“Indeed, God commands justice, doing good to others, as well as courtesy to close relatives. He forbids indecency, wickedness, and aggression. He instructs you so perhaps you will be mindful.” (16:90 )            “For every day on which the sun rises, there is a (reward from God) for the one who establishes justice among people.” (al-Bukhari)            “And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way, so that [with your lives] you may bear witness to the truth before all humankind. . .” (2:143)            “Dispensers of justice will be seated on pulpits of light beside God.” (Muslim)            “Do not spread corruption in the land after it has been set in order. And call upon Him with hope and fear. Indeed, Allah’s mercy is always close to the good-doers.” (7:56)           “Even an ant in its hole and fish (in the depth of water) invoke blessings on someone who teaches people goodness.” (al-Tirmidhi)            “O believers! Remain conscious of God, and be with those who are truthful in word and deed.” (9:119)           “God does not judge you according to your bodies and appearances, but He looks into your hearts and observes your deeds.” (Muslim)            “The parable of those who spend their possessions for the sake of God is that of a grain out of which grow seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains: for God grants manifold increase unto whom He wills; and God is infinite, all-knowing.” (2:261)           “Charity does not diminish wealth.” (Riyadh al-Salihin)            “Let there be a group among you who call ˹others˺ to goodness, encourage what is good, and forbid what is evil-it is they who will be successful.” (3:104)           “Avoid cruelty and injustice...and guard yourselves against miserliness, for this has ruined nations who lived before you.” (Riyadh al-Salihin)            “Do not forget to show kindness to each other. Surely God observes your actions.” (2:237)           “(Allah) has revealed to me that you should adopt humility so that no one oppresses another.” (Riyadh al-Salihin)            “It is We who sent down this Reminder (al-Quran) and it is We who shall preserve it.” (15:9)           “The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it (to others).” (al-Bukhari)            “So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.” (2:152)           “There are two blessings that many people lose -- health and free time for doing good.” (al-Bukhari)            “Say: 'O My servants who have transgressed against your own souls, do not despair of God's mercy, for God forgives all sins. It is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.'“(39:53)           “Happy is the man who avoids dissension, but how fine is the man who is afflicted and shows endurance.” (Abu Dawud)            “And you love wealth with immense love.” (89:20)           “Being rich does not mean having a great amount of property, but (it) is being content (with what one has).” (al-Bukhari)            “Every soul is held in pledge for its deeds.” (74:38)           “Make things easy and convenient and don't make them harsh and difficult. Give cheer and glad tidings and do not create hatred.” (al-Bukhari & Muslim)           

Eid Message from Ameer of IONA

[WARREN, MI] As we bid farewell to the blessed month of Ramadan and welcome the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, I extend my warmest congratulations to you, your families, and loved ones. May this Eid be filled with blessings, happiness, and the abundant mercy of Allah.

During this special time, let us reflect on the spiritual journey we embarked upon throughout Ramadan. We dedicated ourselves to fasting, prayer, and acts of worship, seeking closeness to our Creator. As we celebrate Eid, let us carry forward the spirit of devotion and commitment beyond the blessed month.

Remember, Eid is not just a celebration but also a reminder to continue our journey towards righteousness and piety. Let us strive to maintain the good habits and practices we cultivated during Ramadan, including regular prayers, recitation of the Qur’an, and acts of charity.

As we gather with family and friends to celebrate, let us not forget those who are less fortunate, particularly our brothers and sisters in Gaza and other parts of the world facing hardship and adversity. Let our joy be tempered with compassion and solidarity as we remember them in our prayers and extend a helping hand to those in need.

Moreover, let us observe the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on this special day. Let us adorn ourselves in our finest attire, offer the Eid prayer with humility and gratitude, and exchange greetings of peace and goodwill with one another.

As we rejoice in the blessings of Eid, let us also pray for peace, justice, and prosperity for all. May Allah (SWT) grant relief to the oppressed, alleviate the suffering of the needy, and shower His mercy upon the entire ummah.

Once again, Eid Mubarak to you and your families. May Allah (SWT) accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds, and may He (SWT) bless us with joy, prosperity, and guidance in the days ahead.

With heartfelt wishes,

Imam Mustapha Elturk

Ameer of IONA

END

IONA’s mission is to transform its members and help transform the surrounding communities to righteous, God-fearing people, who collectively strive for the highest moral standard and constantly seek forgiveness from our Creator to earn His pleasure. We seek His compassion and mercy in this life and in the hereafter. We rejuvenate our soul through internal struggle and spiritual exercise in worship of our creator God. The strength of our belief in God gives us the courage to establish good and forbid evil, thus promoting a system of justice for all mankind.

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