VOICES: For 2025, we pray for peace and ease within our communities

Janna Azzam is Muslimah Representative for the the University of Dayton Muslim Student Association. Khadija Fatima is the President of the University of Dayton Dayton Muslim Student Association.  (CONTRIBUTED)

Janna Azzam is Muslimah Representative for the the University of Dayton Muslim Student Association. Khadija Fatima is the President of the University of Dayton Dayton Muslim Student Association. (CONTRIBUTED)

As we bid farewell to the year, we take a moment to reflect and say, Alhamdulillah, This past year has been a journey filled with hope, guidance, and growth. It was a year like no other, one where we confidently affirmed our place in the community as young Muslims. Time and again, we were blessed with opportunities to share our faith, and each time, we were met with warmth and acceptance. These moments allowed us to nurture interfaith relationships and collaborations, teaching us the value of listening and embracing new knowledge to foster a true safe space.

In 2024, we came together, shoulder to shoulder, in solidarity for humanity. During times of uncertainty and turmoil, our community united for charity, prayer, and brotherhood. These experiences taught us the importance of holding firmly onto our faith, and deepened our understanding of patience, steadfastness, and the power of prayer. Little by little, we witnessed our community making significant strides towards peace and justice.

We are especially grateful to our Dayton family, whose unwavering support has been a guiding light as we balanced our identity with our role in promoting peace. We also extend out heartfelt thanks to our campus community for providing a safe space where we could learn and grow without compromising who we are. This support has been transformative for our youth, offering them invaluable lessons as they navigate the world around them. Inspired by the events and efforts of the past year, we are confident that they will rise with a strong sense of self and purpose.

As 2024 draws to a close, we celebrate the interconnectedness we have built among diverse communities, united by a shared goal of peace and equality. Looking ahead to 2025, we pray for peace and ease within our communities. For continued blessings, tranquility, and prosperity. We ask Allah (swt) to keep our community united and resilient in the face of challenges. Let us each take time for prayer, reflection, and renewal as we embark on a new year.

In 2025, we remain hopeful for even stronger bonds between communities, for a continued flourishing of interfaith collaboration, and for our youth to grow into confident, proud individuals. We aspire to give back, to stand as pillars of support for those in need, just as others have done for us. As young student faith leaders, we recognize the responsibility we carry and the influence we wield. We pray our actions always reflect the essence of our faith. With a renewed understanding of patience, justice, and steadfastness, we commit to promoting peace and harmony in the coming year. May 2025 be a year of growth, learning, and mercy for all. Let us embrace our faith as a source of inspiration and strength, and Insha’Allah, together we will move forward with hope and determination.

Janna Azzam is Muslimah Representative for the the University of Dayton Muslim Student Association. Khadija Fatima is the President of the University of Dayton Dayton Muslim Student Association.

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