My Dear Sisters Assalamo Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahe Wa Barakaatohu! The past year (2008) has been a year of historical proportions! We witnessed the centenary celebrations of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyyat. We witnessed the end of 100 years and the beginning of another 100 years on May 27th 2008, when we pledged behind Huzoor to uphold the banner of Islam through our words and action. We witnessed the presence of Huzoor in USA at our auspicious Jalsa Salana. We held many events to talk about the blessings and significance of the Institution of Khilafat. If you recall, Huzoor (aba)’s first words of advice to the entire Jamaat (in 2003) were “Du'aon pay zaur dayn, du'aon pay zaur dayn, du'aon pay zaur dayn.” i.e., place great emphasis on prayers. Through out these 5 years, Huzoor has advised us to keep our focus on prayers. In a recent sermon given in Kerala, India on November 28, 2008, Huzoor reminded us that Khilafat is only promised to those who are righteous and free of any form of idolatry. Huzoor said that if we want this blessing to stay with us, then we must always keep the true purpose of our creation in mind. "I have not created the Jinn and men but that they may worship Me" (51:57). Huzoor said that every man, woman, young and old should remember that if they are lagging in observing Salat, then they will not be able to meet the standards prescribed to achieve the state of the righteous people. My Dear Sisters, let us start the New Year with a solemn promise to become more watchful over our Salat, so that our regularity in prayers becomes our shield from behaviors that take us away from Allah and His people. May Allah accept our humble effort as we strive to come closer to Him, Ameen.

A Publication of Lajna Imaillah

& Nasirat-ul-Ahmadiyya USA Lajna Matters

Special Features

• Correspondence

• Message from Sadr Lajna

• Majlis-e-Shura Report

• March Mentoring Meeting Announcement & Info

• New Ahmadis

• Talim Updates

• Lajna & Nasirat Highlights

• Announcements

Happy New Year! Happy New Year! Happy New Year!

Holy Qur’an And to Allah belongs the Kingdom of the heavens and the earth; and Allah has power over all things. (3:190) Have they a share in the kingdom? Then they would not give men even so much as the little hollow in the back of a date-stone. (4:54) And Allah has favoured some of you above others in worldly gifts. But those more favoured will not restore any part of their worldly gifts to those whom their right hands possess, so that they may be equal shares in them. Knowing this, will they still deny the favour of Allah? (16:72) Verily, Allah commands you to give over the trusts

to those entitled to them, and that, when you judge between men, you judge with justice. And surely, excellent is that with which Allah admonishes you. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. (4:59) Hadith Ibn Mas'ud relates that the Holy Prophetsaw said: Only two persons are worthy of being envied; a person upon whom Allah bestows riches and gives him the power to spend in a righteous cause; and a person upon whom Allah bestows wisdom by which he judges and which he teaches. (Bukhari and Muslim)

Writings of the Promised Messiahas Sympathy for all mankind is a moral obligation and a duty (Arbaeen) ...that religion is no religion which does not inculcate sympathy, nor does that man deserve to be called a man who does not have sympathy in him. (Message of peace) If you are an elder, be kind to the younger ones and do not belittle them. If you are rich, serve the poor but do not treat them with pride and disdain. If you wish God to be pleased with you, then be like two brothers born of one mother. (Kishti Nuh)

MESSAGE FROM SADR LAJNA, USA Dr. Shanaz Butt

18th Muharram 1430 Issue 1—2009 Jan 15th - Apr 15th 2009

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National Correspondence

May 25, 2008 I have received and read your letter dated 3rd May 2008, comprising of the February 2008 report for both the Lajna and Nasirat, as well as y o u r r e c e n t p u b l i c a t i o n , Jazakamullah. Your report demonstrates the efforts that are being made in many areas. This is apparent in Tabligh, where many contacts have been established, and two bai ’ats were achieved, MashaAllah. However, I am concerned by the low numbers (45%) who listen to the Friday sermon, as this is an important way for members to reinforce their link with Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya. Please take steps to ensure that this issue is remedied. The “Lajna Matters” magazine, is both informative and enjoyable and a credit to those who contribute to it, Masha Allah. The Nasirat have been also participating in Jamaat activities, however it would be beneficial if all regions would increase their Talim and Tarbiyyati events. May Allah bless this Jamaat and make it a prosperous one, Ameen. Please convey my Salaam to all the Lajna and Nasirat in USA. September 24, 2008 Thank you for highlighting the use/abuse of Internet by young Ahmadi girls who post their objectionable photos to different websites and the menace of a new trend of Tahir fans and Masroor fans taking roots within the Jamaat. This is a serious matter as such inclinations lead firstly to assessments between two Khulafa and then competition to who is better and who is not. Hazrat Masih Mauoodas as well as other Khulafa had during their time drawn attention to this contemptible inclination which is damaging

towards the unity of the Jamaat. In this context, the Holy Quran states: ‘Everyone acts according to his own way and your Lord knows full well who is the best guided.’ (Surah Bani-Israel 17:85) In the light of the above Ayat, we have no right to put tags on which Khalifa is or was better than the other, nor are we justified in evaluating in our everyday life. When Hazrat Khalifatul IVra was elected, he dedicated an entire Khutba to the above subject. It becomes evidently essential for you to curb these tendencies firmly, as their existence is contrary to the Tarbiyyati point of view. The importance of the current year demands stringent actions to prevent Lajna or any other auxiliary organization even the Jamaat as a whole , to involve in this controversial matter and become opinionated factions. Every measure should be taken to safeguard the Jamaat from damaging involvements of every kind. It is a different matter to bring into discussion a Khutba, a speech or a session, but to aim at comparison between two Khulafa or become a fan of one Khalifa and analyze the other, is not acceptable. This poses an adverse ground for the unity of Jamaat. In this context it is required of you to attend to this matter firmly. Do inform me of such people who are relentless and uncooperative together with their names, addresses and family backgrounds. With regards to your enquiry about the status of National Financial Secretary in the Shura Finance Committee, she will need to be n o m i n a t e d a n d d o e s n o t automatically become a leading figure during the Shura. As we savour the last remaining days of the blessed days of

Ramadhan, I extend my cordial Eid Mubarak to you and your Amla members. May this Eid usher in pleasant and wholesome changes that leave a long-lasting mark. Ameen October 7, 2008 Under the instructions of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, this circular is being sent to be acted upon by all Lajnaat, regarding Huzoor Aqdas address to Lajna at the occasion of Jalsa Salana Germany 2008. It is requested to emphasize that all Lajnaat should make arrangements to listen to this address again and again. In this comprehensive address Huzoor Ayadohullah Tallah has instructed Lajna not to misuse the media facilities and means of communication for un Islamic and preventable purposes, to protect your Ahmadi cultural values in foreign lands, concept of proper Purdah, status and sanctity of Ahmadi women and importance for their protection, the safeguarding of their matrimonial homes and the moral training of their children, actual progress of human beings and its levels, which is based on a true and strong link with God and firmly hold on to this belief so that the promise to bring about the true revolution which every Lajna member has made with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih is able to be fulfilled. Huzoor Aqdas said in his address by giving self confidence to ladies: “Every Ahmadi should remember that she must hold respect and purity for herself. An Ahmadi lady within her circle of freedom must remain within limits, stepping outside of these limits will harm her sanctity. Every Ahmadi woman should be aware of her identity and her high status. You no longer are

Letters from the Office of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba

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National Correspondence

ordinary women, because you have accepted the imam of the age. Now you are not among those who follow the worldly acquisitive ambitions and are influenced by materialistic pleasures. In spite of living in such an environment where moral degradation is openly displayed everywhere, you have distinction over others, and so it should be, because as I have explained earlier, you are the followers of the Imam of the Age. You have made a firm promise with him that you will live completely by following the teachings of the Holy Quran … you will be the source of bringing the spiritual revolution and that you will be ready to offer every sacrifice for bringing the world under the banner of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw. This is such an oath that no other woman has taken except for an Ahmadi woman. For the sake of Allah’s pleasure if you do not sacrifice worldly desires how else will you be able to fulfill your promise to bring about that revolution which is promised by you.” Huzoor Ayadohullah Tallah regarding the importance of Purdah said: An Ahmadi girl/woman is to safeguard her purity and must safeguard her chastity. This is not Pakistani culture but Islamic teachings, no matter if she is from German nation or any other European countries, if she is an Ahmadi woman from Pakistan or Asia or Africa there is one common feature among them and that she has to tread the path of righteousness and to safeguard her purity and chastity, only then will she be able to call herself an Ahmadi woman. The girls coming from Pakistan should particularly show an exemplary model of this behavior. We pray that Allah enables us to

follow the instruction of Huzoor Ayadohullah Tallah, and according to Huzoor’s guidance that we constantly access and make the necessary spiritual changes in ourselves. May Allah safeguard you and be with you at all times.

Office of the Private Secretary, In Charge Lajna Section

October 14, 2008 I have received and read your letter dated 10th September 2008 detailing the status of the Centenary Khilafat translation project, Jazak Allah. I am pleased to learn that the translation of Volumes I and II of ‘Alazhar azwatul Khumar’ by Hazrat Khalifa Sanirz has now been forwarded to the National Ameer Sahib USA. The work on ‘Al-Masabeeh’ by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIra together with my 40 sermons covering the period 2003-2005 is also in the final stages. I would like to commend you and your team for the hard work done and making such good progress on the work of translation. I pray that the task is successfully completed and may Allah reward the efforts of the translation team abundantly. November 1, 2008 I have received and read your report for the month of July 2008, Lajna Matters publication and a special report on children’s Khidmat-e-Khalq collection, Jazakamullah. Your report highlights the various activities held during the month, Mash Allah. It is pleasing to read that steady progress is being made in all shobas. According to your overall progress, statistics show that attention needs to be brought on conduction of Halqa meetings and meeting attendance. This is a vital structural part of your spiritual growth and needs to be improved.

Your report also indicates that less than half of your Tajnid watch Friday sermon on MTA, it is hoped members attention is drawn upon this aspect and the next report will be more encouraging, Insha Allah. It is pleasing to see the enthusiasm of the Nasirat in the collection of chanda donations for Khidmat-e-Khalq. May Allah bless the hard work gone into this noble cause and increase the Nasirat in their financial and spiritual rewards. May Allah enable you to strive further in the service of the Jamaat, Insha Allah. Please convey my Salaam to all Lajna and Nasirat in USA. November 28, 2008 I have received and read your report for the month of August 2008 and report on the Centenary Goals, dated 21st September 2008, Jazakamullah. It is pleasing to see that many act ivit ies were undertaken by Lajna Imaillah USA during this month, Masha Allah. This is particularly clear in the shoba of Khidmat-e-Khalq, where support was provided for the needy, including those outside of the Jamaat. May Allah aid you in all your sincere efforts and may He shower his continuous blessings on Lajna Imaillah USA, Insha Allah. Your report concerning the achievements of Lajna Imaillah USA in regards to the Khilafat Centenary Goals, demonstrates dedication from all Lajna sisters mentioned. May Allah Almighty accept the sincere efforts of these Lajna and bless them abundantly, Ameen. Please convey my Salaams to all Lajna and Nasirat in the USA.

Letters from the Office of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba

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National Correspondence

Letters from the Office of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba

Letter from Ameer Jamaat USA—Dr. Ahsanullah Zafar

I am writing to ask that members review the material in and about the book ‘The Jewel of Medina’ and write to the author Sherry Jones. She has included unflattering statements about Ummul-Momineen Hazrat Aisharz presenting them as if they were historical facts. Inaccurate depictions that insult people of any faith are offensive. We recognize that the Christians might look down on other faiths, including Islam. However, freedom of expression need not extend to offensive expression and writings, even if they may be insignificant to the majority of Americans and Europeans. If the feelings and hearts of every individual human being have sanctity and deserving of respect, it certainly should extend to an offense towards such a large number of men on this planet. Of course we condemn similar insults towards Jesus Christ as well, but are less effective since many Christians do not seem to make an issue of it. We have less of a right to insist that Christians should not be indifferent to aspersions upon Jesus Christas, but certainly are justified in expressing the pain we feel about any such insults on the Prophet Muhammadsaw and his family. I am including everyone on this letter, but the primary writing and communications to Ms. Jones should be by our women membership. This letter is addressed to Lajna, as well as to Majlis Sultanul Qalam, and the Missionaries and Presidents. Everyone needs to encourage a discussion in their homes as appropriate and letter writing by our wives, sisters, and mothers. (There is material on Wikipedia under the title of the book, you could buy the book as well). We all pray that Allah make our efforts fruitful and set the record straight, as well as prevent such depictions in the future, Insha Allah.

November 11, 2008 Sherry Jones’ novel, The Jewel of Medina has been printed by Beaufort Publishers. In the novel, Ummul Momineen Hazrat Aisha Siddiquarz has been greatly insulted. Ahmadi women should respond to this. A response should be written and sent immediately. And keep me abreast with your report, Jazakamullah Ahsanal Jaza.

Message from Media Watch Department In keeping with Huzoor’s directive, we are requesting you to write letters to the author explaining why freedom of speech does not mean that one should take religious figures and make a mockery out of them. T h e l e t t e r s s h o u l d b e e m a i l e d a t mediawatch@lajnausa.net for editing purposes. Once the letters have been edited, we will email them back to the authors who can then mail them to Ms. Sherry Jones. We will forward her address to the writers along with the edited letters. Please contact your Local Sadrs for a sample letter which can be used as a guide. Please treat this directive of Huzooraba as urgent and send responses by the end of February. If you have any questions please feel free to send an email at mediawatch@lajnausa.net. We sincerely hope that Lajna USA will come forward and do the Jihad of the Pen as instructed by the Promised Messiahas, Jazak Allah.

Shahina Bashir, Lajna Media Watch

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National Matters

Report from the Lajna Imaillah 2008 Majlis-e-Shura

Alhamdolillah, the Majlis-e-Shura 2008 was successfully held at Baitul Nasir Mosque in Groveport, OH from Oc-tober 10th—12th, 2008. The Shura sessions began after Friday prayer with formation of committees and concluded on Saturday with presentations by committees and silent prayers. While the committees of delegates discussed the Shura proposals, observers had an opportunity to meet with Respected Sadr Sahiba. Following the conclusion of the Shura session, national elections were held. Huzooraba asked Mrs. Mehdi from Canada to conduct the elec-tions of the National Sadr. During the non-Shura session on Saturday, National Tarbiyyat Secretary discussed Huzoor’s address to Germany Lajna (2008). Respected Sadr Sahiba handed out the annual awards to local Majaalis for the 2006—2007 year. During the final session on Sunday, presentations were prepared for members regarding Huzoor’s address to UK Lajna (2008) and “Fault finding in Jamaat”. National Talim Secretary gave a status report on achieving KCC goals. Updates were given on the Lajna Media Watch and members were made aware of attacks made on Islam and how members can respond to them. About 165 delegates and 30 observers attended the meeting. We are most grateful to Columbus Jamaat for their warm hospitality and cooperation in making this meeting possible. May Allah reward them abundantly, Ameen.

Message from Secretary Wasaya USA Dr. Khaled Ata Sahib

As we come to a close of a very historical year for us, our beloved Huzoor is sending us many reminders to renew our Pledge with Khilafat. One such way is through the system of Wasiyyat whereby we not only improve our-selves but also make a sincere effort to perpetuate the Ahmadiyya Khilafat through a better Tarbiyyat of our chil-dren. If you recall, Huzoor mentioned in his previous Qadian Jalsa address that 50% Lajnaat should become Moosiat. I urge you to continue to remind and encourage your membership of the goal set for us by Huzooraba. In regards to students (15 years and above), we try to encourage them to become Moosies for any minimal amount that they may be willing to pay. There is no fixed minimal amount prescribed by Markaz in the case of students. Please pray that we are able to meet our target, Ameen. Jazakamullah Ahsanal Jaza

Upcoming National Mentoring Meeting 2009 March 27th-29th, Masjid Baitul Samee, Houston, TX

The National Lajna Mentoring meeting will be held on March 27th—29th in Houston, TX. The goals of the mentoring meeting are to provide support and training to the Local Sadrs and Amila members, especially the newly elected Sadrs and new Amila members. Insha Allah, the meeting will provide a forum for questions, concerns and discussions regarding the new National Program (2009-2011) and the workings of Lajna Imaillah. Please make every effort to attend this informative meeting. JazakAllah to Dr. Nasir Tanauli Sahib, Jamaat President, Sister Nilofer Naeem, Lajna President and to the members of all Houston Majaalis in advance for their assistance and hospitality. PLEASE NOTE: Encourage your Amila members to attend if: They are new in the position of Talim, Tarbiyat, Tabligh, Khidmat-e-Khalq, Nasirat or Finance, and have not attended such a meeting in the past 3 years. Since 100% of the travel expenses for approved local amila members will have to be met by your local Finance budget, please make sure you have enough funds in your account before you submit your request. National Amila, Regional Sadrs, Local Sadrs and approved local Amila are requested to submit their registrations online at www.ahmadiyya.us/lajna by March 15, 2009. For any questions regarding registration please contact Sister Shehla Haider at Registrations@lajnausa.net. Please note that transportation will only be provided to and from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, TX. The program will start promptly after Juma and conclude on Sunday at 2 PM Insha Allah. For any questions regarding the meeting please contact Sister Samrah Ahmad at GeneralSecretary@lajnausa.net.

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National Matters

Self-Care for Health Maintaining health and wellbeing in our high speed culture can leave many feeling completely overwhelmed, used up and drowning in the unending demands of daily life. We are constantly in the “go mode”, drinking less water, eating unhealthy dead foods and sleeping less. Add the demands of family, child care, financial stresses and we have a mixture for anxiety and depression. The first step in restoring wellbeing is awareness. Once we are aware of a health need we have begun the process of moving toward healing. Self-Care is essential to good health. We can now easily access information through various print media, the internet, workshops and health practitioners. LISTEN TO YOUR “BODY TALK” and apply these simple Self-Care Practices for healthy outcomes. When you first have that thought, “I’m thirsty”…stop and drink water. By the time it registers to your brain you’re al-ready about 2 cups dehydrated. Our body fluids are comprised of about 70% water and we need to replenish it to main-tain a healthy balance. Researchers have shown that most of us are chronically dehydrated. Dehydration can produce headaches, fatigue, confusion, anxiety and depression and even death if severe enough. Drinking adequate amounts of water can reduce or eliminate these symptoms. Health practitioners advise to consume at least half of your body weight in ounces per day. Some attribute weight loss to adequate intake of water. The body talks and clearly communicates it needs. Train your self to listen to the language of your body and respond appropriately. Having two lovely 3 yr. old grand daughters reminds me to listen to my body talk. They’ve been taught to ask “body do you have to go potty?” It is amazing to watch how this little practice is helping them to pause and pay atten-tion to their body’s language. When the urge to eliminate arises it produces a kind of stress in the body. Stress produces tension and anxiety, stagnates and leeches precious energy from the body. Timely elimination helps the body to detoxify, balance and relax. Breathe… It seems like a no brainer to breathe, but often we forget to do it. Typically, we don’t intake enough good clean air to maintain a healthy balance in body, mind, emotions and spirit. Sedentary and high stress lifestyles result in using less lung capacity. Lack of oxygen in the body from shallow breathing can cause feelings of exhaustion, pain, stress, sad-ness and depression. While increased amounts of oxygen in the bloodstream greatly increases health status and sense of wellbeing. Creating symbol signals to remind you to breathe is a useful way to stay “awake” to a new practice. For exam-ple, while driving use all red lights to remind you to pause for a long slow inhale and exhale. Thoughts like, “I breathe in and calm my body, breathing out, I smile.” Doing this several times a day can greatly increase oxygen intake. Or use other reminders like Salat times. Symbol signals can work for instituting other healthy lifestyle practices as well.

All of the above are actions for Self-Care, disease prevention, increased longevity and joy in life. F. Noor Jawad

23rd West Coast Jalsa Salana 2008

Alhamdolillah! Silicon Valley Jamaat was extremely blessed to be able to host the 23rd West Coast Jalsa Salana 2008, on 28th and 29th of November at the Baitul Baseer Mosque. Lajna Silicon Valley is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this historic Khilafat Centenary event. This year, there were more than 274 Lajna members who attended the Jalsa Salana from Las Vegas, Phoenix, San Diego, LA East, LA West, Inland Empire, Sacramento, Bay Point, Oakland, San Francisco, Merced and Silicon Valley. The ladies session on Saturday was presided by Bushra Bajwa Sahiba, Regional President Southwest Region. Various speeches were presented: “Importance of Leadership in Islam”, “Pros and Cons of Internet”, “Islam and Our Responsibilities towards Community” and “Media Challenge and Manifestation of Our Allegiance to Faith”. By the grace of Allah and the cooperation of all the participants, the Jalsa was a success. Jazakamullah to all the members who made sacrifices to be the part of this spiritually enriching gathering. May Allah reward all the participants and volunteers and make them the recipients of the blessings of the prayers of the Promised Messiahas, Ameen.

Second Harvest Food Bank Awards a Gold Medal to Silicon Valley Majlis!

Second Harvest Food Bank, which is the largest food bank in Northern California is awarding the Silicon Valley Majlis with a Gold Award. The Food Bank provides food assistance to the needy families, children and seniors. This year, the Silicon Valley Majlis participated in a Campaign called "Share Your Lunch", which provides free lunches to the less fortunate children in public schools. By supplying meals to an average of 20,000 children per month, the Food Bank helped to feed hungry children, fostering both their health and academic growth. By the grace of God, the Lajna of this Majlis and some men participated and donated whole heartedly and supported to raise about $3,000. The Lajna have also had canned food drives at their Mosque for them. May Allah bless the efforts of the Silicon Valley Majlis and enable them to continue their services to humanity, Ameen.

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Welcome to our new sister! Crystal Washington

(Zion)

Talim Matters

Salat with Translation: 100% Achievement Region Majlis South East Research Triangle, Charlotte, Orlando East South West Tulsa Upstate North East Rochester West Mid West Oshkosh South Houston Cypress, Houston South, Dallas Central Washington DC North East Bronx, Brooklyn Mid North East North Jersey, Central Jersey, Willingboro South West LA East

KCC Prayers with Translation: 100% Achievement South East Charlotte, Orlando Upstate North East Rochester West Mid West Oshkosh South Houston Cypress, Houston South Central Washington DC Mid North East Willingboro, North Jersey, Central Jersey North East Brooklyn

Salat with Translation: 80% – 90% Achievement Region Majlis North West Portland, Seattle South West San Diego West Mid West Oshkosh, St. Paul South East Orlando, Georgia/South Carolina East Mid West Columbus, Cleveland East South West Alabama/Tennessee Upstate North East Fitchburg, Albany, Syracuse Central York/Harrisburg, South Virginia South Austin

South East Research Triangle Upstate North East Fitchburg, Albany

KCC Prayers with Translation: 80% - 90% Achievement

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KCC Goals for Salat and Prayers As Jamaat Ahmadiyya celebrated 100 blessed years of the institution of Khilafat, we the Lajna Imaillah USA set a few goals for ourselves. Under the Talim program, the two goals were to: Learn the complete Salat with translation as well as to understand the

meaning and importance of Salat. Memorize the Khilafat Centenary Celebration prayers and to say them

regularly as advised by our Huzooraba. Thus far, the following Lajnaat have reported that 100% of their members have achieved these Salat & KCC prayers goals.

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Majaalis Highlights Ayesha Magazine

Please look for the new issue of Ayesha Magazine on the Khilafat Centenary Celebration in circulation now for your membership and for sharing with friends and colleagues! We are looking for articles for the next issue which will be on the theme: 2008 Election Issues: An Islamic Perspective. This issue will look at the Islamic teachings on some of the hot topics of the 2008 election such as war, the environment, the economic crisis, moral leadership, race relations, education, etc. Please submit speeches, articles, letters to the editor and other writings by March 1st, 2009 to:

Ruqaiya Asad—Editor Ayesha Magazine 8721 Doctor Baxter Road

Frederick, MD 21701 Ayesha@lajnausa.net

Jazak Allah for your contributions!

Lajna Highlights July — September 2008

Meetings

Tajnid as of September 2008: 3,844 Total number of meetings held: 224 Average attendance: 35% Total number of Halqa meetings: 137 Monthly reports received: 98%

Tabligh

# of Bai’ats obtained: 3 Alhamdolillah! Pittsburgh 1 Zion 1 Long Island 1

Outreach (Number of People/Guests)

People under one-to-one Tabligh: 1,837 Needy served outside the Jamaat: 2,170 Needy Lajna served: 1,369

Average percentage of members active in

Daee Ilallah Committee: 342/month Khidmat-e-Khalq: 1024/month Listening to Khutba/MTA: 44% Learning Qur’an Nazira: 10%

Congratulations to: Chapters that consistently had meetings attendance >50% from July - September 2008: Willingboro, Bay Point, Sacramento, Alabama/Tennessee, Las Vegas, San Diego, Washington DC Chapters that consistently listened to Huzoor's Friday Sermons >75% from July - September 2008: Willingboro, Bay Point, Sacramento, Al/TN, Las Vegas, San Diego, Washington DC Chapter that achieved 100% Qur'an Nazira participation from July - September 2008- Austin

Showcase your talent

Web Designers, Movie Makers, Programmers

Get Started

Email GeneralSecretary@lajnausa.net

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Financial Matters Tehrik-e-Jadid Report 2007 – 2008

Alhamdolillah Lajna Imaillah collected $244,416 this year. May Allah bless all Lajna and Nasirat for their sacri-fices towards Tehrik-e-Jadid and enable them to collect more in the years to come, Ameen.

Message from Tehrik-e-Jadid Secretary I pray that 2009 will be a blessed year for you all. May Allah enable us to meet all the expectations of our beloved Huzooraba and serve the Jamaat to the best of our abilities. As you know, the new Tehrik-e-Jadid year began on November 1st, 2008. Please remind your local TJ secretaries to start collecting pledges for this year if they have not already done so. Our goal is to have 100% participation in every Majlis, please assist your secretaries to reach this target in your Lajna. The January Issue of Caravan-e-Islam, the Tehrik-e-Jadid newsletter is available at the following link: http://www.turnpagepro.com/doc/Caravan/vol_1_issue_2b/2009010201/. Please encourage all your members to read it, it has much interesting information pertaining to the scheme of Tehrik-e-Jadid, Jazakamullah.

Message from Waqf-e-Jadid Secretary This is a request for every Lajna Majlis to aim for 100% participation in the blessed scheme of Waqf-e-Jadid. Re-mind your members to pay their pledges for 2009 as soon as possible, so that they do not feel too much pressure at the end of the year to pay it. Try to complete as much collection as possible by August, Jazakamullah.

From the Desk of National Finance Secretary for Local Sadrs

This is a reminder that your Income and Expense Budget and year-end report was due on October 31, 2008. Please submit the following items ASAP in case you did not get a chance to submit it yet. Thanks to those of you who al-ready submitted their reports on time. Items due includes: Income & Expense Actuals for FY 2007-2008 Income & Expense Budget for FY 2008-2009 Bank Reconciliation Report '07-'08 Bank Statement (Ending date of statement is 9/30/08)

Please email your questions to (Maal@lajnausa.net and FinanceIncome@lajnausa.net). The mailing address to send your report: Booshra Ahmed, 1511 Copperplate Road, Charlotte, NC 28262

116,154

163,967 166,631

216,819 222,870 232,752

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0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

300,000

40/46 Majaalis

40/47 Majaalis

49/49 Majaalis

58/58 Majaalis

63/63 Majaalis

62/63 Majaalis

67/67 Majaalis

67/67 Majaalis

2000-2001

2001-2002

2002-2003

2003-2004

2004-2005

2005-2006

2006-2007

2007-2008

Collection Amount ($)

Year

Tehrik-e-Jadid Growth

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National Amila

Departments Approved Officers Sadr Shanaz Butt Naib Sadr 1 Amtul Hai Ahmad Naib Sadr 2 Bushra Hanif General Secretary Samrah Ahmad Assistant GS Hala Khurram Muavina Sadr 1 Sabiha Syeda Muavina Sadr 2 Sameea Saifi Muavina Sadr 3 Amtul Musawir Ahmad Talim Mubarika Shah Tarbiyat Saliha Malik Tabligh Dhiya Bakr Khidmat-e-Khalq Kishwar Tahir Tarbiyat New Ahmadis Rifat Wali Nasirat Laeeqa Mirza Tajnid Shehla Haider Maal Booshra Ahmad Tehrik-e-Jadid Aziza Rahman Waqf-e-Jadid Shazia Sohail Ishaat Asma Siddiqui Sanat-o-Dastakari Ansa Rahmatullah Sihat-e-Jismani Tahira Khalid Muhasiba Maal Tamara Rodney Ziafat Ruqaiya Asad Media Watch Shahina Bashir Honorary - IT and Website Mabroor Jattala Honorary - Lajna History Tanvir Ahmad Honorary - Translation Sadiqa Mian Honorary - Advisor Salma Ghani Honorary - Advisor Sahibzadi A. Qayyum Honorary - Advisor Sahibzadi A. Rasheed Honorary - Advisor Aliyyah Shaheed

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Regional & Local Sadrs Upstate North East - Najma Mehmud • Rochester: Amtul Noor Haleem • Syracuse: Amtul Baseer Nasir • Buffalo: Tehmina Rehman • Boston: Sadka Ahmad • Fitchburg: Faqieha Chaudhry • Hartford: Shahida Ahmad • Albany: Tahira Khan

North West - Hena Malik • Bay Point: Umber Shah • Oakland: Mansoora Zaeem • Sacramento: Nusrat Begum • Merced: Amina Afzal • Silicon Valley: Samar Munir • Portland: Nusrat Shamim Ahmad • Seattle: Amtul Basit

Mid North East - Rizwana Khokhar • Philadelphia: Nusrat Bashir • Willingboro: Shaukat Syed • North Jersey: Shamim Sheikh • Central Jersey: Ayesha Khan

North East - Bushra Butt • Long Island: Fehmida Ahmad • Queens: Farkhanda Ahmad • Brooklyn: Salima Ahmad • Bronx: Amtul Rasheed Cheema

East Mid West - Nudrat Malik • Cleveland: Mariam Sadia Shah • Columbus: Shazia Ahmad • Dayton: Rehmat Hakeem • Indiana: Saba Ahmad • Pittsburgh: Mehdia Sana Tariq • Detroit: Humaira Ahmad • Toledo: Sana Malik

South West - Bushra Bajwa • Los Angeles East: Amtul Mujeeb

Chaudhry • Los Angeles West: Nadia Malik • San Diego: Sadaf Ijaz • Phoenix: Misbah Rasheed • Tucson: Naushaba Anjum Qureshi • Las Vegas: Malika Munnazza • LA Inland Empire: Mubarika Sadiq

South Mid West - Amtul Musawir Ahmad • St. Louis: Amina Aziz-Bass • Tulsa: Razia Tasnim • Kansas: Tahira Rehman • Denver: Bushra Inam • Tennessee/Alabama: Faiza Rehman

South East - Khalida Moinuddin • Charlotte: Rashida Faizi • Research Triangle: Najmi Azam • Georgia/South Carolina: Mahmooda Reh-

man • Miami: Danneil Ollivierre • Orlando: Roohul Amin Rehman

South - Namoode Seher Rahman • New Orleans: Azra Safeer Ahmad • Austin: Aziza Farouqi • Dallas: Tayyaba Bashir • Houston North: Nilofar Naeem • Houston South: Bushra Jameel • Cypress Houston: Nusrat Dawood

West Mid West - Amtul Ahmad • Chicago East: Nusrat Shareef • Chicago West: Yasmeen Qazi • Zion: Nadia Shams • St. Paul: Hifza Hayee • Milwaukee: Shahina Munir • Oshkosh: Amtul Wakeel Sara

Central - Naseerah Bhatti • Silver Spring: Asiya Mehmood • Potomac: Tazeen Ahmad • Laurel: Aziza Rana • Virginia Central: Farhana Fouzia • Virginia North: Aasima Malik • Virginia South: Nausheen Tehmina • Baltimore: Bushra Fouzi • York/Harrisburg: Farzana Safiullah • Washington DC: Samina Mariam

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Nasirat Matters

Hagia Sophia is a former Byzantine church and former Ottoman mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. Now a museum, Hagia Sophia is universally acknowledged as one of the great buildings of the world.

Salat Word Search P B A P D N S S Q K A Z M E R Y T Z C D J Q W F K T Y T I H M O E S S P A H R W G N V G U T R B S D S V R A Z W S O F A H A D J A S L I G Q A Z H L J N B W G U R N R J O A B R U R E J U A P S E I K U B B E E A G S E A L X Y Z T V Q E T T T A A T S M F W T C K J Z B D J M H R A V I D U K W A D Y N X X G I A Q H J M A Q Q V H M C V A N A X P H R U P H A E O A A B A A K X A L Y M I X H K S Q W U D U L R B J N C C H A Y U K G E I N Z R L R S C L C J Q O S A S A J A R O L O G S Q M U E Z Z I N R A H W U M M U O B P M M U D Y C T I W C J Y I O W Y I K X P B K Y M L T A K B I R A G T R M S O U L B A Q J T Q Y S W O R R F T A S Q L R N W M I O S I Y Z H W B I D M C F H K S O S Q L A N O I T A G E R G N O C L I A I M C F M T Q N B W R O I D E L L M A P B K G L G S V O T V W K K L K V G X M N U V H ADHAN, AL FATIHAH, ASR, CONGREGATIONAL, FAJR, IMAM, IQAMAT, ISHA, JUMA, KAABA, KIBLA, MAGHRIB, MOSQUE, MUEZZIN, NIYYAT, ROWS, RUKU, SAJDAH, SALAAM, SALAT, TAKBIR, TARAVEE, TASBEE, WITR, WORSHIP, WUDU, ZUHR

Syllabus News!

☺ Handicraft—Use some of the activities in school art classes in your Nasirat class

☺ Friday Sermons—Listen to the Friday sermon and write down a few things that Nasirat can do to follow the directives of Huzooraba

☺ Tabligh—Write down a list of fun things that you have done in your Nasirat classes and ask the Nasirat to share with non-Ahmadi friends

☺ Extra-Curricular Activities—Find local museums, pottery studios, or nature centers that Nasirat would like to visit for an outing and plan for this event.

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Nasirat Matters Test your Knowledge

According to the Holy Qur’an who was the first prophet of Allah? Who was the being that refused to submit to Prophet Adamas? Adamas was the first prophet of Allah according to the Holy Qur’an. When Allah made him a prophet, He asked his angels to help him in his mission. All of the angels agreed. The Angels are created in such a way that they are not able to re-fuse Allah ‘s command. They always do as they are told. But not all of Allah’s creation has been made this way. For instance, Allah has given man the choice to follow good or evil. He can do whatever he wants. He can obey Allah or he can disobey Allah. This is called a free will. Man has a free will but Angels do not. Allah has also made another creation called the Jinn. Like man, this creation also has a free will. In the second question, the being that refused to help Adam, is named Iblis. He, belongs to the category of beings called Jinn. Iblis disobeyed Allah. He did not want to help Prophet Adam. He refused because he felt that he was a better creation than Adam. He was very arrogant. Because of his disobedience, Allah was very angry with him. He told him to leave. But Iblis begged Allah to listen to him. He told Allah that he believed he could lead man away from the right path by his evil influence. He knew that Allah had created man with a free will and for this reason he could tempt people to follow the wrong path. He further said that most of Allah’s creation would be ungrateful to Him and for this reason, his evil influence would work. Allah gave him this opportunity and said that he would not be able to turn his chosen or righteous servants away from the right path. Since the prophet hood of Adam (as), until the Day of Judgment, Iblis has been given permission to do his best to mislead people but he will never be able to misguide those who have a strong relationship with Allah. There are some lessons in this incidence that Nasirat can learn. First, we should make every effort to understand the difference between good and evil ways. This way, when we are free to make our own choices, we can choose the good things. When we start making good choices that please Allah, we are less likely to be influenced by the bad and evil things that exist in our world. Also, we should always pray to Allah, for guidance and help so that He will also help us to make the right choices and then follow them in a manner that pleases Him. We should also pray to become Allah’s righteous servants so that we are always under the influence of angels or goodness and free from falling into evil ways.

A Website for Atfal and Parents Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya USA (MAA USA) recently underwent some significant developments to the their website geared towards increased functionality, a fresh new look, and an appealing multi-faceted interface for Atfal and Parents. Besides the new face, the website offers the complete Atfal religious education syllabus and resources for parents designed to help teach kids at home. Kids can play games, do puzzles, coloring and practice their Yassarnal Quran which is available in video format. Through this website we hope to keep parents informed of the current religious education syllabus, new initiatives and events related to Atfal (i.e. National Atfal Ijtema & camp). We request that you v i s i t t h e n e w A t f a l w e b s i t e www.mkausa.org/atfalusa regularly and utilize the resources available online. You can sign up to receive the Tifl Post at tiflpost@mkausa.org so we can keep you up to date on the latest changes and activities for Atfal, Jazakamullah.

Muhtamim Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya, USA

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Local Matters

MKA-Atfal site: Link and some description for parents

Children’s Khidmat-e-Khalq Collection For the past 8 years, Nasirat-ul-Ahmadiyya USA have been donating generously to collect money for an Eid Gift for children in a country where they may be in financial need or suffering persecution. In 2002, a total of $11,500.00

was collected from Nasirat, Atfal and Lajna of Jamaat USA and sent as a gift for the Children of Ivory Coast. In 2003, $11,000 was collected and sent for the Children

of Sierra Leone. In 2004, $12,050 was collected from and sent for the

Children of Benin. In 2005, $20,000 was collected and sent for the Children

of Qadian, Ghana and Muzaffarabad. In 2006, $15,000 was collected and sent for the Children

of Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. In 2007, $21,000 was collected and sent for the Children

of Qadian, Indonesia and Bangladesh. In 2008, $15,000 was collected and sent for the Children

of Qadian and Palestine. We pray that these humble gifts from our children to their children will add some more joy and comfort for these families, Insha Allah. May Allah reward our children’s efforts and sacrifice, Ameen.

AMMA Conference Calls Please join for important advice and recent information by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Medical Association (AMMA) in its conference call series dedicated to premedical and medical students. Physicians and medical students share their experiences with more junior students and grade school students which is followed by an open question and answer session. Students & Professionals of all ages are encouraged to participate, Jazakamullah. Calls will be held on the following dates at 8PM EST: Feb 2, March 2, April 6, May 4, June 1, 2009.

Phone Number: (309) 946-5000 Access Code: D-O-C-T-O-R (362867)

Professional Volunteers Needed! Lajna USA is creating a resource guide to assist the general membership in the areas of health, legal, social services, counseling, etc. We need more volunteers who have expertise in law and social work, including counselors for domestic violence, physical and emotional abuse, marital & immigration issues.

If you are willing to donate a few hours a week, please submit your names with contact information to the following email address: khidmatekhalq@lajnausa.net Jazak Allah. We look forward to hearing from you.

National Secretary Khidmat-e-Khalq

Translation of Huzoor’s Letter October 6, 2008 I have received your fax regarding the $10,000 Eid Gift for the children of Qadian from Lajna Imaillah USA, Jazakamullah Ahsanal Jaza. I have included this sum in the other Eid funds to be sent to Qadian. May Allah bless Lajna Imaillah USA with his choicest blessings.

Tajnid Vortex Inshallah Lajna USA will be utilizing a Tajnid portal system. This new portal system will: Reduce cost, time & resources spent in updating

Tajnid records at Local & National level Enable Local Sadrs/Tajnid secretaries to make real-

time updates regarding members quickly and easily. This will ensure proper delivery of correspondence

Electronically disperse various publications, announcements & directives through email addresses provided

Welcome members who join/move to a Majlis Provide a central database of talent, resources &

needs of membership so that programs can be catered accordingly

Please contact you Local Sadrs ASAP with your updated contact information, educational/professional background and answers to additional questions from Tajnid Portal. Members will receive confirmation for updating their information. If a confirmation is not received by March 16th, 2009 please remember to contact your Local Sadr, Jazakamullah.

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Mark your Calendars Department National Officer Deadlines

National Mentoring Meeting March 27-29th http://www.ahmadiyya.usa/lajna Registration due by

March 15th Media Watch Responses to Book by Ms. Sherry Jones Mediawatch@lajnausa.net ASAP

Tajnid Portal Sister Shehla Haider March 15th

Lajna Monthly Reports Sendreports@lajnausa.net & Regional Presidents 10th of the following month

Nasirat Monthly Reports Nasiratreporting@lajnausa.net & Regional Presidents 10th of the following month

Lajna Matters has enjoyed almost 8 years of publication. It has become a regular quarterly publication and has evolved through many changes based on the needs of the time. MashaAllah, due to the amazing growth we have seen within Lajna Imaillah-USA, we have tried to come up with more efficient ways to provide you with a snapshot of what is happening around the country. We hope that you will enjoy reading the newsletter. Your feedback and input is greatly appreciated. The Lajna Matters team would like to thank all those who have sent timely announcements for this issue. We look forward to your contributions and feedback for the April 2 0 0 9 i s s u e b y M a r c h 1 0 t h , 2 0 0 9 t o lajnamatters@lajnausa.net.

Editors: Asma Siddiqui, Samrah Ahmad

Managing Editor: Dr. Shanaz Butt

Publisher: Fazl-e-Umar Press

Chauncey, OH

Lajna Matters is a quarterly publication and is mailed to all regular chanda-paying members. If you are not receiving the newsletter, please contact:

Lajnamatters@lajnausa.net and cc: Tajnid@lajnausa.net

The editorial board reserves the right to use their discretion in editing &

publishing any information.

We wish a Joyous New Year to all of you and humbly request your prayers.

REQUEST FOR PRAYERS Respected Huzooraba & family

Respected Ameer Sahib & family

Sister Salma Ghani & family

Sister Aliyyah Shaheed

Sister Nusrat Zain-ul-Abedin

Sister Bushra Mirza & family

Sister Tahira Shahid & family

EDITOR’S DESK

ANNOUNCEMENTS Sister Manahil Shahnawaz (Silicon Valley) was blessed with a

daughter, Inaya Noor Bajwa Sister Rafia Chaudhry (Silicon Valley) was blessed with a

daughter, Ameena Rayyan Haque Sister Mubarka & Nasir Shams (Zion) were blessed with a

daughter, Mehrosh Mubarka Shams Sister Suriyya & Junayd Latif (Zion) were blessed with a daughter

& a son, Asifah Amatul Latif & Kashif Abdul Latif Sister Ayesha Mensah & Ishmael Ahmad (St. Louis) were blessed

with a daughter Munirah Suhaylah Naairah Ahmad Samrah Khalid, daughter of Sister Tahira Khalid, married to Asif

Rana Shafiq Maidah Khalid, also daughter of Sister Tahira Khalid, married to

Nasar Agha Sumaiyah Bayan-Darr (Zion) 5th grader, scored 97% among

national 5th graders on the Star Reading Exam and reads at a 10th grade level

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A quarterly publication of Lajna Imaillah, USA An Auxiliary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

Views expressed in this publication are not

necessarily the views of The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

E-mail: lajnamatters@yahoo.com

Lajna Matters Lajna Matters Printed and Distributed by Fazl-I-Umar Press Chauncey, Ohio 45719

Proposed Jamaat Calendar

Start Finish Activity Type Level 3/27/2009 3/29/2009 Lajna Imaillah-Mentoring Meeting 2009 (Houston) Aux National

4/24/09 4/26/09 Jamaat Majlise Shura Jamaat BRM

6/19/2009 6/21/2009 Jalsa Salana, USA Jamaat National

6/26/2009 6/28/2009 Jalsa Salana, Canada Jamaat Canada

7/24/2009 7/26/2009 Jalsa Salana UK (Expected) Jamaat International

8/22/2009 9/19/2009 Ramadhan-u-l Mubarak Jamaat National

9/20/2009 9/20/2009 Eid-ul Fitr Local Jamaat National

10/30/2009 11/1/2009 Lajna Majlis-e-Shura 2009 Aux National

11/20/2009 11/22/2009 Jalsa Salana West Coast Jamaat National

11/272009 11/27/2009 Eidul Adhia Jamaat National