Seerat Club Series

The Friendly Fire - 2nd
Session of the Seerat Club

Huzaifa Sheikh

There I was lost in my books, feeling as if I was wasting each minute passing by just studying continuously. I was desperate for a break, but again what would I do in my free time? Be a couch potato and lay on the couch, lazily flicking the TV channels in search of some relief, or training by thumb for a marathon by scrolling on my phone? No, I was in need of some type of excursion, an activity to keep myself busy as well as gaining serenity.

Just then my phone jolted to life, as if it was revived from the dead. I checked the message and saw a poster of an event taking place in my local mosque at night named Seerat Club, looking for volunteers. It was a continuation of the same program that occurred, a month prior. Nevertheless, lethargy overcame me and I decided to overlook it with the excuse of having another class that night and left my phone on silent. My mother advised me to volunteer there as it was firstly doing something good in the way of Allah, and secondly it was the perfect opportunity for me to release myself from the shackles of my studies and experience alleviation. However, I was stubborn as a rock and held my ground. A couple days passed and the day of the event arrived. I still hadn’t reconsidered, even though my mother kept on encouraging me to go.

Impetuously, I had no solid reason to refuse to volunteer as I was notified that I wouldn't be having my class that night. Therefore, I was practically free as a bird and there was no physical barrier between me and the volunteer program, rather a mental one. Still however, I refused to budge but a thought pierced into my brain, shattering all the walls in its way. “The way things are unfolding, it's as if Allah wants me to volunteer for a program that will not only benefit me solely but will benefit others through me. Before I had a valid reason, but Allah just made it to occur in a way that He caused something unexpected to occur just so I could have the opportunity to do something for His sake” That thought nestled in my brain and I began to feel that this was an opportunity I must not miss.

I messaged my friend who was in charge of the program, affirming my presence, but was still unsure as it was as if I was standing behind a door, knowing that what lay on the other side was bound to be great, but was hesitant to open it. Anyhow the program was to commence after maghrib prayer, and I left for the mosque.

After the prayers, I met my friend who was organizing the program, Muneeb Bhai, and he assigned me to the youngest group which was also being overlooked by another volunteer. I made friends with the other volunteer and then all the children sat in a semi circle as the Imam of the mosque, Owais Bhai and commenced the program. The topic was regarding the Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and he explained it in such an exemplary manner, engaging the children with his words as well as the slides in the background.

Following that, children dispersed into their respective groups and suddenly I was surrounded by a bunch of young, innocent kids. This was the ice breaking session and I began to ask each child basic questions like, “What is your name?” “What is your age?” and also, “What is your favourite hobby?” At first certain children were a tad bit timid, hesitating to answer, however as as they noticed others answering, they too pitched in. Next the volunteer alongside me took the children’s attendance, whilst I explain the activity to them and showed them the sheets they would receive on which they would carry out the activity. All the children seemed interested, always beaming and gleeful as ever.

Nevertheless, there was a particular child clearly disconnected from the laughter of the lot, with no spark in his eyes. It was evident that he was certainly not having a good time and when I approached him, he replied that he wanted to go home. I informed the other individuals in charge of the program and eventually his parents came to pick him up. Subsequently the children were given snacks, a samosa and chicken rolls and I too relished the treats.

The program concluded in an unforgettable way as Munib Bhai and the other organisers partnered with the local moon sighting committee who had organised telescopes in the mosque for the children. The experience was truly mesmerizing, seeing the children full of jubilance, eagerly awaiting their turn to gaze upon the moon,a breathtaking creation of Allah. As the children began to leave, I also crouched, gazing through the telescope with my eyes fixed upon the moon. It was entrancing, staring at the moon at such close proximity for the first time. I even took a few snaps of the view from the telescope, with my phone, letting it be a memory I would cherish forever.

In conclusion, the program was beyond belief. I am still grateful to this day that Allah carved out a way for me to volunteer at the mosque and it really did keep me occupied. This experience made me attain peace and granted a sense of accomplishment as well as satisfaction, for carrying out something productive which not only benefited me, but others too. I would urge everyone, especially teenagers to volunteer in such programs, as they do not only help you in college but leave a lasting impact on you for the rest of your life and help you appreciate our religion of Islam. Moreover, by organizing such events in the mosque, allows us to perceive the mosque as not only a place of worship, but a community center, bringing people close to each other and a place full of activities, encouraging the children to also come, as it was during the time of the Prophet (PBUH).

I pray that this second program of the seerat club proved beneficial, for the children, the volunteers and even the organisers, who took their time out to initiate something pleasing to Allah and that the mosque remains a place connecting the community. Ameen.

Unforgettable Memories at Seerat Clubs Inaugural Session -
Once Upon a Time in Jannat

Wajeeh Farhan

On Saturday, October 5th, 2024, the Seerat Club held its first-ever session at Shafqat Masjid. After Asr prayer, children aged 4-15 were registered and grouped by age, and I had the pleasure of leading the Yellow Group of boys aged 7 and below.

We kicked things off with some ice-breaking activities. I got to know each child’s unique personality—Sulaymaan was energetic and eager, Huzaifa started off shy but opened up beautifully, and Khalid was attentive and thoughtful. Zaid and Hashim were curious, always ready with a question, and each interaction was a joy. I had so much fun getting to know them, sharing stories, and discovering how each boy approached learning in his own way.

Once the ice was broken, we moved on to the main session by Maulana Owais, where we discussed the creation of the universe and the story of Hazrat Adam (AS). The boys were fascinated, with questions pouring in, especially about Shaitan and his role. Essa was completely captivated, Talha listened intently, and Muaz enthusiastically chimed in with thoughts of his own. Mustafa was a quiet observer, while Salman took everything in with a calm focus. Their questions and curiosity made me appreciate how naturally children wonder about their world and faith, and it reminded me of the importance of cultivating this curiosity.

After Maghrib prayer, we took a break with samosas and juice before diving into some physical games led by Munib Bhai. Seeing their joy and energy during the games was contagious—I found myself laughing and cheering right along with them. The clay activity allowed each child to unleash his creativity. Each boy’s personality came through in his clay creation, whether it was a bat, a pizza, or something entirely unique. Working alongside them as they shaped and decorated their clay pots was a highlight for me. It was a wonderful reminder of how each child brings something different to the table and how much I can learn from their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm.

At the end, each child received a duffle bag with worksheets and an activity journal to help them reflect on the session. As Isha prayer approached, we prayed together, and the children went home, already excited for the next session.

This first day at Seerat Club was truly memorable—not just for the kids but for me too. I learned so much from each of them and left with a renewed sense of joy and gratitude for being part of this journey. Their energy, curiosity, and sincerity made the day unforgettable, and I can’t wait to see how they grow in the coming sessions.