people were also raising such a voice. 

Huzoor^aa mentioned a French ambassador to the United Nations Security Council who expressed his dismay at the condition of the world and the failure of the UN in various matters, saying “We are now in a new world disorder.”

Huzoor^aa indicated that powerful nations aim to establish a new world order, however even high ranking diplomats admit the reality is far from it; instead, we have a new world disorder. 

The same mistake that took place in Syria cannot express itself with Iran again. 

Reiterating the words of a professor who was a senior economist at the White House during the Clinton administration, it was voiced that a war between the US and China would be worse than the infamous Russo-US Cold War.

Huzoor^aa said, “My greatest fear lies in the potential of a nuclear war breaking out.” A war between the US and Iran would have an effect on the whole world, including Germany and other European nations. Therefore, Germany and other European nations must take practical steps to stop such a war.

Professor Taylor, an economist and academic, mentioned that the youth are not worried by the threat of a nuclear war, rather, climate change is seen as the greatest danger, something which worried him. 

According to a recent survey, Germans are most worried about climate change. However, this is not the greatest risk; nuclear war is a far greater risk. Referring to various academics, it was highlighted that the nuclear threat the world is experiencing currently is the greatest danger.

Economic issues naturally came under discussion. The current economic structure based on a capitalist system has been widely accepted as weak and frail. Huzoor^aa said that economic fairness should underpin the world financial system. 

The potentially devastating effect of Brexit on Germany was also mentioned. 

Huzoor^aa presented a recent study in support of the economic benefits of immigration. To blame immigrants for all the problems of a country is greatly unjust when actually all nations are interdependent. 

Huzoor^aa said that “instead of creating barriers and isolating ourselves” we should “work together for common good”; governments should strive for this. At the same time, it is the responsibility of immigrants to integrate.

With all of these points in mind, it can be deduced that the blame for the lack of peace in the world cannot be put upon Islam, rather there are geopolitical issues underlying these problems.

There is only one path that can lead us to salvation and deliver us from war and conflict – that is the path of God. Huzoor^aa said, “Peace does not lie in power or wealth, rather peace lies in the cradle of God Almighty.”

Allah’s mercy has always been expressed when the world has been on the brink of destruction through a reformer; for this era, it is the Promised Messiah^as. This Messiah^as told the world that Islam is a religion of peace and brotherhood, whilst also exhorting Muslims that they must fulfil the rights of God’s creation.

Echoing the Promised Messiah^as, Huzoor^aa said to seek refuge under the shade of God Almighty to be safe from wars and conflict.

Drawing on the saying of the Promised Messiah^as, Huzoor^aa said that if mankind did not recognise its Creator, then no nation would be safe.

At the end, Huzoor^aa prayed that we set a positive example for those who follow us so that our coming generations live in peace. Huzoor^aa prayed for the dark clouds of war and enmity to give way and be replaced by eternal blue skies of peace and prosperity in all parts of the world.

Huzoor^aa thanked the guests for taking the time out to attend the event. 

Karlsruhe, 6 July: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V^aa presided over the session at the ladies Jalsa Gah at 11:00 GMT, delivering an insightful address on the responsibilities of Ahmadi men and women in light of the Holy Quran. 

The programme was initiated with the recitation of the Holy Quran – verses 12-15 of Surah al-Hujurat – with Urdu translation. A poem written by the Promised Messiah^as was then recited, following which Huzoor^aa handed out awards to exemplarily academic achievers.

After tashahud, ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Huzoor^aa recited verses from Surah al-Nahl that highlighted the equal reward for both women and men if they carry out good deeds. 

Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa explained that the Holy Quran sets out separate responsibilities for men and women. One example is the offering of Salat in congregation that is compulsory upon men and not for women. Accordingly, Huzoor^aa explained that if women were to offer their prayers at home whilst also taking care of their home, then according to the Holy Prophet^sa , they will attain the same blessing and reward as a man who offers his Salat in the mosque. Huzoor^aa said that Islam has stressed that each person, man and woman, will be granted reward according to their own intentions and responsibilities.

Huzoor^aa explained that Islam wants men and women to carry out deeds for the pleasure of Allah. He spoke of those who raise allegations against Islam saying that it does not deliver equal rights to women as compared to men. This verse of the Holy Quran presents the answer and nullifies their objection. Those who ponder over whether or not Islam grants women rights are not aware of the beautiful teachings of Islam. 

Huzoor^aa exhorted that every woman and man in the Jamaat should remember that we must adopt the teachings of Islam whilst not being affected by those who are away from religion; we must prove that Ahmadis follow the truth. We must act upon the commandments of Allah; if we do this, then we will gain the pleasure of Allah. 

Speaking of various events, Huzoor^aa stressed that no matter how many tarbiyati classes, Jalsas or events take place, they are useless unless good aspects are adopted forever within our lives; temporary actions are not enough. Huzoor^aa reminded the congregation that our knowledge and insight is void unless we act upon the instructions of Allah the Almighty.

Discussing the passage of the Holy Quran that states “And give glad tidings to the believers”, Huzoor^aa said that both men and women are addressed and the first trait mentioned by Allah after this is that “they seek forgiveness”. Regarding seeking forgiveness, Huzoor^aa presented a saying of the Promised Messiah^as in which he said that true forgiveness is such that if one is even thrown into a fire, they will not commit sin. 

Istighfar [seeking forgiveness] is essential to protect oneself from modern day ills that are encompassing society today. During the address, it was explained that people are so engrossed in the world today that their hearts have become perverse and rust has developed whilst the light of religion has been lost. If one desires to be protected from this, then believers must continuously occupy themselves in istighfar and make a special effort; this cannot happen without the grace of Allah.

Huzoor^aa explained that after speaking of seeking forgiveness, Allah points towards the need for worship; the most important being Salat.

Women must pay special attention in establishing the habit of offering Salat within their children. Huzoor^aa said that fathers also have a strong effect upon their children, especially boys, therefore fathers also have a responsibility. 

Mothers who themselves offer prayers and exert effort in the righteous upbringing of their children will gain the blessings of Allah. Huzoor^aa said that some children, due to the example of their fathers, are ruined. However, it is observed that through the tarbiyat and prayers of mothers, they revert back. Thus mothers have a huge responsibility for the righteous upbringing of their daughters. 

The next trait of believers Huzoor^aa mentioned was that “they praise Allah”. Huzoor^aa  said that when one is able to exercise true praise, they realise that all praise belongs to Allah. Some young girls start thinking that even though they prayed, worked hard and praised Allah, they did not achieve what they wanted; they then begin to divert away from Allah. Huzoor^aa said that if we look towards the Hereafter and realise that this life is temporary, then we will always praise Allah and never give up. No matter what the condition, a true believer praises Allah.

Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa reminded the audience that one should always keep in mind that every blessing is due to Allah and is not the result of some personal quality. Steadfastness and patience is essential for a believer; Allah always blesses such a believer, he reminded. 

Referring to the Holy Quran, Huzoor^aa  said that another quality of a believer is that they travel for the sake of Allah. Pointing towards the migration of Ahmadis towards Western countries, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih^aa reminded listeners that they had travelled for the sake of Allah and this requires us to walk in accordance with the commandments of Allah.

If women self-reflect, they will realise that all the material wealth they possess is a reward from Allah because they travelled from Pakistan to these countries for His sake. Talking about the education of women in particular, Huzoor^aa highlighted that it would not have been possible to be educated to this level if they were still in Pakistan. Therefore, due to these blessings, Ahmadis should always be attached to Allah and not be influenced by the so-called freedom of the West. 

Referring to the kindness of Western governments, Huzoor^aa said that even though the influx of Ahmadis is a burden upon the government, however they still keep Ahmadis here due to the good actions of Ahmadis; this is another blessings of Allah. 

Talking about taking social welfare, Huzoor^aa advised Ahmadis to find work and not become a burden upon the government – one should give rather than take.

If we want the grace of Allah in this world and the next, then within ourselves and our children we must ensure that we have immigrated for the sake of Allah and we should never be unfaithful to Him. 

Referring to the Holy Quran again, Huzoor^aa spoke of the trait of worship within a true believer. True and effective prostrations are those that draw one to a close relation with Allah. 

Believers are also those who exhort towards good and shun bad. If Ahmadi women and men act upon this teaching of the Holy Quran, then we will develop a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Huzoor^aa strongly expressed that if men do not act righteously and present a good example, then they will be at error. And if good examples are presented within parents, then children will be protected from the ills of Western society; this is the responsibility of both parents. 

If every household purposefully takes action to save themselves from the ills of society, it is only then that we can be protected. Huzoor^aa said that society is trying to destroy religion with full force; this can be counteracted only if mothers and fathers acquaint themselves with knowledge and teach their children. Shyness cannot be adopted with current day issues and children should be told of the ills of society and its Islamic solution. 

Huzoor^aa said that despite this, Ahmadis should be active members of society and serve society to the best of their ability. The rights of mankind must be fulfilled.

An Ahmadi mother’s responsibility is that they inculcate the teachings of Islam within their children and pray for them. This responsibility is upon men as well. 

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V^aa  reminded the audience towards the Bai’at we have taken of the Promised Messiah^as, and thus we should act in accordance with his teachings. 

Reading out an extract of the Promised Messiah^as, Huzoor^aa reminded Ahmadis not to be wholly engrossed in the world alone, rather one should aim to establish the true essence of Islam within themselves; praying before Allah, seeking His grace and guidance. 

Underlining the teachings of the Promised Messiah^as, Huzoor^aa said that one must try to gain the grace of Allah and seek His power and protection.

Huzoor^aa concluded the address by praying that we are all able follow the teachings of Allah, His Prophet^sa and the Promised Messiah^as. He prayed that may we stay protected from the ills of the world and fulfill our pledge of allegiance to the Promised Messiah^as.

Various poems in many languages were recited before Huzoor^aa by lajna from various nationalities, after which Huzoor^aa proceeded for the Zuhr and Asr prayer.

Karlsruhe, 5 July: Three foreign delegations today got the opportunity to have audience with Huzoor^aa. The first delegation to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih^aa was from Senegal; government officials were accompanied by the missionary of Senegal and their local mualims. 

One of the government officials who supervises hospitals in a region of Senegal expressed his gratitude to Huzoor^aa for the Jamaat’s contribution in providing healthcare facilities in their country.

The two government officials expressed that they were overawed to listen to Huzoor’s Friday Sermon and that it had a deep effect on them. They expressed their desire to one day join the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. Huzoor^aa advised them that it is only purity of heart that leads to true faith. 

One of the guests said that a region had discovered petroleum fields. Huzoor^aa said that he had been informing world leaders of such circumstances before and reminded that everyone has a right over such resources and not just a specific circle of society. 

Many of the guests said that they agreed with everything Huzoor^aa had said earlier in his Friday Sermon.

Another guest, an imam of a large mosque in the country, expressed his gratitude for the invitation to Jalsa Salana, after which he mentioned that he would like to visit Huzoor^aa in the UK. Huzoor^aa said that he would be welcome at any time to stay as the Jamaat’s guest. 

Towards the end, Huzoor^aa said, “We never withdraw our hand of friendship. We hope that you too will not.”

Both the gentlemen said, in a very affirmative tone, that they too would not withdraw their hand of friendship.

Huzoor^aa prayed for their wellbeing after which they requested a photograph with Huzoor. 

The next delegation to see Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V^aa this evening was from Mayotte. After a brief introduction to the guests by Usama Joya Sahib, Missionary of Mayotte, one of the guests, who is a lawyer, said that he had the desire to build a library in collaboration with the Jamaat. Huzoor^aa explained that by looking at the large halls and great hospitality, he should not think that we are a rich community as we are not. All this becomes possible through the funding of members of the Jamaat and Allah’s grace. 

The gentleman expressed his desire to help regardless of funds, to which Huzoor^aa said that he was more than welcome to help, but he should be aware that the orthodox Muslims of the area would not take kindly to his relationship with our Jamaat, even though we would of course appreciate the help. The gentleman was adamant to be of any help whatever the reaction.

Another gentleman who is the first in his family to accept Islam Ahmadiyyat said that he had to go through many hardships after accepting Ahmadiyyat, but at the same time, he had witnessed Allah’s blessings in abundance; he got married, his economic condition improved, he was blessed with a child and all this, he said, was only to mention a few.

The next and last delegation to have an audience with Huzoor^aa this evening was from Lithuania. This was a large group, but many of them got the opportunity to speak to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih^aa on various matters and seek guidance. 

A member of the delegation asked Huzoor^aa how he had felt when he became Khalifa. Huzoor replied that it was as if a heavy burden had fallen upon his shoulders. Another member – an author – expressed his desire to write about the institution of Jalsa Salana. Huzoor^aa advised that it would be better that he wrote about the peaceful teachings of Islam. 

A Christian lady mentioned that she was aware of the beliefs of many religions and was particularly interested in the purification of the soul. She wanted to know Huzoor’s views on the topic. Huzoor^aa explained that every religion has its own concepts in this regard, but we should all pray that Allah keeps us on the right path. Once one is conscious that God watches every deed of ours, one tends to lead their life in the best possible way. This automatically leads to the purification of the soul.

Another gentleman, from Azerbaijan, requested for prayers and enquired when Huzoor^aa intended to visit their land. Huzoor said that they should pray that this becomes possible soon and also advised that they should plan for such an event and formally send out an invitation so that plans could be made accordingly. The gentleman happily agreed to do whatever was in his capacity.

Another delegate told Huzoor^aa that he worked for the state education department. He mentioned that they worked on schools working in collaboration within the country and was willing to extend this countrywide scheme to an international scale. Huzoor^aa instructed the missionary to look into the matter and discuss the feasibility with the Markaz.

A lady was eager to know how Huzoor^aa finds time to fulfil his personal interests and hobbies. Huzoor^aa replied, “My hobby is the work that I do for the Jamaat.”

A young man enquired why Islam seemed more attractive than Christianity. Huzoor^aa explained that all prophets were from Allah the Almighty and the Holy Prophet Muhammad^sa was also from Allah. It was through him that the last book of God, the Holy Quran, was revealed for the welfare of mankind. Huzoor^aa said that since there is no coercion in religion, anyone is welcome to accept Islam, but whosoever does not, it is a matter of their own choice.

Some members wanted to know about the basic teachings of Islam Ahmadiyyat. Huzoor^aa very lovingly stated briefly the magnificent teachings in the most appealing manner.

After each mulaqat, Huzoor^aa graciously permitted photographs with him.

Karlsruhe, 5 July: Immediately after the Jumuah prayer, Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa made his way for a meeting with press representatives who had questions to ask on social issues related to Islam.

The first question asked was with regard to Huzoor’s^aa message at Jalsa Salana. Huzoor^aa explained that the purpose behind the event is for the spiritual level of members of the community to improve and for them to fulfil their responsibilities towards their Creator and fellow beings.

Another press representative asked why Islamophobia existed. Huzoor^aa replied that we should understand the real reason behind this hostility towards Islam. Huzoor^aa explained that there is a very small percentage who feel threatened by Islam. There are two groups: one who, in the name of Islam create unrest and violence, while there is the other group who, again in the name of Islam, promotes peace and love. Disturbances by extremists are the fault of the very extremists. If one cannot find anything wrong with the teachings of Islam, then there can be no Islamophobia.

Huzoor^aa then advised to look at countries such as USA where thousands of people are killed too frequently. Huzoor^aa said that American civilians are responsible for those instances and asked why such people are not considered a similar sort of threat? Thus, we should not brand these actions in the name of Islam, even if they are committed in the name of Islam.

After that, a brief question was posed to Huzoor^aa about his message to the world through this Jalsa. Huzoor^aa said that he had already alluded to this in his Friday Sermon: we should discharge our responsibilities to God and our fellow beings and live peaceably across the world.

A question was then asked in Bosnian, which was translated for Huzoor^aa; Why do Europeans feel threatened and insecure by immigrants. Huzoor^aa said that such a question should actually be asked to those who feel threatened. If Europeans feel threatened, then, Huzoor^aa explained, it is because of the growth of certain communities which results in locals having many apprehensions. Huzoor^aa went on to clarify that religion never spreads through immigration. If values are kept in tact, then there should be no threat felt by anyone.

A lady asked about the role of women in the community, to which Huzoor^aa responded that we must, as Muslims, follow the teachings of Islam, the Holy Book and the sayings of the Prophet^sa. If we do not, then this would be deviating from the actual purpose of our religion. It is an established fact that only a century ago, rights were not given to women in the West. It was Islam that offered rights for divorce, the freedom in choosing a life partner and other such privileges over a thousand years ago.

Huzoor^aa added that the following day, the ladies would be holding their session in which ladies would offer speeches and that he would also be addressing them in their hall. Their side of Jalsa Salana has an equal amount of effort and preparation behind it and same facilities and amenities. The journalist who asked this question was accompanied by a German Ahmadi lady, Khola Hübsch Sahiba. Huzoor^aa told the journalist that her host speaks much better than many of the men of the community.

Huzoor^aa added at the end, “My philosophy is, if women work outside the shade of men, they flourish better.”

This brought the press conference to a close.

The land of Germany, yet again, has been blessed with the arrival of Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V^aa for the 44^th Jalsa Salana Germany to be held in Karlsruhe from 5-7 July. Huzoor^aa arrived at Baitus Subuh, Frankfurt on Tuesday, 2 July at around 22:30 local time.

Extensive planning and preparations had taken place to prepare the Jalsa site for Huzoor’s inspection and the formal inauguration of Jalsa duties. Huzoor^aa addressed volunteers at the inspection on Thursday, 4 July and reminded them of their responsibilities with regard to taking special care of the guests of the Promised Messiah^as.

Today, Huzoor^aa initiated the Jalsa with the flag hoisting ceremony prior to his Friday Sermon.

At present, thousands of guests from a plethora of nationalities and countries are populating the magnanimous site for the three-day spiritual assembly where they will have the opportunity to offer daily prayers behind Hazrat Khalifatul Masih^aa whilst also listening to his insightful addresses.

The speeches delivered by Huzoor^aa will be broadcast live to millions across the globe through MTA International; Saturday will see two key-note addresses by Huzoor. The first from the ladies’ Jalsa Gah at 11:00 GMT.

Thereafter, in the afternoon at 14:30 GMT, Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa shall deliver an address to non-Ahmadi guests attending Jalsa Salana.

Sunday’s highlight encapsulates the Bai‘at ceremony with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V^aa at 13:45 GMT followed by the concluding speech to the convention. Also, on the agenda is an awards ceremony during which Huzoor^aa will award students who have shown exemplary academic performance.

Guests who have flocked to Germany are reaping blessings from Huzoor’s presence whilst having the opportunity to pray behind Hazrat Amirul Momineen^aa; to offer Tahajud prayer, listen to Duroos and meet fellow Ahmadi brothers and sisters from close and afar.

A number of speeches covering a broad spectrum of topics will be delivered throughout the three days by various speakers; some themes include the humility of the Holy Prophet^sa, the advent of the Promised Messiah^as, the Holy Quran, the blessed life of Hazrat Maulana Ghulam Rasul Rajeki^ra, Islam in the digital age, Salat, the remembrance of Allah, the pledge of Bai‘at and the upbringing of children.

A separate session throughout the Jalsa Salana is taking place at the ladies’ Jalsa Gah where several speeches and sittings will occur simultaneous to the men’s Jalsa Gah. However, all shall listen to Huzoor’s addresses live at the same time.

As always, guests have arrived for this spiritual gathering from a host of countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, African countries, America, Canada, the United Kingdom, Middle Eastern countries, Russia, Georgia, France, Finland, Belgium, Czech Republic, Romania, Bulgaria, Iceland and even south American countries to mention but a handful.

As the Promised Messiah^as expressed at the very first Jalsa Salana in 1891 in Qadian, the purpose of the Jalsa will be spiritual reformation; a teaching Huzoor^aa has continuously stressed.

The presence of Huzoor^aa at Karlsruhe is an extremely special opportunity for those present to fulfil the spiritual purpose of the Jalsa as described by the Promised Messiah^as

The three-day proceedings will be televised and streamed live by MTA International. Readers are urged to tune in and benefit from this blessed occasion.