Eid ul Adha 2023: A Celebration of Unity and Renewed Friendship
Alhamdulillah! On 28th June, the joyous occasion of Eid ul Adha prayer was celebrated with great fervor at the Gallipoli Mosque, located at 15/19 Gelibolu Parade, Auburn, 2144. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as over 300 people gathered to offer their prayers and partake in the festivities. The day commenced with the arrival of attendees at 8:45 AM, eagerly anticipating the day’s events.
At precisely 9:00 AM, the Eid prayers began, led by the esteemed Sheikh Mohammed Yaquob. The gathering of faithful individuals united in prayer, seeking the blessings of Allah SWT. The sermon, delivered by Sheikh Yaquob during the Khutbah, emphasized the significance of Eid ul Adha and recounted the unwavering trust displayed by Prophet Ibrahim in his obedience to Allah. His words resonated deeply within the hearts of the attendees, reminding them of the values of faith, sacrifice, and devotion.
Following the prayers and the joyous exchange of salaams, ALMA organized a delightful spread of light refreshments for the community. The aroma of traditional delicacies filled the air, as attendees indulged in delectable treats and engaged in conversations, further deepening the sense of unity and togetherness. ALMA’s efforts in organizing the event and ensuring its success were greatly appreciated by all.
This year’s Eid ul Adha celebration at the Gallipoli Mosque will be remembered as a momentous occasion that brought the community together, fostering unity and renewing friendships. It served as a reminder of the values that Eid ul Adha represents—faith, sacrifice, and devotion to Allah and one another. The event showcased the diversity and harmony within the community, celebrating the shared traditions and beliefs that bind them together.
The congregants included not only members of the Sri Lankan community but also individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and unity. Eid ul Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, serves as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and his willingness to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail, in obedience to Allah’s command. This occasion offers an opportunity for individuals to reflect on their own acts of sacrifice and devotion.
As the prayers concluded, the community gathered to embrace one another, exchanging heartfelt greetings and well-wishes for the festive occasion. The act of embracing, commonly known as “hugging for Eid,” symbolizes the renewal of friendships and the strengthening of the community bond. It was heartening to witness the joyous expressions on the faces of both young and old as they embraced each other with love and warmth.
ALMA extends its sincere appreciation to all who attended the event, as well as the dedicated volunteers who worked tirelessly to make it a resounding success. Their efforts in organizing and executing the celebration played a vital role in fostering a sense of community spirit and joy. The occasion served as a testament to the strength of the community and its unwavering commitment to coming together in times of celebration and reflection.
As the day concluded at 10:30 AM with the cleanup activities, attendees left the mosque with hearts filled with joy, gratitude, and a renewed sense of unity. Eid ul Adha 2023 will forever remain etched in the memories of those who participated, reminding them of the power of faith, sacrifice, and the strength that lies in coming together as one community.
