The parliament of NSW echoed with praise of Prophet Mohammad (s) on Tuesday 11 October 2022 through nasheeds by Ahbab Al Mustapha, Azan and Maghreb prayer, glimpses from his life elaborated by politicians and interfaith leaders and honouring of distinguished guests with acknowledgements and presentations, a celebratory annual event organised by the Rahma Association of Australia at the NSW Parliament House.
Rahma, itself means mercy and The Rahma Islamic Association, a non-profitable organisation based at Sydney’s Guildford Mosque was established by young Australian born Muslims to better the current state of Australia’s Islamic communities, specifically Greater Western Sydney through the ongoing social and religious efforts to build relations with the wider Australian community, irrespective of race, religion, or gender.
The event to mark the birthday of Prophet Mohammad (s) was attended by a many Imams and Sheikhs from various mosques in Sydney, diverse group of Muslim as well as interfaith leaders, MP’s including ministers and Muslim state and local politicians.
There was a large contingent of Ahbab Al Mustafa nasheed group with their elaborate set up performing a number of segments during the two hour compact program at the celebratory event.
The formal program was commenced with MC Nasim Zereka’s acknowledgment of the country, national anthem and the recitation of Quran by Sheikh Youssef El Rich followed by the first gnashed segment by Ahbab Al Mustafa.
During the welcome address Mr Shady Elriche, President of Rahma Association of Australia acknowledged the presence of honourable guests and elaborated on the aims and objectives of the association and its long track record in serving the community in Western Sydney.
The Minister for Multiculturalism, Mark Coure relayed a congratulatory message from the premier of NSW, Dominic Perrottet and acknowledged the contribution of members of the Muslim Community in making NSW a highly successful multicultural state with its diversity, peace and harmony.
Mr Shaoquett Moselmane, the current NSW MLC, the first Muslim to enter an Australian Parliament during his address acknowledged the great community work that Rahma Association performed and elaborated on the achievements of member of the Muslim Community and its leadership towards social cohesion.
Mr Moselmane was honoured by the Sheikhs and Imams with the presentation of an Arabic golden threaded robe for his services to the community at large and for his advocacy for Palestinian human rights, indigenous people’s rights and services to the disabled locally as well as overseas.
There was a break for Maghreb prayer with Azan by Sheikh Malek Zedan and congregational prayer within the dinner hall of the Parliament.
The Leader of the NSW Opposition, Chris Minns gave glimpses from the life of Prophet Mohammad (s) showcasing his compassion, concern, forgiveness and mercy to all humanity, a role model to be emulated in this day and age as well.
Other speakers at the event included Mr Jihad Dib MP, Member for Lakemba, Mr Guy Zangari MP, Member for Fairfield, Sheikh Yahya Al Safi, Imam of Lakemba Mosque, Father Dave Safi, Anglican Priest and a presentation address by young women Amira Tayba Mesto, all elaborating on the various characteristics of the Prophet Mohammad (s) and lessons from his blessed life, Seerah.
The final note and supplication was given by Sheikh Azzam Mesto followed by gift presentations to honoured guests and further nasheeds by Ahbab Al Mustafa.
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