Seminar for Imams: Reviving the Prophetic Methodology – Istanbul, May 2025 (Gallery)

From May 4 to 8, 2025, an international seminar for imams and preachers was held in Istanbul under the title “Reviving the Prophetic Methodology”, organized by the Shoura – Assembly of the Muslim Community of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The event gathered imams from various mosques across Luxembourg, led by the Muslim Religious Leader, Mufti Hafiz Hilmija Redžić, with specialized lectures and seminar leadership provided by Sheikh Ahmed Alsayyed.

The aim of the seminar was to deepen the understanding of the Prophet’s methodology in conveying the message and teaching, to strengthen religious engagement in a contemporary context, and to renew inner vitality in approaching Islamic knowledge and sermons (khutbah).

The program included intensive sessions, workshops, and practical modules covering the following topics:
• the application of Qur’anic methodology in a contemporary context
• the importance of the sermon and its impact on the community
• effective ways to communicate the message to youth and families
• the foundations of spiritual and practical education

The seminar opened with a lecture on the ten foundations of education in the Prophetic tradition. It was emphasized that education begins with awakening the heart, rather than merely transmitting information, and that it must be rooted in the Qur’an, the Sunnah, spiritual awareness, and the real-life context of people.

The second day was dedicated to the khutbah as a mercy from Allah and a central tool in building the community. Participants were warned not to neglect the preparation of the sermon nor its essential role in the life of the believer. A visit to the publishing house Daru-l-Menar enriched the program through exposure to beneficial educational publications.

The third day featured an open discussion focused on the current challenges faced by the community, stressing the responsibility of imams and preachers to concentrate on practical, frequent, and fundamental issues. Warnings were issued against expending energy on marginal matters while the essential needs of the community are overlooked.

During the final session, held on May 7, certificates were solemnly presented to the participants, and the seminar concluded with a supplication to Allah to accept the efforts made, bless the work of the imams, and make the knowledge gained a light for the community. Brotherhood, the fruitful exchange of ideas, and spiritual renewal made this seminar a truly exceptional experience for all attendees.

The seminar debrief and proposal of new ideas and themes took place in a spirit of brotherhood, during a cruise on the Bosphorus.

We pray to Allah to bless this noble project and strengthen the unity of Muslims in Luxembourg through knowledge and sincere intentions.