VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4TH 2018
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GLOBAL PEACE
SIMONE J. SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper had the honor of being invited to The 15th National Peace Symposium hosted by The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. This is not our first event with the Ahamadiyya community; last year, our very own Jelani Grant was invited to their community social at the Driftwood Community Recreation Centre. The event is coordinated each year to bring together all people in the Jane and Finch Community, including leaders of various religious groups, media groups and students of all cultures and ages. Our shared commitment to the community is why we were selected as one of the media outlets to cover this prestigious event. Their mission; love for all, hatred for none was clearly understood, the more I read about the Ahmad-
diya’s, and upon arriving there I quickly experienced their message which transcends race, culture and class.
The Ahmadiyya Community What many people do not realize about the Islam religion is that just like other religions, there are different sects. All sects of Islam honor the teachings of the Quran, but there are certain aspects of the religion that set each apart. The Ahmaddiya Muslim Jama is the only Islamic organization that believes the long-awaited messiah has already returned, in comparison to other Muslim sects that believe they are still waiting. The AMJ community believes that God has sent their messiah in the person Mirza Ghulam Ahmed of Qadian. He lived
from 1835 -1908 and can be compared to Jesus, a messiah viewed by many Christians as the Son of God. His coming was said to be foretold by the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, and was sent to end religious wars, condemn bloodshed and promote peace. This philosophy of morality, justice and peace have brought about a revolutionary era of Islamic revival. His Holiness (peace be upon him) has fostered community by uniting the family of religions under a single banner. All religious teachings have been respected, and the teachings of Abraham, Jesus, Moses, Krishna, Lao Tzu, Buddha, and Confucius amongst others are preserved and embraced. Continued On Page 8