On Friday, April 21 over two billion Muslims worldwide celebrated Eid al Fitr. From Makkah to Moscow and in all corners of the globe, Muslims flocked to mosques, stadiums and parks to perform the prayer that marked the end of the blessed month of Ramadan.
At the Islamic Institute of Toronto, thousands came to our two Eid prayers which were held simultaneously at IIT and at the Scarborough Convention Centre.
During Ramadan, we saw a consistently large crowd – brothers and sisters and children – coming out for the first time in three years after the pandemic. Those three years were indeed a test – marked by lockdowns, social distancing, mask mandates and yes, drive-thru Iftars.
This Ramadan, we resumed our full programming which included Salaatul Tarawih by our Qaris, Qiyaamul Lail in the last ten nights, four Saturday Iftar lecture and dinner program which attracted over 1500 on average, and a beautiful 27th night Khatm al Qur’an Program.
We enhanced the social atmosphere at IIT with our IIT Fashion Store, Bake Sale on every Saturday and a return of our Bookstore (where you can find the most reasonably priced books!). Our Scouts were also engaged in a Food Drive, topping up the Malvern Community Food Hub pantry on a weekly basis.
The highlight of this Ramadan was definitely the spirit, passion and dedication of our volunteers. From food and venue preparation to parking and a myriad of other tasks our volunteers made it happen. May Allah reward them all for their efforts.
Alhamdulillah, our Ramadan Campaign was successful as we were able to surpass our goal of $300,000 – we ask Allah to bless all those who donated and supported us in any way. Your contribution will go a far way in allowing us to continue our programs and to ensure our facilities are kept in good repair.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, our scholars, volunteers and staff I wish you a belated Eid Mubarak and look forward to your continued engagement with IIT.
Farhad Khadim
Chair, Board of Directors
IIT
