Groundbreaking Ceremony at the new site of Al Mahdi Islamic Community Centre was by all measures, a "Groundbreaking Success!"
On the birthdate of Imam-e-Zamana (ATF), the Council of Islamic Guidance, Pickering, made history by taking one significant leap forward to fulfilling it's growing need towards establishing a new community center at 3270 Markham Road, just South of Steeles. Over 500 community members from all Toronto jamaats came to support and share in the historic milestone, marking the "Groundbreaking Ceremony" of the new community site.
Inspirational keynote speeches were made to an enthusiastic and attentive crowd by; Br. Ejaz Haider [President, Council of Islamic Guidance]; Br. Razak Damani [President, Islamic Shia Ithna-Asheri Jama'at]; the Hon. Jim Karygiannis [M.P. - Scar-Agincourt]; Br. Waqar Mirza [President, Al mahdi Youth Society; Sr. Masuma Jessa, [Principal, East End Madressah]; HI Syed Muhammad Rizvi, ISIJ and HI Syed Zaki Baqri, CIG. The event was also attended by HI Sayyed Abed Raza Naqvi[resident Alim Madinatul Ilm], HI Sayyed Ahmad Raza Husayni[resident Alim Babul Ilm].
As individuals, the speakers sent a clear message on topics relating to; unity, women, youth, multiculturalism and diversity, spiritual and community progress for the strength and advancement of the Islamic way of life in Toronto. Collectively, the speakers common thread was the continued need to build, support, and Inshallah, successfully complete the Al Mahdi Islamic Community Centre. Clearly, the audience praised and applauded each speaker, connecting with their message.
At the closing of the ceremony, the deeply moved members made pledges which reached over $550,000.00 Mashallah. The donors made pledges towards classrooms, building bricks, the minar, the mimbar and over 50 mussallas. Generous donors poured from their heart and soul with a sense of genuine pride and faith that this project is the reality for the Al Mahdi Community. The donations ranged from $100 to $100,000 and also, our sisters inspired others with their support by donating their gold jewelry, bangles and rings, right on the spot, Subhanallah. One of the event organizers said, "when a five year old boy came forward and donated some loose change from his pocket amounting to $5.00, my heart dropped, and at that moment I realized that the message and conviction of everyone present, whether 5 or 95 years of age, hit home!"
This event marked the first time the community gathered on the actual property and had a first hand view of the complete scope of the project, including the size and potential of the land which is over 4 acres and were given the opportunity to assess the initial set of architectural footprints and elevation drawings. It was evident that the community found a new sense of ownership, understanding and pride in the project.
The Council of Islamic Guidance would like to thank everyone for sharing in this memorable day. May Allah (swt) give us the strength, prosperity and faith to complete this noble project -Ameen
