For Innocent Chitseko, Christianity was more than just a faith—it was the foundation of his identity.
He was raised in a devout Christian household, where worshipping Jesus as God was a way of life. Actively involved in church activities, he regularly attended services, engaged in discussions about scripture, and found a sense of belonging within his religious community.
His faith shaped his values, his relationships, and his understanding of the world. He never imagined that one day, his convictions would take an entirely different direction.
That all changed when he met Du’aat from the Islamic Education and Research Academy (iERA). These individuals, passionate about their mission, approached him not with arguments or confrontation, but with patience, wisdom, and sincerity.
They spoke of Islam with kindness, explaining the message of monotheism—the belief that there is only one God, without partners or intermediaries. Unlike previous encounters he had with people of different faiths, these discussions felt different. The way they articulated their beliefs, backed by scripture and reason, planted a seed of curiosity in his heart.
Intrigued, Chitseko began to explore Islam further. He read the Quran alongside the Bible, comparing their teachings and seeking clarity on questions that had lingered in his mind for years. The concept of pure monotheism resonated deeply with him.
The more he studied, the more he realized that Islam provided answers to questions he had never fully resolved in his previous faith. He found himself drawn to the simplicity and logic of the message.
After much reflection and contemplation, a defining moment arrived.
Chitseko could no longer deny the truth that had become so clear to him.
With a heart filled with conviction and peace, he declared his shahada: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.” It was a moment of both spiritual awakening and personal transformation.
He knew that embracing Islam would change his life forever, but he also knew it was the right path.
However, his journey did not come without challenges, the people closest to him—his family, friends, and church community—struggled to accept his decision.
Some distanced themselves, while others questioned him, hoping he would change his mind.
He was met with skepticism, and at times, outright rejection, but his newfound faith gave him strength.
He immersed himself in learning, surrounded himself with fellow believers, and found solace in prayer.
Each day, his conviction grew stronger.
Yet, Chitseko felt that his journey was not just about his own transformation.
He had been guided to Islam through the compassion and wisdom of others, and he now felt a deep responsibility to pass that guidance forward.
“Even with my limited knowledge, I must share the truth,” he said, determined to start with his family, then his neighbors, and eventually his entire community.
For him, da’wah was not about debate—it was an act of love. Just as the iERA du’aat had cared for him, he now sought to guide others with sincerity and wisdom.
Though his journey has only just begun, Chitseko’s story is already inspiring those around him.
In a community where Islam is often misunderstood, his transformation stands as a testament to the power of truth and the courage it takes to follow it.
With every conversation and every act of kindness, he hopes to bring others closer to the light of Islam, just as he was guided toward it.
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