|
|
|
|
 Hussein Jiwa, President of The Council of European Jamaats was accompanied by Dr Asgarali Moledina, President of World Federation KSIMC to Mehfile Zainabe in North Paris for a meeting to discuss the progress of the Jamaat.
The meeting commenced with Br Azad Hedaraly’s presentation, where he introduced his new committee members and listed the new measures of Mehfile Zainab. These include women’s entry in the committee, as there are two women among the six members of the committee. Emphasis on broadcast of Quranic verses, Ziyarat e Waritha and imam’s shrines on the screens in order to draw public attention was discussed along with having live majlis on the website and on YouTube for those who are unable to attend the centre. He spoke about the monthly newsletter which includes several sections such as: The life of Mehfile Zainab, Biography of Massoumines, Nutrition, and Recipe. He introduced the development of the Smartphone application which will enable members of Mehfile Zainab to access the programme details and Salaat time. The funeral committee, which is independent to the Jamaat and lead by Al Hajj Salim Amarsy and Al Hajj Arif Hiridjee, was mentioned in regard to organising funerals as soon as a person dies. He also talked about the Travel committee, which is led by himself and Al Hajj Arif Hiridjee and their organisation of trips to holy sites without any profit motive. Lastly they are providing flats for students who come from all over the world.
A few important topics were also discussed during this meeting. The need for inviting good speakers for the youth to interact with is vital in order to attract individuals towards the Mehfile, along with organising engaging activities such as Quizzes, Debates and sports.
On inquiring about Yateem (Orphan) Fund distribution and accountability, Dr Moledina mentioned that the money predominantly goes to Iraq, where there are approximately 2 to 4 million orphans. The funds go to the children who have lost one or two of their parents. Due to the lack of Orphanages, the responsibility of the children is taken by a family member and hence the money is directly sent to them. A report which includes the contributors name, the Orphan Child’s photo and the amount paid is sent to The World Federation. Every month, an approximation of $500,000 is sent toward this cause.
The issue of Visa for Maulana’s and getting in touch with the prefecture in order to see if there are facilities available for associations was also raised. An appropriate amount to gift each speaker for his service was also considered at 1500 to 2000 Euros.
Providing the Youth who want to acquire Islamic Knowledge with options for further studies in Europe is also an important facet for further development of the community. Suggestions such as ICAS in London were put forward, along with several summer camps that are organised on a yearly basis.
The financing of Alim Grants, by Sehme Imam, for Jamaats in difficulties was also discussed as many Jamaats are unable to afford an Alim. Regardless of a Jamaat being a member of Coej or not, the Grant is only accorded after consultation of the Jamaat’s account and if the Alim is appropriate.
Dr Husein Jiwa confirmed that Coej will provide Madressa teachers training in Paris and the neuropsychological aspect will also be included. Furthermore, the Madrasah Centre of Excellence is also working on providing training for Madressa Teachers as its goal is to increase Taqwa as much as knowledge.
Dr Husein Jiwa insisted that committee members and nominated councillor should regularly attend CoEJ meetings and conferences. The travel expenses would be covered by CoEJ and in order to eradicate any language barriers, Guajarati translation will be provided at the meetings/conferences. Dr Husein Jiwa also verified that Insha’Allah the next Coej conference will be held in Paris.
The recommendations about Khums were also examined, the admin fees now is only 3% for any transaction (not only Khums). As for the Sehme Imam portion, it was recommended to be used for Tabligh, mostly in Europe, where the needs are greater. For example, there being 150,000 Shias in Denmark and 500,000 Muslims, whereas the population is 5,000,000.
To read more please log on to CoEJ Website
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
