Huddersfield Ahmadiyya Muslim Community celebrates 100 years of London’s Fazl Mosque
Guests from different backgrounds gathered at Baitus Samad Mosque to mark the centenary of London’s first purpose-built mosque, including a live address from the community’s Worldwide Head. Members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Huddersfield welcomed guests from across the local community on Saturday 3 October to celebrate 100 years since the Fazl Mosque opened in London. The centenary gathering at Baitus Samad Mosque brought together members of the public, civic representatives and guests from different backgrounds, as part of nationwide commemorations of the mosque’s history. The evening reflected on the mosque’s continuing message of peace, service, integration and community engagement, and included a live broadcast from the national celebrations in London.
London’s first purpose-built mosque
The Fazl Mosque opened in Southfields, London, on 3 October 1926, becoming the capital’s first purpose-built mosque. The Huddersfield evening began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Mukaber Ahmad, followed by an English translation. Guests were then shown a video presentation on the history of the Fazl Mosque and its role in the life of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and its wider programme of service to humanity. Rana Masood, Missionary-in-Charge of the community, also gave a brief introduction to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, its beliefs and its work in Britain.
Address from the Worldwide Head
Guests joined a live broadcast from London, where dignitaries addressed the wider centenary celebrations. The concluding address was given by His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. He emphasised the importance of mosques as places of worship and spiritual development, and the responsibility of Muslims to contribute positively to the society in which they live. He stressed that true faith should inspire people to serve others and to fulfil their responsibilities towards their neighbours and fellow citizens.
He said:
“As we mark this centenary, I pray that the mosque may continue to be a beacon of peace and a means of bringing people together for generations to come.”
10,000 meals and volunteer hours
The centenary is also being marked through practical service across the UK. As part of the wider programme, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has committed to providing 10,000 meals for homeless and vulnerable people and 10,000 volunteer hours across Britain. The community points to the Islamic emphasis on serving humanity, as reflected in the Holy Quran.
Mosques as meeting places
Fatihul-Haq, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association Huddersfield, welcomed guests and spoke about the role of mosques within wider society. He explained that a mosque is not simply a place of worship for Muslims, but can also be a space where people of different faiths and backgrounds meet, build friendships and develop greater understanding. He highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for dialogue and community engagement, at a time when bringing people together and strengthening community relations remains important. That message is captured in the community’s well-known motto: “Love for All, Hatred for None.” The evening concluded with a meal, giving guests and community members the chance to meet, socialise and strengthen relationships. The Huddersfield gathering is one of a year of centenary activities marking the Fazl Mosque’s place in British Muslim history.
