There’s an urgent need for more Muslim foster carers in Brighton & Hove. Many children and young people in care come from Muslim backgrounds, and having foster carers who share their cultural and religious heritage can make a world of difference in their lives.
Why are Muslim Foster Carers needed?
Cultural and Religious Support: Muslim children in care should feel comfortable practicing their faith and maintaining their cultural identity with their foster families.
Rewarding Experience: Fostering is an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling role, offering the chance to make a real difference in a child’s life.
Growing Need: Thousands of Muslim children are in care in England, including many from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds.
The Brighton & Hove Fostering Team invites you to learn more
The Brighton & Hove Fostering Team invites the Muslim community to learn more about fostering at one of their upcoming information events:
Current Muslim foster carers share the joy and fulfillment they find in fostering. Esmat, who fosters a 13-year-old boy, says, “As Muslims, we believe strongly in the values of compassion, generosity and opening our home and our hearts to someone who needs love and care.” Another foster carer, Naseem, shares that she and her husband were attracted to fostering because they “simply love children.”
As the Islamic calendar progresses, we find ourselves in the blessed month of Dhu al-Qadah (ذو القعدة). Often overshadowed by the more prominently known months like Ramadan and Dhu al-Hijjah, Dhu al-Qadah holds its own unique significance in the Islamic year. As one of the four sacred months in Islam, it is a time of peace, a period of preparation, and an opportunity for increased ibadah (worship).
The Sacred Months: A Time of Reverence
In the Quran, Allah (SWT) mentions the significance of four months:
Indeed, the number of months ordained by Allah is twelve — in Allah’s Record since the day He created the heavens and the earth — of which four are sacred. That is the Right Way. So do not wrong one another during these months…
[Surah At-Tawbah 9:36]
These four sacred months are Dhu al-Qadah, Dhu al-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. During these months, warfare is traditionally forbidden, and good deeds are particularly rewarded. It is a time to increase our focus on spirituality and avoid any form of wrongdoing.
Dhu al-Qadah: The Master of Truces
The name “Dhu al-Qadah” itself offers a clue to its significance. It literally means “the one of truce” or “the one of sitting” (referring to sitting from fighting). This name dates back to pre-Islamic times, where it was a custom to cease hostilities during this month, allowing for safe travel and trade. Islam upheld this tradition, emphasising the importance of peace and the sanctity of this period.
A Prelude to Hajj: Preparation and Intention
Dhu al-Qadah serves as a crucial precursor to the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which witnesses the annual pilgrimage of Hajj. For those intending to perform Hajj, Dhu al-Qadah is a time of earnest preparation. This includes:
Making the intention: Renewing and strengthening the intention (niyyah) for Hajj.
Gaining Knowledge: Learning about the rituals and procedures of Hajj, attending workshops, and reading relevant materials.
Physical and Financial Preparation: Ensuring physical fitness for the rigorous journey and managing financial affairs to cover the expenses of the pilgrimage.
Spiritual Readiness: Increasing acts of worship, seeking forgiveness, and purifying the heart for the spiritual journey ahead.
Even for those not performing Hajj, Dhu al-Qadah offers an opportunity to connect with the spirit of the pilgrimage. It’s a time to reflect on the significance of Hajj, the journey of a believer towards Allah (SWT), and the importance of sacrifice and submission.
Recommended Acts of Worship in Dhu al-Qadah
While all good deeds are rewarded, we can make the most of this sacred month by increasing the following acts of worship:
Fasting: Although not obligatory, voluntary fasting on some days in Dhu al-Qadah is highly recommended, following the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Recitation of the Quran: Dedicate more time to reciting and reflecting upon the meaning of the Holy Quran.
Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Engage in frequent remembrance of Allah (SWT) through various forms of dhikr like Tasbih (Subhan Allah), Tahmid (Alhamdulillah), Takbir (Allahu Akbar), and Tahlil (La Ilaha Illallah).
Du’a (Supplication): Make sincere and heartfelt supplications to Allah (SWT) for personal needs, forgiveness, and the well-being of the Ummah.
Sadaqah (Charity): Increase acts of charity and help those in need. The rewards for charity are multiplied in the sacred months.
Seeking Forgiveness: Sincerely repent for past sins and seek Allah’s (SWT) forgiveness.
Maintaining Kinship Ties: Strengthen relationships with family and relatives.
Fostering Peace in Our Lives and Community
The spirit of Dhu al-Qadah, with its emphasis on peace and the cessation of conflict, should inspire us to cultivate peace in our own lives and within our community. This includes:
Resolving Conflicts: Actively seeking to resolve any conflicts or misunderstandings with others in a peaceful and just manner.
Promoting Harmony: Contributing to a harmonious environment within our families, neighbourhoods, and the wider community.
Good Manners and Conduct: Striving to uphold the highest standards of Islamic ethics and manners in all our interactions.
Interfaith Dialogue: Continuing to foster understanding and dialogue with the wider community, building bridges and dispelling misconceptions about Islam.
Seizing the Opportunity of Dhu al-Qadah
Dhu al-Qadah is a month of immense blessings and a valuable opportunity for spiritual growth. Let us utilise this sacred time to increase our acts of worship and strive to embody the principles of peace and harmony that this month represents. May Allah (SWT) enable us to make the most of Dhu al-Qadah and accept our good deeds. Ameen.
As the blessed month of Ramadan comes to a close, Brighton & Hove Muslim Forum extends its warmest greetings to the Muslim community and beyond. Eid Mubarak! May this joyous occasion bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to you and your loved ones.
Celebrating the Blessings of Eid
Reflecting on the blessings of Ramadan and the spiritual growth achieved.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to have observed the holy month.
Sharing the joy of Eid with family, friends, and the wider community.
BHMF’s Message of Unity and Community
Reinforcing BHMF’s commitment to serving the religious, social, and cultural needs of the Muslim community.
Highlighting the importance of unity, compassion, and support within the community.
Encouraging acts of kindness and charity during and beyond Eid.
Wishing You a Blessed Eid
Extending heartfelt wishes for a blessed and joyous Eid al-Fitr.
Praying for peace, happiness, and prosperity for all.
Looking forward to continued community engagement and support.
From all of us at BHMF, Eid Mubarak! May Allah accept our fasts, prayers, and good deeds. We wish you and your families a blessed and joyous Eid al-Fitr.
With the blessed month of Ramadan drawing to a close, we eagerly anticipate the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr 2025. Insha’Allah, Eid al-Fitr will be on Sunday, 30th April 2025.
To help you plan your Eid day, we are pleased to share the Eid prayer timings for the mosques in Brighton & Hove:
1. Al-Medinah Mosque
Address: 24 Bedford Place, Brighton BN1 2PT
Eid Prayers:
1st Jama’ah: 8:30 AM
2nd Jama’ah: 9:30 AM
3rd Jama’ah: 10:30 AM
2. Shahjalal Muslim Cultural Centre
Address: 252 Portland Road, Hove, BN3 5QT
Eid Prayers:
1st Jama’ah: 7:45 AM
2nd Jama’ah: 8:30 AM
3rd Jama’ah: 9:15 AM
3. Brighton Mosque
Address: 150 Dyke Road, Brighton, BN1 5PA
Eid Prayers:
1st Jama’ah: 8:00 AM
2nd Jama’ah: 9:00 AM
May Allah accept our fasts, prayers, and good deeds during Ramadan. Aamin.
As we approach the final ten nights of Ramadan, the anticipation for Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, intensifies. This blessed night, described in the Quran as being better than a thousand months, holds immense spiritual significance. This blog post will guide you on how to maximise these precious nights and increase your chances of experiencing the blessings of Laylatul Qadr.
Understanding the Significance of the Last 10 Nights
Spiritual Intensity: These nights are a period of heightened spiritual focus, where Muslims dedicate themselves to increased prayer, reflection, and charity.
Seeking Laylatul Qadr: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to seek Laylatul Qadr within these nights, particularly on the odd-numbered nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th).
Increased Rewards: Actions performed during these nights carry greater rewards, making them invaluable for spiritual growth.
Practical Tips for Maximising the Last 10 Nights
Increase Prayer and Dhikr: Engage in more voluntary prayers (Nawafil) and remembrance of Allah (Dhikr).
Recite the Quran: Dedicate time to reading and reflecting on the Quran.
Make Sincere Dua (Supplication): Ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
Give Charity (Sadaqah): Increase your charitable giving, even in small amounts.
Perform Itikaf (Seclusion): If possible, consider observing Itikaf in the mosque for a spiritual retreat.
Stay Up at Night: Spend the nights in worship and reflection, avoiding unnecessary distractions.
Reflect and Repent: Take time to reflect on your actions and seek sincere repentance.
Plan your nights: Make a schedule of the actions you want to perform in the last 10 days.
Key Dua for Laylatul Qadr
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me).
In conclusion, the last 10 nights of Ramadan are a golden opportunity for spiritual renewal and seeking Allah’s mercy. By implementing these tips and dedicating ourselves to worship, we can hope to experience the blessings of Laylatul Qadr and gain immense rewards.
The Amex Stadium, home to Brighton and Hove Albion FC, became a powerful symbol of unity and inclusion on Sunday, March 16th, 2025, as it hosted the Open Iftar event, a highlight of Ramadan Festival 2025. This gathering, organised by the Ramadan Tent Project, brought together over 500 individuals from Brighton’s diverse community, fostering a profound sense of connection and shared experience.
For BHMF members and the wider community, this Open Iftar was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of the rich tapestry of cultures and faiths that make Brighton and Hove so vibrant. The event’s theme, “Connection,” resonated deeply, as attendees from various backgrounds came together to break fast, share stories, and build bridges.
The evening began with the soul-stirring Adhan (call to prayer) echoing across the stadium’s pitch, a moment that highlighted the spiritual heart of Ramadan. Following this, guests shared a communal iftar, a symbol of equality and shared humanity. Engaging speakers illuminated the importance of community cohesion and cultural understanding, reinforcing the event’s mission to turn strangers into friends.
Open Iftar, the Ramadan Tent Project’s flagship initiative, has a remarkable track record of transforming iconic spaces into hubs of interfaith dialogue and unity. From the Royal Albert Hall to the Amex Stadium, these events underscore the power of Ramadan to bring people together, regardless of their faith or background.
This Open Iftar event at Brighton and Hove Albion FC was a testament to the strength of community spirit and the importance of fostering inclusivity. For the BHMF, it was a moment of pride, showcasing the organisation’s commitment to building a harmonious and equitable society. It was a night where the values of diversity and equality were not just spoken, but lived, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
As the crescent moon heralds the arrival of Ramadan, the entire team at BHMF extends our warmest wishes to our cherished brothers and sisters across the globe. May this sacred month of Ramadan 1446 (2025) be a period of profound spiritual growth and renewal for each and every one of you.
We earnestly pray that Allah (SWT) grants us all the strength and sincerity to make this Ramadan our most fulfilling yet. May our hearts be filled with devotion, and may we excel in every act of worship, from fasting and reciting the Holy Qur’an to engaging in Dhikr, performing Salah, and giving generously in charity. We implore Allah (SWT) to accept our humble efforts and shower us with His boundless blessings.
In these challenging times, we remember our brothers and sisters facing hardships around the world – especially Gaza, Palestine. We beseech Allah (SWT) to alleviate their suffering, grant them relief, and spread His divine guidance to all of humanity. Ameen.
