Benedikt is a former Christian who converted to Islam five years ago and took part in iERA’s New Muslim Support Project in Austria. In 2019, just a few weeks after his conversion, Benedikt attended the first official iERA New Muslim Retreat in Austria and learnt 4 days of prayer, ablution, recitation of Al-Fatiha as well as the etiquette of Dua. In addition to these prayer workshops, he also learnt the pillars of iman during an unforgettable weekend and took part in practical workshops where he learnt how to master his journey as a believer, as a New Muslim.
Benedikt comes from a Christian home with parents who are both Catholic theologians. They both took the conversion relatively well and Brother Benedict was able to continue his journey as a new Muslim hungry for knowledge. He grew up with Muslims and in later life he became more and more interested in the meaning of life until he came across the existential answers of Islam. When his Muslim friends invited him to the mosque and he plucked up the courage to attend, he subsequently embraced Islam.
After 5 years, he recently attended the 6th iERA Retreat for New Muslims again and was absolutely delighted. The increase in professionalism from the 1st to the 6th retreat astounded him. He noticed a big difference in quality. In addition to the fact that only 11 New Muslims took part in the first retreat, there were now 33 New Muslims who went through the same programme as he did 5 years ago.
Benedikt has learnt a lot about Islam since his Shahada and the sense of community at the retreat has strengthened him once again. He has made great strides and was happy to attend the retreat again. He recommends the retreat to anyone who is starting out and wants to strengthen their relationship with Allah both intellectually and spiritually.
By
