Saturday 4 October 2008

Eid al-Fitr is a festival that we can all learn from -british Prime Minister Gordon Brown

Dr. Mozammel Haque .

LONDON: The British Muslim Community is celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr on Tuesday, the 30th of September 2008. On this auspicious occasion, the British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, MP. has sent his Eid Message on 30 September 2008 to the British Muslims wishing them all best wishes. “I am aware that Eid al-Fitr is a special time of year for Muslim communities in the UK and all across the world. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan - the month of fasting for Muslims, which is also the month of charity, family, contemplation, and recitation of the Qur'an.”

“I know Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion but also a day of gratitude for the everyday blessings we enjoy in life. It brings together friends and families, and encourages Muslims to continue the teachings from the month of Ramadan throughout the rest of the year- particularly the lessons of giving, community and charity. These shared values are reflected in the generosity that British Muslims have shown over the years in helping those less fortunate than themselves across the world,” said the British Prime Minister.
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Gordon Brown, MP, also said, “At this special time for Muslim communities we can also reflect on the tremendous contribution of British Muslims to British life over many decades.”

British Prime Minister also said, “Eid al-Fitr is a festival that we can all learn from.” He sent his “Best wishes to you and your family. Eid Mubarak.”

Eid Message from the Muslim Council of Britain
The Muslim Council of Britain, the umbrella organisation of the British Muslims has issued also Eid Message on 29 September 2008. “All praises are due to Allah Almighty alone who has made it possible for us to fast and enjoy the fruits of another Blessed month of Ramadan. We praise and thank Him as we should. And we send our best greetings of peace upon our beloved Messenger, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), his family, companions and righteous followers,” the press release said.
The Secretary General of the Muslim Council Council of Britain (MCB), said, “Eid al-Fitr, a most joyous occasion on the Muslim calendar is with us once again, and I on behalf of the Muslim Council of Britain, take this opportunity to send my choicest greetings to all Muslims and humanity during this auspicious time.

“The day of Eid is rooted in the sacrifice and self-awareness cultivated in the month that has gone before, and our celebration marks a time when we give thanks to God for partaking in the spiritual feast that was offered to us during the month of Ramadan,” He said.

Dr. Muhammad Abdul Bari, the Secretary General of the MCB, said, “During this month, the MCB encouraged all its affiliated mosques and community associations to use the opportunity to open their doors to the local community. We encouraged British Muslims to engage open heartedly with our neighbours, whether Muslim or not, and of course in striving to make a real positive impact on the lives of countless millions around the world who suffer needlessly. The day of Eid is also a timely reminder that we can share our joy and happiness with others. In London, the MCB will be assisting the Mayor as he invites thousands of Londoners to celebrate Eid in the world-famous Trafalgar Square.”
"We hope such initiatives are repeated across the country. When our community comes under sustained attack from cynics keen to expose our supposed separatism and our inability to integrate we must remain steadfast, reach out to our neighbours of all faiths and none, be vigilant in upholding our rights but be ever ready in discharging our responsibilities to all those around us, with humility and compassion,” Dr. Abdul Bari said.
Dr. Abdul Bari also said, “The month of Ramadan has seen numerous accounts of British mosques and charities raising record amounts for the needy around the world. Eid al-Fitr translates as the 'festival of charity'; I hope each and every one of us can uphold this spirit of charity in the year to come. I urge those in power to also strive to provide a better world for the millions that rely on their generosity and kindness.”

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