Islamic speakers attract hundreds to Gracie Fields Theatre

Two of the world’s leading Shaykh’s - Shaykh’s Zahir and Khalid Yasin - attracted 750 young Muslims to the Gracie Fields Theatre.

The event, organised by  Rochdale based multi-faith group Deen For All, began with the popular Bangladeshi artists Mizan reciting Nasheed’s from his new album "Beloved Messenger’. Shaykh Zahir then followed with a 45 minute lecture offering hope to Muslims and the wider community.

The final speaker was Shaykh Khalid Yasin from New York. Deen For All flew the Shaykh from New York. Razwan Razaq of Deen For All explained: "Shaykh Khalid Yasin was launching his own TV station in New York. We were slightly concerned he might not make it on time, but he was true to his word.

"The Shaykh has has lectured and delivered Islamic seminars in 37 different countries. We knew he would be very popular and it was inspirational listening to him."

"The attendance was excellent. All the tickets had been reserved online much earlier in the week. There were at least 300 women which pleased us as we want to cater for both genders.

"Shaykh Khalid’s team applauded us for our organisation and professionalism, adding that this was probably the best organised event they had attended in the UK. This is a testament to all the Deen for All team as well as the audience. We also wish to thank the Gracie Fields staff. They were excellent and their manager Lenny made sure everything went smoothly."

Amongst the dignitaries invited included many Imams, and Chair persons attended from the different Mosques in Rochdale, led by Haifiz Ikram. Councillors Mohammed Sharif and Imtiaz Ahmed were also in attendance as were KYP and Deeplish Community Centre Management team. Councillor Sharif commented: "I told the organisers they have produced an excellent event and I have requested copies of the lectures especially from Shaykh Zahir. I would like his lecture to be heard by people of all faiths as it promotes what Islam really is. I know I speak on behalf of my colleagues when I say I really enjoyed this evening’s event."

Date article online: 23/01/2008