Ramadan is also known as the month of fasting, benevolence and social cooperation.
The Holy month witnesses a number of activities, festivals and programmes organised by South Auckland Muslim Association (SAMA) at its Masjid Al Mustafa.
Iftar Meals
Iftar catering is provided for the community within the Mosque every day during Ramadan. The tents located next to the Mosque are a prominent symbol of the Ramadan spirit of giving and sharing, with people from all walks of life, regardless of their nationality, social status or financial background, sitting shoulder to shoulder to break their fast.
Free Iftar meals are offered to hundreds of people at the Mosque, sponsored by the members of our Association.
Zakat Fund
The Zakat Fund intensifies its campaigns during Ramadan to raise awareness about Zakat among the members of the society. In addition to supporting its beneficiaries in New Zealand including needy families, widowed women and poor students, the Zakat Fund is distributed to other needy people in countries of need.
Islamic Lectures
In addition to charity activities, Ramadan at Masjid Al Mustafa also featured a series of lectures. The programme, held at the Mosque from the first of the Holy Month, comprises appealing and educational programmes and activities for the community.
These include (1) Quran recitation by Madrasa students (2) Speeches by Madrasa students (3) Naat recitation, which is open to public (4) Quiz competition (5) 10-minute daily speech by Pesh Imam on various topics (6) Speeches on specific events corresponding to the day and (7) One-hour Sunday classes after Zuhur Salah.
In addition, Majid Al Mustafa invites Alims and Huffaz from overseas to lead Salat Al Taraweh (congregational prayers). The beautiful recitation of the Qaris and inspirational lectures provided during this month ensure an engaged, passionate and dedicated Muslim community in South Auckland.
Itiqaaf Program
During the last 10 days of Ramadan, a group comprising our members dedicate their time and stay at the Mosque. This group organise themselves to ensure that the programmes are held continuously, round the clock.
Eid Festival
The popular Eid Festival, a joint venture between SAMA and New Zealand Muslim Sports Association, will be held at Centre Park, Mangere on August 18, 2013 offering fun for the whole family.
Spreading a cheerful atmosphere, the Festival combines a consumer show along with traditional festivities. The products offered for sale include a wide variety of clothes, dates, family-friendly consumer goods, children toys, exotic gifts and traditional foods. While enjoying the items on offer, guests are also allowed to get a taste of sporting activities that take place throughout the Festival.
Ibrar Sheikh is President of the South Auckland Muslim Association, which owns Masjid Al Mustafa. He can be contacted on 021-2408786. Further information can also be obtained from Azad Khan (Secretary) on 0274-526304, Molvi Shafeez (Khatib & Imam) on 021-2982851. Follow Naushad Ali on Facebook (Sama Al Mustafa Masjid). Website: www.sama.co.nz
Photo :
1. Majid Al Mustafa, owned by the South Auckland Muslim Association
2. Muslims praying at Majid Al Mustafa in South Auckland
