QRC 2010 - Courier Post

Muslims to gather for conference

By JOE COONEY • Courier-Post Staff • November 14, 2010

WILLINGBORO — In an effort to promote the true Islamic ideals of brotherhood, peace and community -- and to try to expel the militant version of Islam that so many Americans have come to fear -- hundreds of young Muslims will gather here today for their annual leadership conference. 

Harris Zafar, spokesman for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community's Youth Association, said conferences like this are held to demonstrate the stark contrast between the community's peaceful, solution-driven approach and the aggressive militant version of Islam that conjures up terrorist acts and widespread violence.

More than 200 Muslim American youth from across the country will be attending the event at the Al-Nas'r Mosque on Bridge Street.

Representatives from each of the community's 70 youth chapters, including about 50 young men from the Willingboro chapter, will be in attendance.

The organization recently launched a nationwide "Muslims for Peace" campaign, and some of the youth have been distributing brochures to residents in the community this weekend.

"As Muslims who believe in the Messiah," said Zafar, "members of our community are reaching out to fellow Americans all over the country to let them know that Muslims do stand for peace."

Zafar said the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, reformist and fast-growing international movement within Islam.

Founded in 1889, the community spans more than 190 countries with membership exceeding tens of millions. Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA, established in 1920, is the first American-Muslim organization.

The community is the only Islamic organization to believe that the long-awaited messiah has come in the person of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) of Qadian. Ahmad claimed to be the metaphorical second coming of Jesus of Nazareth and the divine guide, whose advent was foretold by the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad.

The Community believes that God sent Ahmad, like Jesus, to end religious wars, condemn bloodshed and reinstitute morality, justice and peace.

Ahmad's advent has brought about an unprecedented era of Islamic revival and moderation. Members believe he divested Muslims of fanatical beliefs and practices by vigorously championing Islam's true and essential teachings.

Zafar said that in a time of increased threats from extremist groups, Muslim youth leaders will continue to gather to promote the Islamic ideals.

Reach Joe Cooney at (856) 317-7830 or at jcooney@camden.gannett.com