A record number of worshippers joined at Friday prayers today held at the country's biggest mosque, Masjidul Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanul Auzam. The afternoon prayers were conducted by one of the renowned Islamic scholars, Adalath party key member Sheikh Ilyas Hussain. New President Mohamed Nasheed , Islamic Affairs Minister Dr. Abdul Majeed Bari and some other ministers attended the prayer. This is the first Friday after President Nasheed assumed office on Tuesday since winning the first multi-party presidential election of the country
The congregation was the biggest so far which is an indication of the trust given by the people to the new government for strengthening the faith and principles of Islamic faithfully followed by the hundred percent Muslim country. The people were also eager to see their new president join in the Friday prayers with them and have the pleasure of meeting and greeting him. The gathering was also very eager to listen to the sermon of Sheikh Ilyas Hussain famous for his eloquence and in depth knowledge in Islam.
In his sermon Sheikh Ilyas reminded the people, the greatest blessing bestowed on the people is the religion of Islam which he appealed to the people to follow diligently and faithfully. He said Islam calls for unity and solidarity among the people, and thankfulness to Almighty Allah is part of the great faith. He asked the people to faithfully perform their five daily prayers and be true to the other religious duties and good behaviour.
The youthful Sheikh expressed his sadness about the declining religious values and discipline and appealed to be good Muslims and remain thankful to Allah. He also said Islams calls for understanding and respect among the people and deplores unkindness, jealousy and confrontation. He prayed for Allah's blessings on the country and leaders to be good and honest leaders.
President Nasheed has pledged to the people during his election campaign he will attach great importance to strengthen Islamic foundations and principles in the country and he has established a Ministry of Islamic Affairs appointing is Dr. Abdul Majeed Bari as its minister.Dr. Bari is one of the prominent Islamic scholars of the country
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