OPEN LETTER FROM WCRP SA ON THE PASSING OF MOULANA FAISEL KHAN

It is with deep regret and sorrow that we learned of the passing of  Moulana Faisel Khan , Vice President of the Sunni Jumiat of South Africa and of World Conference on Religions for Peace South Africa(WCRP – SA).

On behalf of WCRP - SA and the KwaZulu-Natal Interreligious Council (KZN IRC), I extend our deepest sympathies to the his family, his community and to the Muslim people of South Africa on his death.

Moulana Khan will be specially remembered by the Interfaith Community,   for his commitment to reaching out to the various communities to promote justice, peace and understanding  locally, nationally and internationally. His respect for all his colleagues and friends in the interreligious community was a tribute to that stature of the man.

He was one of the first Moulanas to commit to working in prevention of HIV & AIDS ,  eradicating stigma against those affected and infected  and particularly with the children.

He gave total support to the launching of the Kwazulu – Natal Interreligious Council and was a member of the Council and was always ready to participate in the many Interfaith prayers for the Faith communities, the City and the Province.

His humility, warmth, kindness and sense of humour contributed to the love and respect that was accorded him in so many communities. His wisdom and guidance in WCRP will be greatly missed. We have lost a friend, a teacher, spiritual leader and a great human being.

For all these qualities, Moulana Khan was honoured recently at the 2009 Desmond Tutu Peace Lecture on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the establishment of WCRP. We salute you dear brother in peace, and may you rest in peace, salaam.

To his beloved wife Kadijah, and to his  children  and family, we extend our deepest condolences,

May Almighty God give you sabr – patience , to bear this great loss.

May Allah bless you and give you strength and courage. Our prayers and love are with you now and always.

Salaam Alaikum!

Paddy Meskin
President
WCRP South Africa