ISNA Central Zone Conference
Azhar Azeez
Muzammil Siddiqi
Jamal Badawi
CONNECTING FAITH WITH SERVICE: The Journey of Building a Vibrant Community
“E
ffective and lasting change requires a paradigm shift,” said Dr. Jamal Badawi, in his opening address to the ISNA Central Zone Conference Dec. 7-9, 2012 at the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati. Affecting a paradigm shift in any situation, requires a willingness to honestly examine where we are now in light of the essence of the Shariah, the stories of the prophets and the way of the Sunnah. “The most beautiful aspect of Islam,” he said, “is the eternal message of truth whose universal application unites the core values of humanity in cohesive efforts to quicken and enliven one another, achieving positive integration by assimilation, not isolation.” Throughout the ages, the proper applica-
tion of Shariah unified its adherents through common religious practices and civil laws while protecting freedom of beliefs in all its forms for its non-Muslim citizens, neighbors and visitors. In a minority situation, like in the U.S., Muslims are obligated to live by Fiqh al Aqalliyat (Fiqh for Minorities). “It is false and misleading to suggest there is a contradiction between being faithful Muslims and loyal American citizens. Islamic teaching requires we respect and uphold the laws of the country we live in,” Badawi said. Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, chairman of the Fiqh Council of North America, said at the conference that the U.S. legal and social system supports pluralism as well as democracy and freedom of religion, and should be respected.
We should observe Shariah except in the matters of civic and criminal laws, in which case we should follow the laws of the country of residence.” —Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi 14
“We should observe Shariah except in the matters of civic and criminal laws, in which case we should follow the laws of the country of residence. Responsible citizenship includes accepting the Constitution of the United States and living by the laws of the land,” Siddiqi said. Azhar Azeez, vice president of ISNA-US, recalled how the Prophet Muhammed was a role model for mercy and compassion by telling the stories of the Prophet’s relationship with all of creation. Wherever he went, he treated plants, animals and humans with respect and honor. Azeez encouraged us to continually focus on stories of hope and to make every effort to communicate that hope to those who are hungry for it. “Inspire yourselves and each other with your story, telling your experiences and the truth of Islam,” Azeez said. Iyad Alnachef, director of ISNA Department of Youth Programming and Services, addressed the panel on “Inspiring Change through Leadership and Meaningful Conversation.” “Islam is beautiful. We don’t have to beautify it with plastic surgery. It was sent perfected. Don’t make your deen a PR campaign. Just be a Muslim, please God, and people will flock to Islam,” Alnachef said. “We are
Islamic Horizons March/April 2013