Baitul Futuh Mosque, the largest mosque in western Europe, located in south London, is set to host a grand reopening ceremony after a fire in 2015 badly damaged its administration building.
The mosque is expected to welcome hundreds of visitors for the inauguration of the newly rebuilt complex, following a £20m improvement project.
The fire on 26 September 2015, which started when only a handful of worshippers were inside the mosque, caused damage to about 50% of the administration building's ground floor, part of the first floor, and a section of the roof. However, the mosque itself "escaped completely unscathed," as confirmed by London Fire Brigade station manager Philip Morton at the time.
The rebuilding process resulted in an ornate, geometric frontage, featuring a five-storey complex with two large multipurpose halls, offices, and guest rooms. The administration building can now accommodate at least 10,500 people for prayer, according to the mosque's website.
The newly inaugurated complex will also host the 19th annual National Peace Symposium, with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the worldwide head and Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, set to deliver the keynote address. The event is expected to attract parliamentarians, academics, and faith representatives.
The reopening of Baitul Futuh Mosque's administration building is a significant milestone for the local and global Muslim community, showcasing the strength of unity, faith, and resilience in the face of adversity. The rebuilt complex serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the individuals and groups involved in the project, as well as the generosity of donors who supported the initiative.
The mosque's reopening represents a symbolic rebirth, a fresh start after a challenging period. It is an occasion to celebrate the values of community, inclusivity, and peace, which the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community upholds. The rebuilt complex will provide a safe and welcoming space for prayer, events, and community activities, fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding.
In conclusion, Baitul Futuh Mosque's reopening ceremony is an event of great significance, both for the Muslim community and the wider society. The newly rebuilt complex represents a triumph over adversity, a testament to the power of faith and unity. The occasion provides an opportunity to celebrate diversity, promote peace, and strengthen bonds between different communities. Photo by Incredibleahmadiyya, Wikimedia commons.