In a quiet Ugandan village, a sense of excitement filled the air as people gathered for a special occasion—Da’awa Day.
Organized by iERA Uganda, the event was designed to foster learning and dialogue about Islam. Despite the intense midday sun, the enthusiasm of the attendees was undeterred.
Men, women, and children from different backgrounds came together, united by curiosity and a shared desire to engage in meaningful discussions about faith.
Brother Yahya, the iERA district head, took center stage, his voice strong and welcoming. “I’m not just thanking the Muslims here today,” he said, addressing the crowd, “but also our non-Muslim brothers and sisters who have taken time from their busy lives to join us for this important occasion.”
His message set the tone for an inclusive discussion about faith and understanding.
As he engaged the audience, he posed a thought-provoking question: “Who here knows about God?” A sea of hands shot up.
He smiled, then continued, “But how do you understand God?” The question sparked a lively exchange, with attendees offering various perspectives—some viewing God as a distant creator, others as a force of nature, and some as a personal spirit.
The diversity of responses highlighted the very reason for the gathering: to seek clarity and knowledge.
Stepping up next was Sheikh Muhammad Kalanzi, the district head of Da’awa. His presence commanded attention, but it was his passionate delivery that truly captivated the audience. “The era we live in,” he declared, “is the era of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). His teachings remain relevant to every aspect of our lives, even today.”
Using relatable examples, he emphasized the importance of worshipping one God and staying true to Islamic teachings.
The crowd listened intently, drawn to his message of faith and unity. Sheikh Kalanzi’s speech wasn’t about division; it was about connection—fostering understanding and addressing the shared human pursuit of truth.
As the event continued, the iERA coordinator joined Brother Yahya to pose another key question: “How do we identify the true religion?” The answer, they explained, is Islam—not through coercion, but through reasoned understanding and personal conviction.
The impact of the gathering became evident in a remarkable moment—eight individuals, deeply moved by the discussions, stepped forward to recite the Shahada, officially embracing Islam. A wave of joy swept through the crowd as the new converts were warmly welcomed into the faith.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the Da’awa Day gathering came to a close. Attendees left not only with a greater understanding of Islam but also with a renewed sense of community and purpose. The event had planted seeds of faith and knowledge, ensuring that the spirit of Da’awa would continue to grow in the heart of Uganda.
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