For 50 years now, oldest Shia centre in UK strives to establish Shia community inspired by Ahlulbayt’s values
Al-Abbas Islamic Center in the United Kingdom considers the establishment of a vibrant spiritual community based on the values and practices of true Shia Islamic faith as one of its main missions since its founding in 1973.
The centre stated on its official website, viewed by Shia Waves Agency, that it “has been working for 50 years to establish a vibrant spiritual community based on the values and practices of true Shia faith, by developing the capabilities of its members and engaging with the wider community.”
It further mentioned that this mission was undertaken to meet the needs of the Shia communities that have increased in number due to migrations to the UK in recent decades.
The centre highlighted that its early beginnings and the establishment of religious, cultural activities, and rituals of Ahlulbayt, peace be upon them, were initially held inside the residence of Shia believers in Birmingham. This is where the idea to establish the center in 1973 was emerged.
It added that the numbers of Shia Muslims have gradually increased, leading to large gatherings throughout the year to commemorate and honor Imam Hussein’s rituals.
Many elderly individuals still fondly remember those days, witnessing the birth of this centre and feeling proud of their contribution to its establishment and development.
The centre mentioned that in recent years, new ideas have emerged to expand the activities of the centre, including the construction of Hussainiyyas and mosques to bring Shia believers together.
