The Eid al-Fitr prayer was held at the Islamic Centre of England, led by Hujjat Al-Islam Wal-Muslimeen Seyed Hashem Moosavi, with a strong turnout of Shia Muslims in London. On this blessed day, worshippers renewed their connection with Allah during the month of Ramadan.
The Centre opened its doors at 7:00 AM, welcoming people from different backgrounds, despite it being a working Monday on 31st March 2025. A large group of Shia Muslims gathered in orderly rows, ready to offer their prayers after a month of fasting, worship, and devotion.
The Eid prayer began at 9:00 AM, and the sound of “Allahumma Ahlu al-Kibriya’ wa al-‘Azama” filled the main hall, corridors, and courtyard.
In his first sermon, Seyed Moosavi began by thanking Allah for granting the opportunity to fast and worship during Ramadan. He encouraged everyone to remain conscious of God and to continue striving for righteousness, seeing the Eid prayer as an expression of gratitude for the opportunity to worship and for Allah’s mercy.
In the second sermon, Seyed Moosavi advised the community to maintain their piety and God-consciousness. He reminded them that the challenges of Ramadan, and the effort required to overcome the self, should be continued in the months ahead. He referenced Quranic verses that highlight Allah’s constant presence and encouraged the community to stay aware of their relationship with Him.
Seyed Moosavi also spoke about the benefits of piety, pointing out that it can help solve worldly problems. He encouraged everyone to ask Allah for the strength to keep practicing piety throughout the year, with His help.
In closing, Seyed Moosavi reflected on the achievements of Ramadan: fasting, Quranic recitation, prayers during Laylat al-Qadr, seeking forgiveness, and good deeds. He reminded the community that the goal after Ramadan is to preserve these spiritual gains and continue them throughout the year. He also encouraged practices like reading the Quran, fasting voluntary fasts, giving charity, and extra prayers to maintain the spiritual growth fostered during Ramadan.
Seyed Moosavi emphasized the importance of seeking forgiveness, quoting the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who would say, “I seek forgiveness from Allah a hundred times a day.” He reminded everyone that seeking forgiveness is key to spiritual growth.
At the end of the prayer and the sermons, worshippers greeted one another with Eid wishes and hoped for peace and harmony for all of humanity. The gathering concluded with a spread of sweets, snacks, halim, tea, and coffee, generously provided by the community’s donations.
It was a meaningful moment of reflection and celebration, as the community came together to appreciate the blessings of Ramadan and look forward to continuing their journey of faith.
