A monthly spiritual gathering was organised by Minhaj ul Quran Women League Nelson to mark ‘Giyarwee Sharif’ on the 19th of April 2015 at Minhaj ul Quran Centre Carr Road Nelson. The programme commenced with the verses from the Holy Quran. Ghulam Fatima (MWL President, Nelson), the host of the programme, welcomed the guests in her welcome address.

Blessings were continuously bestowed upon the Holy Prophet (SAW) by Sister Shakila who recited a beautiful Naat Sharif called “Habiba Uchi Shaan Waalaya”. Sister Nasreen Naeem co- hosted the Mehfi and introduced the next Naat khawan, Sister Rabia, who beautifully recited “Din Raat Manga Mein Eho Duawan”.

Sister Ghulam Fatima threw life on the blessed life and character of Hazarat Imam Ali (RA). Sisters Humaira and Zahida (General Sec Burnley MWL) recited a Naat called “Kareebae Mustafa hai”. The beautiful Naats were continued by Sister Nida who read an amazing Naat called" SubhanAllah", followed by Sisters Aizah and Nida who recited two Naats called "Tu Shamme Risalat Hai" and "Masjid Nabawi Yeh tou Baata". The final Naat of the Mehfil called "Das Ni Halima Saadiya Kitu le ayein Sona lal", was recited by Sister Zohra.

Sister Nasreen Akhtar (Dawah secretary MWL UK) congratulated the Women League Nelson on its hard work for holding such a successful spiritual gathering. She began her speech by informing listeners how every century has a Wali (saint) and about how the Great Shaykh Abdul Qadir Gilani (RA) is the Wali of all Walis (saint of saints). She further informed the audience about the life and works of Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Tahir ul Qadri, who has dedicated his entire life for the betterment of mankind by promoting the teachings of Islam. She said that Dr Qadri is busy in highlighting the true values and principles of Islam. She continued by raising awareness amongst the audience about the many widespread international projects of Minhaj-ul-Quran. Everyone was urged to join membership with Pakistani Awaami Tehreek with the help of Sister Sehrish Ismail (PAT) who was also in attendance.

The listeners were also told about the weekly Monday Halqa-e-Darood programmes held at the Carr Road Centre Nelson and about the numerous benefits of reciting Darood Sharif within a group. Furthermore, the topic of repentance was discussed in order to raise awareness and inform listeners on the great powers of Allah Almighty regarding His forgiveness and how every individual should seek forgiveness and attempt to improve their character.

Towards the end of the programme a heartfelt combined Zikr was led by Sister Ghulam Fatima followed by Salaam led by Sister Anam in her amazing voice. The Mehfil concluded with a touching Dua by Sister Nasreen Akhtar. Packaged food was provided to all attendees of the programme.

Report by Nahid Akhtar (MWL Nelson)