This Friday, just like last week, we are honoured to welcome a guest in Manchester. Our guest is a Friday prayer leader with experience serving in various cities across the UK and a background in religious propagation in multiple countries.

Hujjatul Islam wal Muslimeen Syed Fida Hussain Bukhari has many years of experience in the UK. An interview with him contains further valuable insights, and we invite you to read it.

1. To what extent have you been active in leading Friday prayers, and in which countries and cities have you served as a Friday prayer leader?

I have served as a Friday prayer leader (Imam-e-Jumuah) in both Pakistan and the United Kingdom. In the UK, I have led Friday prayers in various cities including Blackburn (Islamic Centre of Blackburn), Bristol (Hosseinieh Foundation Bristol), Manchester (Al-Hussain Masjid), Bolton (Markaz-e-Ahlebait Bolton), and Liverpool (Towhid Centre, Liverpool).

In addition to these long-term responsibilities, I have also led Friday prayers during my religious propagation travels in countries like Germany, Australia, and other places during the months of Ramadan, Muharram, and so on.

2. What new developments did you introduce during your tenure as a Friday prayer leader that could serve as a model for other imams?

I do not claim to have introduced any developments myself. The true assessment of my work and its impact should be left to the attendees and community members. However, I have always emphasized the importance of addressing issues concerning the Islamic world and social matters during the sermons. I strongly believe that the Friday pulpit is the primary platform for raising the concerns and aspirations of the Muslim Ummah.

The most important issues today are social issues that Muslims face daily in the West, such as education, migration, marriage and divorce, child upbringing, digital space, Western media, and psychological warfare. At the same time, cultural and religious matters are no less at risk and must also be addressed.

3. Have you authored any religious books or works?

Yes, I have authored a book titled “Ma’arifat ke Phool” which discusses topics such as the characteristics of the Qur’an, the Prophet of humanity, the lessons and messages of Karbala, the lives of the Ma’sumeen (Infallibles), and other topics such as miracles, intercession, and raj‘at (return).

I have also written religious articles on subjects including:

• The Qualities and Responsibilities of Shia
• Ijtihad
• Mahdism and the Salvation of Humanity
• The Greatness of the Qur’an
• Compilation of the Qur’an
• The Seal of the Prophets
• The Prophet’s Mi’raj
• Tawhid and the Attributes of Allah
• Youth Upbringing and Our Responsibilities
• The Concept of Wilayah and Wilayat-e-Faqih
• The Role of the Mosque in Islam

And other related topics.

4. So, these writings themselves are part of your contributions, even though you humbly downplayed them. If you could return to your youth, would you take on the responsibility of leading Friday prayers again? Why?

Yes, if Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) were to bless me again with the strength and health of youth, I would certainly accept the responsibility of leading Friday prayers once more.

This is because establishing prayer provides an excellent platform for social reform and for inviting people toward Allah. The importance of Friday prayer is emphasized in Surah Al-Jumu‘ah, where Allah says:

“O you who believe! When the call is made for prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off trade. That is better for you, if only you knew.”

(Qur’an 62:9)

5. What practical methods do you suggest encouraging people to attend Friday prayers?

To increase attendance at Friday prayers, the Imam should build strong relationships with the community, especially the youth. The topics discussed should be relevant, educational, inspiring, and address both local and global issues.

Maintaining a strict and consistent schedule is important so people do not become discouraged. If possible, the sermon should be delivered in English to better connect with younger generations. In addition to the Friday prayers, efforts should be made to strengthen community-building through social initiatives and Thursday night programs.

6. What qualities should a successful Friday prayer leader possess?

I believe a successful Friday prayer leader (Imam-e-Jumuah) must have the following eight qualities:

1. Profound Knowledge of Islam

To deliver wise and accurate sermons, the Imam must have deep understanding of the Qur’an, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence.

2. Sincerity and Piety (Taqwa)

The Imam must lead with God-consciousness and pure intentions.

3. Strong Communication Skills

The ability to effectively convey the message of the Ahlulbayt in a way that inspires and impacts the audience.

4. Awareness of Social Issues

Keeping informed about both local and global matters to engage in constructive, relevant discussions.

5. Effective Community Engagement

Building positive and meaningful relationships within the community to ensure the message is well received.

6. Justice and Fairness

The Imam must be just and impartial in all his dealings.

7. Good Moral Character

The Imam should embody the very teachings he preaches through his actions and conduct.

8. Organizational and Planning Skills

The Imam should be organized and strategic in preparing sermons, aligning them with long-term community goals and the mission of preparing for the reappearance of Imam Al-Mahdi (aj).