As we commemorate the centenary of the Fazl Mosque, London’s oldest mosque, we honor a beacon of interfaith harmony and a steadfast commitment to peace. Established by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in 1924, the Fazl Mosque stands as a symbol of tolerance, resilience, and dedication to justice. In his recent keynote address, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V (aba), the spiritual leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, reflected on the profound mission that this mosque has embodied for a century.
With the laying of the mosque’s foundation stone by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, the Second Caliph, the vision of the Fazl Mosque was to foster a sanctuary for worship and a platform for peace. This vision was revolutionary, especially in a period when Islam was still largely unknown in Europe. The mosque’s establishment echoed the dream of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, who yearned for Islam’s peaceful teachings to resonate worldwide.
Today, in a world where divisions often overshadow our shared humanity, the Fazl Mosque remains a vibrant symbol of unity and respect across cultures and religions. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, in his address, emphasized that true worship extends beyond ritual; it is an all-encompassing duty to both God and fellow human beings. He urged the audience to embrace Islam’s core values — compassion, justice, and love for all. This message underscores the Ahmadiyya commitment: fostering a society where faith translates into actions that uplift and unite people across divides.
The Fazl Mosque has become a haven not only for worshippers but for people of all backgrounds seeking solace and mutual respect. Its foundation reflects the Ahmadiyya belief that diversity enriches humanity. This belief aligns with the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa), who championed peace, equity, and the well-being of society.
As we look back at 100 years of the Fazl Mosque, we see a legacy that extends beyond bricks and mortar. This centenary serves as a reminder that faith-driven values — peace, humility, and empathy — can be powerful forces for change. In the words of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, may the Fazl Mosque continue to stand as a beacon of hope, lighting the way to a future where harmony and spirituality flourish side by side.
Radio VOIB 