posted on January 01, 2012 18:14
Over 7,000 attendees gathered in Downtown Chicago's elite Sheraton Towers to reflect with the world's most inspirational and influential Muslim leaders. The program was primarily framed around the life of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) -- his experiences and his legacy. Workshops hosted by Yusuf Estes, café sessions with Mustafa Hosny, lectures with Dr. Ragheb Sirjani, and sermons by Zaid Shakir all presented Muhammad's life as a model for the present and future generations of Muslims. The first annual Qur'an competition also featured talented youth who dedicated their lives to preserving Islam's holy book.
For three days, conference attendees engaged in a variety of activities designed to cleanse the soul and encourage deeper spirituality. Guest speakers discussed traditions from the Prophet's time and shed light on many potential avenues for religious and spiritual fulfillment.
The MAS-ICNA Convention also featured the first annual Qur'an competition ever to be held on a national level in the United States. Competitors from over two dozen states recited various portions of the Qur'an before a judging council of religious scholars. The prizes were awarded during the final session of the conference. Convention organizers intend to expand the competition in the following year.
The MAS-ICNA Convention focused on community issues as well. Guest speakers and religious scholars convened to present at the closing ceremony innovative ideas to face the Muslim community's regular challenges.
The youth program also emphasized the importance of Islam in one's character development.
MAS-ICNA has already begun preparation for next year's convention and encourages you to attend.