As December settles over Belgium, bringing with it the winter chill and the final few days of this old year, our thoughts often turn to family, comfort and spiritual reflection. However, for many elderly members of our society living in care homes (old houses), this time of year can sometimes amplify feelings of loneliness and isolation.
It is in this context that Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium (MKAB) prepares for one of its most cherished annual traditions: the Old House Visit Waqar-e-Amal.
For us, this is not merely a calendar event; it is a manifestation of our core beliefs and a testament to the vibrant spirit of Ahmadi youth in Belgium.
Why We Do It: The Islamic Perspective
The motivation behind these visits is deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) placed immense emphasis on the care and respect of the elderly. He famously stated:
“He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young ones and does not respect our elders.” (Tirmidhi: 1919)
Guided by this beautiful instruction, MKAB views the service of humanity (Khidmat-e-Khalq) not as a burden, but as a spiritual privilege. By visiting these homes, we aim to bridge the generational gap, showing our elders—regardless of their faith or background—that they are valued, remembered, and respected.
A Tradition of Dignity and Service
The term Waqar-e-Amal translates to “Dignity of Labour.” While this department is often associated with physical toil—such as our famous New Year’s street cleaning campaigns—visiting old homes carries a “labour of love” that is equally dignified.
For years, Khuddam across Belgium have dedicated their time in December to this noble cause. Whether it is by helping clean the facilities to ensure a comfortable environment for the residents, or simply spending quality time engaging in conversations, the goal is to serve with humility.
The history of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium is paved with such acts of selfless service. Since our establishment, we have strived to live up to the motto:
“Nations cannot be reformed without the reformation of their youth.”
By dedicating our time and energy to the most vulnerable members of society, we are reforming ourselves, softening our hearts, and fulfilling our duties as citizens and believers.
What to Expect This December
During this month’s Waqar-e-Amal, Khuddam from various local Majalis will visit assigned care homes. The activities generally focus on:
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Companionship: Sharing stories, listening to the life experiences of residents, and offering a compassionate ear.
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Gifts & Flowers: Distributing small tokens of appreciation to bring smiles to their faces.
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Assistance: Offering practical help to the staff or residents where needed, embodying the true spirit of Waqar-e-Amal.
Join Us in Spreading Joy
We invite all Khuddam to participate wholeheartedly in this upcoming program. It is a unique opportunity to step away from our busy lives and digital screens to make a tangible difference in the real world.
Let us walk into these old homes not just as visitors, but as sons and grandsons, carrying the message of “Love for All, Hatred for None.”
May Allah enable us to serve humanity with sincerity and accept our humble efforts. Ameen.
Next Steps for You
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Check with your local Qaid: Find out the specific date and time for your Majlis’s visit.
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Prepare: Think of a kind topic to discuss or a smile to share.
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Share: Use the hashtag #MKABelgium or #KhidmatEKhalq when you participate to inspire others!
