This week, I.M.A.M. participated in the 2025 Annual Meeting and Book Exhibit jointly hosted by the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) and the American Academy of Religion (AAR). Held in Boston, Massachusetts, from November 22–25, according to the organizers, this event brought together nearly 7,800 attendees, including scholars, educators, students, and publishers, making it one of the largest global gatherings in the field of religious studies.

Key Contributions

With nearly 1,000 sessions and workshops held exploring modern issues through the lenses of history, theology, ethics, and culture, this four-day event served as a hub for intellectual exchange and interfaith dialogue. I.M.A.M.’s participation underscored its commitment to fostering mutual respect among diverse traditions and promoting an understanding of Islam through the lens of the Ahl al-Bayt (p). Visitors at the booth had the opportunity to learn about:

• I.M.A.M.’s mission and activities in North America. 
• I.M.A.M.’s and Mufid Seminary’s Publications
• The scholarly contributions of the Hawzah of Najaf. 
• Comparative theological, exegetical, and hadith traditions between Shia and Sunni perspectives. 
• Interfaith and intrafaith dialogue, emphasizing Shia approaches.
• The life and mission of Imam al-Mahdi (p), including His occultation and reappearance. 

Significance of the AAR-SBL Annual Meeting

This marked I.M.A.M.’s third consecutive year (after 2023) at the AAR-SBL Annual Meeting. As the only Islamic publisher represented, I.M.A.M.’s presence was distinctive and impactful, highlighting the contributions of Twelver Shia Islam in a professional and academic space.

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Upon the invitation of the Ahlul Bayt Society (Zekr) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston, Sayyid Kashmiri delivered a lecture on Friday, November 21, 2025, addressing the role of contemporary issues in religious studies, scholarly research, and juristic opinions issued by leading Shia jurists within the Hawzah (seminary). He highlighted the seminary’s ongoing engagement with emerging developments — most recently, the challenges and questions posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

After an introduction outlining the distinguished features of Shia jurisprudence (particularly its methodological framework of ijtihad and its dynamic capacity for continuous scholarly development through the science of Usul al-Fiqh), Sayyid Kashmiri emphasized that it is only natural for the Hawzah to remain current, innovative, and intellectually prepared for new developments, as historical evidence has consistently shown.

He clarified that renewal in the Hawzah does not mean abandoning tradition nor embracing every new idea uncritically. Rather, modernization in the Hawzah means adhering to foundational religious principles while engaging with contemporary realities, analyzing new circumstances, and presenting practical solutions grounded in the Qur’an, authentic hadith, sound reasoning, and universally recognized intellectual norms.

Sayyid Kashmiri then presented real and contemporary examples from the works of prominent scholars such as Sayyid Muhammad Baqir al-Sadr, Sayyid al-Sistani, Shaykh al-Fayyadh, Sayyid Musa Shubairi Zanjani, and others. These examples covered wide-ranging contemporary subjects, including cryptocurrency, banking regulations, accepting the DNA testing and fingerprint identification, women serving as judges, the social contract between governments and citizens, among other emergent issues.

The lecture was well received by the attendees, leading to an extensive Q&A session that touched on multiple fields and concerns. The program concluded with remarks of appreciation and gratitude to I.M.A.M. and Sayyid Kashmiri for their cooperation and continuous support throughout the year and on numerous occasions.

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I.M.A.M. recently had the privilege of participating in the International Book Fair of Cali, Colombia (La Feria Internacional del Libro de Cali), held from October 24 to November 3, 2025.

Representing I.M.A.M.’s Spanish Department, Shaykh Anwar Abdulmalik, together with Shaykh Abdul Karim Orobio, I.M.A.M.’s Spanish book translator, presented several of the organization’s publications now available in Spanish, including:
Emisarios de Dios (La Vida de Jesús)
¿Quién es Husain?
Musulmanes Shiitas
¿Quién es Zaynab?
and others.

The books were warmly received by the Colombian public. Visitors included students, authors, individuals from various faiths and denominations—among them Catholic and Orthodox clergy—as well as business professionals, artists, and new Muslim converts.

I.M.A.M.’s participation in FilCali 2025 marked an important step toward building cultural bridges, fostering interfaith dialogue, and disseminating authentic Islamic knowledge.

We pray that this will be the beginning of a long-standing tradition of sharing faith, understanding, and knowledge across communities.

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On September 24th, the Resilience, Identity, Support, and Empowerment (R.I.S.E.) at I.M.A.M. held a professional development session focused on safety awareness and preparedness. The session, led by a Michigan State Police Trooper, offered practical tips to help individuals stay calm, think clearly, and make informed decisions in unexpected situations.

A follow-up session was also provided for educators and students at I.Q.R.A. and al-Murtada Academy, introducing age-appropriate ways to understand safety and preparedness both at school and in daily life.

These efforts reflect I.M.A.M.’s ongoing commitment to fostering a sense of security, confidence, and readiness within the community. By promoting awareness rather than fear, such trainings empower individuals to respond to challenges with knowledge, composure, and care.

Ultimately, preparedness brings peace of mind—because safety grows stronger when built on understanding, cooperation, and trust.

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Throughout the CHNA process, which spanned from April to October 2025, the Resilience, Identity, Support, and Empowerment Department (R.I.S.E.) at I.M.A.M diligently assisted in gathering insights through various methods, including secondary data analysis, participation in listening sessions, focus groups, and an online community survey made available in English, Spanish, and Arabic. Such comprehensive outreach allowed the capture of a well-rounded perspective on the health needs of Macomb, Wayne, and Oakland counties in Southeast Michigan.

The study revealed important trends within the explored demographics: for instance, Wayne County has a higher percentage of residents aged 65 and over, while Oakland County boasts the highest median household income. Unfortunately, Wayne County also faces challenges with poverty and unemployment, underscoring the disparities in social determinants of health.

CHNA analysis revealed critical issues affecting community members. Among the top concerns identified were mental health access, affordable healthcare, substance use, and nutrition. Moreover, we recognized the unique barriers that many face, including financial constraints and limited access to care, particularly impacting vulnerable populations such as seniors and low-income families.

The CHNA identified urgent health needs encompassing access to healthcare, diabetes management, environmental quality, housing insecurity, and other related issues. During the prioritization session, including the one that was held at IMAM’s Dearborn HQ, participants scored each health topic based on criteria like community benefit, resource availability, and potential for positive change. The insights gathered will guide Corewell Health in shaping initiatives over the next few years, ensuring we align our efforts with the most pressing health concerns articulated by our community.

Together, we can strengthen our community’s health and well-being. R.I.S.E. is proud to be a platform for people to express their voices and concerns, while also influencing the decision-making process for prioritizing health needs over the next few years.

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Dearborn, Michigan – On Saturday, September 7, 2025, the Hope Social Foundation hosted its annual commemoration of the disappearance of Sayyid Musa al-Sadr, marking the 47^th anniversary of his abduction. The keynote address was delivered by Sayyid Kashmiri, who reflected on al-Sadr’s enduring mission and legacy.

Sayyid Kashmiri emphasized that Sayyid Musa al-Sadr’s mission was built on devotion to God, loyalty to the homeland, love for all, and service to humanity. He described al-Sadr as a visionary leader who embodied the concerns and aspirations of the people, particularly the poor and the marginalized, at a time of immense political and social challenges.

“Sayyid al-Sadr carried the cause of the oppressed and launched a great national project based on social justice, coexistence, and the protection of human dignity without discrimination,” Sayyid Kashmiri said.

His Eminence stressed that al-Sadr’s case is not confined to a sectarian or national dimension but represents a universal cause for truth and justice. He noted that while tyrants sought to silence his voice, al-Sadr’s thought and message continue to inspire generations.

He called on the audience to honor al-Sadr’s legacy not only by marking the anniversary of his abduction but by reviving his project of unity, justice, service to humanity, resistance to oppression, and building nations on dignity, knowledge, and faith.

“His is a legacy of responsibility and trust that must be preserved and carried forward,” Sayyid Kashmiri concluded.

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The Resilience, Identity, Support, and Empowerment Department (R.I.S.E.) at I.M.A.M. is proud to share that on Saturday, August 23rd, eighteen dedicated community members completed their training and are now certified as Adult Mental Health First Aiders. This achievement marks a personal milestone for each participant and represents a significant step toward promoting overall mental health and community wellness through projects aimed at increasing mental health literacy.
The partnership between IMAM Michigan and Corewell Health has been vital to this initiative, combining expertise and a shared commitment to promoting mental well-being. Equipped with their new skills, our certified members can recognize and respond effectively to mental health crises, providing essential support and guiding individuals to appropriate resources.

This investment in mental health training boosts our community networks and enhances our collective ability to advocate for mental health. We sincerely thank all participants and partners for their dedication to fostering a culture of mental health awareness and support. Together, we are not only transforming lives; we are inspiring a movement toward an Islamically integrated approach to mental health and wellness, empowering our participants to feel confident with their tools as supports and to recognize the importance of spiritual and mental well-being.

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As part of his visit to Dearborn, Michigan, to mark the mourning commemorations of Imam Husayn (peace be upon him), His Eminence Ayatollah Sayyid Monir al-Khabbaz (may Allah bless him) participated in a special meeting organized by I.M.A.M. The gathering brought together speakers and reciters of the Husayni pulpit, along with imams and representatives from Islamic centers, mosques, and institutions across the greater Detroit area.

Held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the meeting served as a forum for consultation and dialogue on how to best prepare for the sacred month of Muharram and revive its significance with purpose and clarity. It was an opportunity to benefit from the wisdom, experience, and insights of His Eminence as scholars and community leaders prepare to guide their communities during this important season.

The session opened with remarks from Sayyid M.B. Kashmiri, who welcomed the distinguished guest and attendees, thanking them for their presence. He highlighted some of the pressing challenges facing Islamic communities in the West and emphasized the importance of approaching these issues with thoughtfulness and strategic thinking—avoiding reactive or emotional responses in favor of reasoned, deliberate solutions.

His Eminence Sayyid al-Khabbaz then offered valuable guidance, drawing from his own experiences and scholarly insight. Among his key recommendations was the importance of conducting community surveys and fostering collaboration among local Islamic institutions, even at a small scale. These efforts, he noted, could help gather meaningful data to inform and support the work of preachers and organizational leaders during the season of mourning.

He also referenced a set of ten practical recommendations he previously issued through the Liaison Office of the Religious Authority in London, which are available online for those seeking further direction during the Husayni season.

The meeting concluded with words of gratitude from His Eminence, who praised the collective efforts of the scholars and religious leaders in attendance. He prayed for a successful Husayni season for all.

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In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
Peace and blessings on Muhammad and his holy progeny

Closing Statement:
The 19th Annual Conference of the Council of
Shia Muslim Scholars of North America

Inspired by the Quranic verse, “Say, ‘This is my way: I invite to Allah with insight—I and those who follow me” (12:108), the 19th Annual Conference of the Council of Shia Muslim Scholars of North America convened at Masjid-e-Ali in Somerset, New Jersey, under the theme “Navigating Contemporary Challenges”. Scholars, preachers, and imams from across the United States and Canada gathered on April 26 and 27, 2025 (27 and 28 Shawwal 1446 AH) to address the impact of unprecedented societal changes on Muslim communities, particularly matters related to medicine and artificial intelligence. As Muslims continue to deepen their roots in the West, increasingly complex issues require scholarly engagement to clarify the position of Islam. Thus, the conference attendees examined critical topics, including:

• Teaching with Purpose: Principles of Adult Learning and Virtual Engagement:
  This session explored effective teaching methodologies, particularly the growing and inevitable need for virtual learning environments. The evolving role of online systems in religious instructions and community building was discussed, and members of the Council affirmed the need for preserving Islamic values and behavior and scholarly integrity when these platforms are employed. Moreover, scholars were encouraged to develop digital literacy skills and diverse teaching approaches to benefit a wider Muslim audience. 

• Understanding Administrative Systems in the West:
  Familiarity with the administrative structures of their respective countries and localities will enable clerics, religious scholars, and imams to better educate and advise their communities, and empower them to utilize available resources for personal and collective civic engagement.  

• Dealing with Modern Medical Issues:
  This session addressed life support, Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, organ donation, and the challenges physicians and Muslim families encounter when faced with critical end-of-life decisions. The Council emphasized the need for continued study of these issues, especially in light of medical advances and changes in common practice, and the development of comprehensive white papers that provide the most up-to-date information and simultaneously seek guidance from the jurists for clear religious verdicts on these issues.

• Mental Health First Aid for Islamic Scholars:
  Religious scholars with advanced education and training in mental health and clinical psychology provided instruction to the attendees and led vital discussions on mental health awareness. Recognizing its importance, the Council resolved to offer ongoing workshops throughout the year to further equip scholars with the knowledge and skills to identify and properly deal with these prevalent conditions in their communities.

• Assessment of Artificial Intelligence as a Religious Tool:
  The Council concluded that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a valuable educational tool, it cannot replace religious scholars or the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (p). As such, the members unanimously stressed the need for religious oversight on the usage of AI for religious matters, particularly jurisprudential rulings, and a clear delineation of the limits of its application. The Council advised all Muslims to continue consulting human scholars and ensuring religious matters are carefully verified. Simultaneously, scholars were encouraged to be aware of the rapid evolution of AI and its usage among their community members, and to engage in producing accurate and effective content that can address outstanding issues.

The Council also discussed a number of matters related to its internal affairs:

• This year’s conference was especially blessed by a robust participation of young scholars who are actively serving communities across North America. The cooperation between junior and senior members of the Council remains vital for preserving and passing down the rich traditions and teachings of the Imams of the Ahl al-Bayt (p) to future generations. The council encourages all new scholars to become official members and join others in serving the community at-large. 

• Recognizing the need to sustain and expand its efforts, particularly in fulfilling important responsibilities like new month moon-sighting, the Consultative Board of the Council endorsed new and continuing members for the upcoming term: Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi (Toronto, ON), Shaykh Jafar Banglori (Miami, FL), Shaykh Amin Rastani (Dallas, TX), Shaykh Jafar Muhibullah (Austin, TX), Sayyid Hamed Hashemi (Tampa, FL), Shaykh Ahmad Modarres (Los Angeles, CA), and Sayyid Jawad Sajjadi (San Jose, CA). 

• Discussions on several structural matters will be completed accordingly. This includes renaming, reorganizing, and making necessary changes to committees and member positions. These updates will be posted on the Council’s website when they are finalized. 

• The Council expresses its sincere gratitude to the distinguished guest speakers and trainers, Masjid-e-Ali and its sponsors,  management, and volunteers, who graciously and seamlessly hosted this year’s conference under the leadership of His Eminence Syed Rizwan Rizvi, Jaffari Islamic Centre of Toronto, the Imamia Medics International (IMI) for their sponsorship, and lastly, His Eminence Sayyid M. B. Kashmiri and the staff of I.M.A.M. for their tireless work in organizing and managing the conference, which has been an annual tradition since 2004.

Finally, we pray to God Almighty to prolong the lives of our esteemed marājiʿ and to hasten the reappearance of the Imam of our time, may peace be upon him, and to fill the earth with justice and equity.

May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you all.

On behalf of the council
Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi
The General Secretary

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On Sunday, April 27, 2025, a special book launch was held for I.M.A.M.’s latest Spanish publication, Emisarios de Dios: La Vida de Jesús (God’s Emissaries: The Life of Jesus). The event took place at the Kauzar Islamic Center in Cali, Colombia.

The gathering was led by Shaykh Abdul Karim Orobio—translator of the book and resident scholar of the center. It was a beautiful interfaith event, where many Christian guests had the opportunity to learn about the life and message of Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) from an Islamic perspective.

Shaykh Abdul Karim welcomed attendees with gratitude and offered a brief overview of I.M.A.M.’s mission and work. A heartfelt video message from the author, Shaykh Rizwan Arastu, was also shared with the South American community, expressing his appreciation and support.

We are sincerely grateful to all who joined us for this meaningful occasion and look forward to continuing to build bridges of understanding between our communities.

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