Thousands of Muslim community members came together to celebrate Eid Al-Adha, on Friday, September 1, 2017, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. The Eid Al-Adha Expo was organized by CIOGC, with the support of Islamic Community Center of Illinois (ICCI), and it was generously sponsored by Zakat Foundation of America, Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA), Shalimar Banquets, and Baitulmaal USA.
The first Eid prayer was led by Sheikh Amin Al Ali of the Islamic Community Center of Illinois (ICCI). Sheikh Al Ali reminded worshippers of the importance sacrifice, with the story of Prophet Ibrahim, (a), who was prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for Allah (swt), his first-born son and who was generously rewarded by Allah (swt) for his unwavering faith. He also reminded everyone of the importance of unity among Muslims when facing the challenges of today’s society.
The first prayer was followed by a khutba delivered by Ustadh Ubaydullah Evans,) first Scholar-in-Residence and Executive Director, American Learning Institute for Muslims (ALIM). He too recited the story of Prophet Ibrahim (a) and underscored the importance of carrying on the prophetic tradition of sacrifice, charity, and goodwill in our daily lives.
The second prayer was led by Sheikh Nazir Chahin of the Islamic Society of the Northwest Suburbs (ISN) in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Sheikh Chahin recounted the importance of this Eid for the Muslim community, and how it serves as a guide for our daily actions.
The Eid Al-Adha Expo also offered families opportunities to eat, socialize, and recreate with family and friends. The Expo offered halal Mediterranean and South Asian entrees, and pizza, as well as action games for the youth, including, laser tag. There were also a few vendors present offering a few last minutes gift ideas for family members.
CIOGC wishes to extend its thanks and appreciation to the volunteers and event sponsors who helped make the Eid Al-Adha Expo a great success, and it looks forward to working with more members of our community to make the next Eid celebration better and enjoyed by even more of our community members.