The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association at the Mahmood Mosque, in Adelaide, Australia, held a celebration to highlight unity, diversity, and service on Saturday 25 January, 2025. The gathering took place on the eve of Australia Day.
The event brought together community leaders, young voices, and representatives of various faiths, including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to reflect on the values that bind Australians and people of faith.
The celebration included a heartfelt blessing from local Aboriginal Kaurna Elder, Uncle Moogy, who graciously shared his wisdom and welcomed everyone to Kaurna Country. His presence reminded everyone of the deep spiritual heritage of the land and the importance of honouring its First Peoples.
Adelaide Interfaith Australia Day
Imam Kamran Tahir, Uncle Moogy, and Adriana Christopoulos greet a guest at the celebration.© 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.Dr. Munawar Rana, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, spoke passionately about the power of interfaith dialogue to foster peace, justice, love, and diversity. He extended a hand of friendship, offering the community’s support in any future service opportunities.
Adelaide Interfaith Australia Day
Dr. Munawar Rana, president of the Ahymadiyya Muslim Community, Emily Ellis, and Michael Ellis enjoy time together at the Interfaith celebration.© 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.Eight-year-old Aaniya, a member of Nasiratul (Ahmadiyya Muslim Auxiliary for girls aged 7 – 15), shared a touching reflection on her experiences as a young Australian. She expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by both her faith and her country, saying, “I love how everyone is so different, but we fit in together.”
Mayor Angela Evans of the City of Charles Sturt, said, “Australia Day helps us remember that there are more things that connect us than divide us. We can act in harmony while still retaining individuality.”
Adriana Christopoulos, a community diversity leader, said, “Australia is a tapestry, and diversity is not a challenge, but one of our greatest strengths.”
Adelaide Interfaith Australia Day
Imam Kamran Tahir and Uncle Moogy greet a guest at the Interfaith day.© 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.Michael Ellis, who represented the Church of Jesus Christ at the event, said, “The teachings shared by the attendees echo the words of Jesus Christ, who taught us to love God and our neighbours as ourselves.”
“This event served as a reminder that we are all invited to do good among the children of men, to love our neighbours, and to work together in harmony. By joining hands with our Muslim friends and others in the community, we can build a future rooted in peace, service, and mutual respect.”