Media Release: ICPA celebrates the new Hijri year – 1441 and the return of pilgrims from Hajj

The Islamic Charitable projects association (ICPA) held the new Hijri year celebration 1441 at Al Amanah College Grand Hall Liverpool – Sydney for its community. The occasion was attended by a number of distinguished sheikhs, pilgrims returning from Hajj, community leaders and a large number of families. Following the official opening welcome, the celebration began with a recitation of the holy Quran followed by captivating chants performed by the ICPA chanting band.

His eminence Sheikh Ibrahim El-Shafie delivered a speech stating: When the harm toward the prophet and his companions by the non-believers in Makah increased and the spread of Islam in Al Madinah became apparent, the companions complained to the prophet about the harm endured and sought his permission to immigrate to Al-Madinah. The prophet gave them permission to immigrate. All those who feared misguidance immigrated as Muslims began to immigrate in masses in obedience to Allah. The Ansar supported them upon their arrival to Al-Madinah. Meanwhile, only our beloved prophet peace be upon him, our master Abu Bakr, our master Aliyy and those who were imprisoned or too sick to travel remained in Makkah. One day, at the noon time the prophet arrived at the house of our master Abu Bakr and informed him that he has been given permission to immigrate to Al Madinah. Abu Bakr asked if he could accompany him and the prophet agreed. Abu Bakr cried out of happiness. Then they rode their camels until they reached the cave of Thawr, which they entered. Two wild birds made their nests and a spider weaved its web at the entrance of the cave. The non-believers of Quraysh sought further to capture the prophet and offered 100 camels for anyone who leads to his capture. Until they arrived at the cave and Abu Bakr said, “If one of them was to look down at his feet he would see us”. The prophet informed Abu Bakr not to worry for indeed Allah will protect them.

Hajj Mohammad Mehio, president of the ICPA – Australia alongside his eminence Sheikh Ibrahim El-Shafie congratulated all those who performed pilgrimage (Hajj) asking Allah to accept their good deeds. The celebration concluded with the handing out of sweets, deserts and memorial gifts to those who performed Hajj.