Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih III’s (ra) first European Tour (1967)

Overview

On July 6, 1967, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh), departed from Rabwah to Karachi via the Chenab Express and went to Germany, Switzerland, Holland, Denmark, England and Scotland. His Holiness returned to Rabwah on August 20, 1967, after conveying the message of the oneness of God. Thus, this visit of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) continued for one month and fourteen days. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) addressed the press at seven locations during this visit, participated in 18 reception invitations, and delivered Friday sermons at five places where Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) drew the attention of the Jamaat to tarbiyyat, tabligh, and their responsibilities. During this visit, newspapers published news containing photo Overviews of His Holiness and the history of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, interviews were broadcast on radio and television, and proceedings of receptions and press conferences were also shown on radio and television. In this way, Islam Ahmadiyya, the true religion, was well discussed, and people became curious about it. A large number of people contacted the Jamaat by telephone and letters. Some bai’ats also took place during this visit. One of the main purposes of this visit was the inauguration of a mosque built by women’s donations in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Prayer Request to Members of Jamaat

Prior to leaving, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) took the opportunity to request prayers from the Jamaat, stating: 

“Members of the Jamaat know that our fifth mosque in Europe, outside of England, is nearing completion and will be inaugurated on July 22nd. Members of the Jamaat in Denmark have requested that I personally come and inaugurate the mosque. Meanwhile, members of the Jamaat in other European countries where our missionaries are present expressed their desire that if you attend the inauguration, taking advantage of this opportunity, you must visit the mission houses as well.¹

Then there was a request from the people of England that if I am coming to Europe, England should also be included in my visit by the grace of Allah Almighty.

By the grace of Allah, there are about five hundred Ahmadis in London alone, which is the largest congregation. However, there are also very large Jamaats in other areas of England.” 

Purpose of the visit

Before leaving, His Holiness stated while explaining the purpose and reason of this visit:

“I want all members to pray for this journey and ask Allah the Almighty for good so that good and blessed means are created for the publication and dominance of Islam. God Almighty knows that there is no desire in the heart for travel and tourism, nor is there any personal purpose related to it. There is only one longing in the heart and that those who have been wandering in the darkness of disbelief and polytheism for hundreds of years may recognize the greatness and glory of my Lord and the love of the great benefactor of humanity, Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ may be established in their hearts so that they may join the group of inheritors of eternal life. They should be freed from the restrictions of rituals, and they should begin to see the splendour of God’s mercy, his love, his beauty, his kindness, and his light, so that the promise that God gave to the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, be fulfilled. Which is that through the glory of your successor I will bring all the nations to your feet so that the hearts that are unfamiliar with the light of Muhammad, the Messenger of God, may be filled with the light of the Messenger of God and the tongues that are taunting you until today, begin to utter supplications for you.” ²

Members of the Jamaat who accompanied Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) on this trip

In view of certain interests and constraints, it was decided that a very short group should depart for Europe on this occasion. In this group along with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh), Sahibzada Mirza Mubarak Ahmed Sahib, Wakil Ul-Tabashir, Chaudhry Muhammad Ali Sahib, Private Secretary, and Abdul Manan Sahib Dehlavi, Khadim Khas, had the honour of accompanying. In addition, Hazrat Syeda Mansoora Begum Sahiba (wife of His Holiness) and Ms. Syeda Tayyaba Begum Sahiba (wife of Sahibzada Mirza Mubarak Ahmad Sahib) accompanied His Holiness at their own expense.³

---

The Journey Begins

These couplets are from Hazrat Syeda Khaban Mar that Begum Sahiba Mudzala Al-Aali derived from a prayer poem written by Hazrat Syeda Nawab Mubaraka Begum in 1932 on the occasion of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (ra)’’s departure to England for his studies. These couplets were published in Al Fazl upon Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s departure from Rabwah on July 6, 1967 for the purpose of inaugurating the fifth mosque of Jamaat Ahmadiyya in Europe and spreading the word of the true God there.⁴

On July 4, 1967, at nine in the morning, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) left Qasr Khilafat and travelled to Bahishti Maqbara by car. There, His Holiness and other elders offered prayers at the graves of deceased elders, joined by the Promised Messiah’s family and other members.

Afterwards, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) went to the Rabwah railway station, where thousands awaited him. His Holiness greeted and shook hands with many, eventually sitting on a chair so everyone could see him, which delighted the crowd. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) then engaged in silent prayers for about fifteen minutes with the crowd.

When informed that the vehicle was about to depart for Rabwah, His Holiness led a congregational prayer at ten minutes to ten, marked by solemnity and emotional fervour.

This unforgettable scene is mentioned in Al Fazl as:

“At 10:35 pm, the vehicle reached Rabwah station. Members of the Jamaat rushed towards Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s carriage. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) stood at his coach’s door until the vehicle departed at 11:30 pm. Members of the Jamaat bid farewell with prayers and slogans while Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) waved, responded to greetings, and prayed silently.”

From Rabwah to Karachi, large numbers of Ahmadis welcomed His Holiness at stations, eager to meet Him. Despite the heat and fatigue, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) continued meeting followers, offering advice and blessings, with meetings extending into the night.⁵

Karachi, Pakistan to Frankfurt, Germany

On July 8, 1967, after the congregational prayer, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s convoy left for Karachi airport. On this occasion, a goat was sacrificed by Jamaat Karachi. Until His Holiness returned from his visit, the Karachi Jamaat continued to sacrifice one goat daily.

When Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) reached the airport, a large number of men and women from the Jamaat had already gathered. Among them were members of the family of The Promised Messiah (as), Amirs and presidents of various parties, teachers of the Ahmadiyya chain, prominent Jamaat members of Karachi, and representative women of the Ummah Allah Council. A separate arrangement was made at the airport for Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s seat. 

As long as Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) was present in his house, His Holiness gave various pieces of advice. Here again, His Holiness prayed. As the time of separation approached, the sadness on the face of His Holiness was noticeable. Finally, when the departure of the passengers was announced, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) went to the plane of the convoy. Standing on the last step of the ship, His Holiness looked kindly at his God and waved goodbye. At that time, every eye was teary. At exactly 8:30 am, when the plane took off, the atmosphere of the airport echoed with enthusiastic slogans.

At 8:30 am, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) left for Frankfurt via Tehran and Moscow on a Boeing B720 aircraft. The plane landed at the Tehran airbase at 9:45 am

When the plane landed, Mr. Mohammad Afzal Sahib Sabir and other members of Jamaat Ahmadiyya Tehran welcomed Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh). His Holiness shook hands with all the Jamaat Members. At ten o’clock, the plane departed, and His Holiness reached Frankfurt at 3:40 pm on the same day.

Here, the faithful congregation of Frankfurt was present to welcome Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) under the leadership of Maulvi Fazl Elahi Sahib Anwari, Missionary Frankfurt. Chaudhry Abdul Latif, a Missionary in Germany, and Chaudhry Mushtaq Ahmed Sahib Bajwa had also come to the airport to welcome His Holiness.⁶

The meeting between Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) and Jamaat Ahmadiyya Tehran is recorded in Al Fazlas well:

On July 8, 1967, His Holiness embarked on a journey to Frankfurt aboard a PIA Boeing aircraft, with scheduled stops in Tehran and Moscow. Mohammed Fazal, a Sardar, reports that His Holiness arrived in Tehran at 9:45 am, where members of the Jamaat were already gathered to welcome him. His Holiness met with the members of the Jamaat briefly before departing at 10:15 am for Moscow. The journey continued, and His Holiness ultimately arrived in Frankfurt at 3:40 pm.⁷

Short Stay in Frankfurt: Religious Engagements and Conferences

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s stay in Frankfurt was very brief, lasting only one day. As a result, the entire program had to be completed on Sunday. The schedule consisted of three main parts: a meeting with members of the Jamaat, a communal meal, and a reception. These activities were carried out in that order.

Meetings

Due to the sincere desire of the congregation’s members, a request was made to His Holiness for separate meetings. The list of visitors was managed by a diligent member, Mirza Mahmood Ahmad Sahib, who ushered in each visitor in order. In the meeting room, Mr. Private Secretary and Maulvi Fazal Elhi Anwari were present along with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh). Yesterday, 27 members met with His Holiness, including Germans, Arabs, 16 Pakistanis, and one Italian member.⁸

His Holiness’ address at the reception

A reception was given to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) on the afternoon of July 9, 1967, which was attended by dignitaries from the city, members of the local community, some Iranian Muslims, representatives of Nuremberg and other German communities. The president of the city administration Mr. Rudolph Ters, the representative of the judiciary of Frankfurt, Mr. Justice Fredrish Carl and his wife. Vice-Mayor of the city, respected professor of Frankfurt University, Lie Paul Werints, director of the municipality of the city, Hans Werner Schneider, Catholic priest of Offenburg, Dr. Fritz Pfeil, a Protestant priest, Rev. Kuehne and one of his friends and besides them many German Christians and Iranian Muslims joined.

In the reception ceremony, the congregation of Frankfurt presented a letter of thanks in the service of His Holiness. 

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) delivered a speech in English, where His Holiness expressed gratitude to the people of Frankfurt for taking the time to attend the reception. Additionally, His Holiness addressed the gathering about the mission of the Promised Messiah.

His Holiness said:

“Dear ladies and gentlemen,

I am very grateful to the Frankfurt congregation for the welcome note read by them at this meeting. Likewise, I thank all those brothers and sisters who have taken the time to come here. Kindly allow me to introduce myself personally. This is not my first visit to Frankfurt. I have been here before. I was a student at that time, and although my stay here was very short, the memories of the student children of Frankfurt from that time are still fresh in my mind. The impression they made on me was profound. This is the reason why, even after the passing of years, it still stands. Now, the same children are sitting in front of me as tried and tested nobles, and I am happy to meet them again. It is as if I already know you. I am happy to meet you again, especially because today I have the honour of speaking about the Messenger of God, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, and the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement. He claimed that he had been sent as the reformer of this last age and entrusted with a special task.

The Promised Messiah also claimed that he was on the side of God Almighty. The assurance and promise were given that he would ultimately be successful because it is God’s decision that, despite all kinds of enmity and opposition he would face, he will be successful. I consider it appropriate to present his claim in his own words. The Promised Messiah says:

“The work for which God has assigned me is to remove the separation that has occurred between God and his creatures and to re-establish the relationship of love and sincerity. By expressing the truth, I aim to put an end to religious wars and lay the foundation for peace. The religious truths that have been hidden from the eyes of the world will be revealed. I will show you the example of the spirituality that is buried under the darkness of the soul, and the powers of God that manifest in humans through meditation or prayer. They appear in the present tense, and I will not describe their condition in this article. Most importantly, that pure and shining Tawheed, free from all forms of polytheism, which has been destroyed, should be replanted in the nation forever. And all this will not be done by my power, but by the power of God, who is the God of heaven and earth.”

In short, this is the claim made by the founder of the Ahmadiyya community. The Promised Messiah also announced that the world has forgotten its God, which is why God Almighty wanted to prove his existence to the world. That is why the Promised Messiah has been sent.” ⁹

The Challenge of Acceptance Prayer

While delivering an address at an invitational reception in Frankfurt, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) stated:

“Only and only… is the living God, and only Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), is the living Messenger of Allah. The spiritual son of the Holy Prophet (The Promised Messiah, peace be upon him), is the manifestation and living sign of the living God of the true religion. And as his successor, I extend an invitation to the challenge that if any Christian claims that his God is the living God, he should compete with me in the prayer of acceptance, and if he wins, he will receive a great prize.” ¹⁰

Discussion in the Frankfurt Press

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s stay in Frankfurt was only for one day, and no special arrangements could be made for the visit of His Holiness. However, Allah The Almighty approved it as an important link for the spread of Islam. For this reason, Allah Almighty Himself inspired the hearts of journalists and press representatives of Europe to give extensive publicity to this significant visit and the widespread dissemination of the Prophet’s message. This heavenly movement started from Frankfurt.

On Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s arrival in Frankfurt, a local newspaper wrote:

“Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad Sahib (58 years old), the Caliph of millions of Ahmadi people, visited Frankfurt on Saturday. Frankfurt on the River Main was no stranger to him, as His Holiness had previously come here in 1936 while completing his political science studies in England. He will inaugurate the first mosque in Scandinavia, and on this occasion, His Holiness will also inspect other missions in Europe. The Ahmadiyya group is successfully engaged in the task of propagating Islam in Africa. Over the past ten years, they have established many mosques, schools, and hospitals there.”

Another Frankfurt paper, the Frankfurt-Rundschau, noted:

“The Ahmadiyya Jamaat has not only a mission but also a mosque in Frankfurt. Its purpose is to enlighten people worldwide with the truth of Islam. In the late nineteenth century, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be upon him), who founded the community, claimed to be the Prophet and Mahdi under divine inspiration. He presented the prophecies of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the sayings and writings of other religious leaders in support of his claim. Despite strong opposition, the number of followers of this movement has reached around 100,000 worldwide.”

Arrival in Zurich and Successful Reception Ceremonies

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) visited Zurich, Switzerland, around 11:00 am on July 10, 1967, after staying for one day in Frankfurt. At the airport, the distinguished and respected Muslims of Switzerland gave a grand welcome to His Holiness. In the evening, a reception was held in honour of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh), attended by many dignitaries. Muslims from different countries expressed their feelings of love and devotion to His Holiness.¹¹

Two children present a bouquet of flowers to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) at the Zurich Airport

His Holiness also addressed the members of the community, saying:

“Some brothers have mentioned that Switzerland, along with other unnamed European countries, graciously offers jobs to Muslims and often settles Muslim families within these countries. On behalf of all my Muslim brothers, I am grateful to your country and others that treat us well. However, the gathering of Muslims in foreign countries and the resultant temporary settlement have led to various problems. One significant issue is the religious education and proper training of the children of Muslim families.” ¹²

In July, a lunch was arranged in honour of His Holiness, attended by ambassadors from seven countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Iran, and Turkey, as well as the former Prime Minister of Iraq and many other diplomatic representatives and dignitaries from Switzerland. Swiss Radio featured His Holiness in a special interview, and television produced a film of His Holiness’ interview and reception, which was broadcast that evening.

During this occasion, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) emphasised that Islam upholds religious freedom. His Holiness recited the Holy Quran:

“There is no compulsion in religion” ¹³

His Holiness added:

“Religion pertains to the heart, and no weapon, not even an atomic bomb, can alter the thoughts of the heart.” ¹⁴

Mentions of the Great Personality of Godhead in the Zurich Press

The news of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s visit to Zurich and its significance were covered by nearly all daily newspapers in Zurich. These articles highlighted the distinguished personality of His Holiness, introduced the Jamaat, and discussed the lofty teachings of Islam.

Zurich’s most widely circulated and popular newspaper, Tages-Anzeiger, wrote in its July 12, 1967 edition:

“A Venerable Figure of Islam in Zurich.”

The Neue Zürcher Zeitung, one of Switzerland’s most prestigious newspapers and a leading global daily, published an article on July 12, 1967, covering:

“The Arrival of the Distinguished Guest, Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community in Zurich.” ¹⁵

Arrival In Holland

On July 14, 1967, the blessed hour arrived, which the congregation had been eagerly awaiting for many days. All the present members took six cars and proceeded to Amsterdam Airport in a convoy. Hafiz Qudratullah Sahib, Missionary of the Holland Mosque, had already arranged a special reception for Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) by coordinating with the airline officials. Consequently, the party was allowed by the company to approach the aircraft. Representatives of the airline company, along with the members of the congregation, reached a large, decorated waiting room.

Friday Prayer

The mosque was so crowded that overflow arrangements had to be made outside the mosque. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) led the Friday prayer after delivering the Friday sermon.

Reception

On July 15, 1967, at 4:30 pm, a grand reception was hosted by the Holland Mission in honour of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh). On this occasion, some of the top scholars of Holland and other important personalities had the opportunity to meet His Holiness. Unexpectedly, a large number of people attended the meeting, but the arrangements were sufficient, and everything was blessed by Allah the Almighty.

Hafiz Qudratullah Sahib reported from The Hague that His Holiness’ visit to Holland was highly successful. A reception in honour of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) was attended by many dignitaries. On Saturday evening, Jamaat members of Holland had the privilege of dining in the presence of His Holiness.¹⁶

Departure from Holland

Sunday, July 16, 1967, marked the day of His Holiness’ departure from Holland. After finishing breakfast around ten o’clock in the morning, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) gave the order to depart. His Holiness’ convoy, consisting of six vehicles, left for the airport. Before departing, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) stood on the side of the road in front of the mosque and offered a congregational prayer. Those not accompanying him to the airport bid him farewell with heavy hearts, praying for his safe journey. The convoy safely arrived at the airport.

Visit to Hamburg

After visiting Holland, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) travelled to Hamburg, Germany, on July 16, 1967. Maulvi Bashir Ahmad Sahib Shams, the missionary, writes about His Holiness’ visit to Hamburg, Germany, noting that preparations began as soon as the news of His Holiness’s arrival was received.

Reception by the Provincial Government

On July 17, 1967, at 11 am, Mr. Birckholtz, Government Advisor, hosted a reception at the Rathaus in honour of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh). Attendees included, Sahibzada Mirza Mubarak Ahmed Sahib, Wakil Al-Tabshir, Chaudhry Abdul Latif Sahib, and Mr. Abdul Karim Dunkar (a German Ahmadi).

Photography

On July 19,1967, after the Zuhr and Asr prayers, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) took a photo with the driver, fulfilling his request and blessing him. His Holiness also purchased a new camera and took an interest in photography, sharing various photos with members. This brought great joy to the members. Additionally, His Holiness enjoyed occasional outings for leisure.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) capturing the beauty of nature on his camera

Bai’ats

During this period, two individuals formally pledged allegiance to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) and joined the Jamaat. One was Muez Zurab, and the other was a German woman, whose husband was already an Ahmadi. His Holiness suggested the Islamic name “Rashida Martin” for her. ¹⁷

Reports in Press

Al Fazl reports:

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s visit to Hamburg on July 19th was highly successful and received extensive coverage in newspapers, radio, and television.¹⁸

On July 18, BILD ZEITUNG featured a prominent three-column photo of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) and covered the previous day’s events. The bold headline read: “A Man Who Never Shakes a Woman’s Hand.”The article highlighted that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh), a resident of Pakistan, refrains from shaking hands with women, instead greeting them with a nod. It noted that Islam prohibits shaking hands with non-mahram (those with whom marriage is permissible) women.

Visit to Copenhagen, Denmark

On July 20, 1967, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III travelled by train from Hamburg to Copenhagen, Denmark. His Holiness received a warm welcome from Scandinavian parties at the railway station.

Inauguration Nusrat Jahan Mosque, Copenhagen, Denmark

On July 21, 1967, His Holiness inaugurated the Nusrat Jahan Mosque at 1 pm The inauguration drew pilgrims and Ahmadi members from near and far. Large television cameras and numerous newspaper correspondents were on hand. The event was attended by missionaries from across Europe and members from England, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Spain, America, and Switzerland.

At 7:30 pm, the mosque’s opening ceremony was broadcast on television and radio. Syrian newspapers featured detailed reports and photos of the event. One headline read, “Muhammad Has Come to Denmark—And Now to This Mosque.” The article emphasised that Prophet Muhammad’s message would now reach the Danish people.¹⁹

In its July 21, 1967, issue, Kristeligt Dagblad, a prominent Danish newspaper and spokesman for the Church of Denmark, reported:

“Opening of the first mosque in Denmark

Mosque in Denmark! Twenty or thirty years ago, it was unimaginable that a mosque could be built in Denmark. At that time, such an idea would have been considered ridiculous and would have been laughed at. However, it has to be admitted that this branch of Islam (i.e. Jamaat Ahmadiyya) has shown a surprising amount of missionary effort and has achieved a great deal of success in this field. In particular The success it has achieved in Africa is no small feat”

A few years ago, in some countries, it was said with great pride that all the people there are Christians who call Jesus Christ their saviour. However, in a few years, God created a revolution through which the Jamaat was given the privilege to construct a beautiful mosque in Copenhagen. In this sense, the construction of this mosque became very significant.

Due to the inauguration of Nusrat Jahan, there was so much discussion that even Christian circles could not remain unaffected. Therefore, a group of Christian scholars also requested a gathering with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh). Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) accepted their request, granted them a meeting, and answered their questions. His Holiness said that there is a significant difference between present-day Christianity and the original teachings, but humanity in Christians remains the same. We should sit together and discuss ideas. At the end of the meeting, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) referred to a great challenge of the Promised Messiah to the Christian scholars and said that this invitation is still open. We would be very pleased if Christians accept this invitation to decide the truthfulness and sincerity of Christianity.

The challenge is: 

“How will the Torah and the Bible compete with the Quran if they wish to compete with the first Surah of the Holy Quran, i.e., Surah Fatiha, which is filled with hundreds of wisdoms? If one tries to extract these wisdoms from the Book of Moses or from the Gospel, this effort will not succeed even if one tries all their life. The Torah and the Gospel do not possess the power to compete with Surah Fatiha in the science of ruling.” ²⁰

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) on the occasion of laying the foundation stone of Nusrat Jahan Mosque, Copenhagen.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) giving the Mayor of Copenhagen a copy of the Holy Quran as a gift

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh)’s engagements in the UK

On July 26, 1967, at 4:30 pm, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) departed Denmark for England after a week of inaugurating the Nusrat Jahan Mosque and engaging in religious and preaching activities. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) bid farewell with heartfelt prayers from devoted Ahmadis, European missionaries, and other dignitaries.

Upon arriving at London Air Base in the evening, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) was warmly welcomed by hundreds of Ahmadis, including Hazrat Chaudhry Muhammad Zafarullah Khan Sahib and Hazrat Maulvi Qudratullah Sahib Sunuri. He greeted all the Companions.²¹

A Message of Peace to the World

A reception was held in honour of His Holiness at Wandsworth Town Hall, London, attended by members of the British Parliament and prominent personalities. On this occasion, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) gave a powerful speech, reading out the prophecies of the Third World War by the Promised Messiah. He warned the people of the situation that would occur in the event of such destruction and demolition, using the example mentioned by the Promised Messiah in his book, Haqiqatul Wahi.

Apart from this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) said: 

“It should also be remembered… that the victory and the signs of the morning dawn are appearing. Although they are still faint, they can still be observed. The sun will rise in all its glory and illuminate the world, but before that happens, the world must undergo another universal catastrophe—a bloody catastrophe that will shake mankind. If the world does not abandon its lust and lewdness, these warnings will definitely be fulfilled, and no power and no artificial god of the world will be able to save it from the terrible disasters that are promised.” ²²

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) with the Mayor of Wandsworth Town Hall

First Friday Sermon

On July 28, 1967, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) delivered his first Friday sermon in England at Fazl Mosque, London. In his address, His Holiness emphasised that the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) is the foremost pillar of this era and stressed that true understanding and practice of the Holy Quran cannot be achieved without adherence to his teachings.²³

Southall Mosque

On July 29, 1967, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) paid a brief visit to Southall Mosque, and attended a reception given to him by the Community there. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) also addressed the members exhorting them to live in peace with each other.²⁴

Islamic School Inspection

On the morning of July 30, 1967, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) conducted his first inspection of the Islamic Education Sunday School in London. Accompanied by Hazrat Chaudhry Muhammad Zafarullah Khan, His Holiness reviewed the school, which had been established by Jamaat Ahmadiyya Southall in 1966. The school aims to provide proper Islamic education to Ahmadi children within a religious environment.

4th Jalsa Salana UK

The fourth annual convention of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat of England took place at Wandsworth Town Hall on July 31, 1967. On this occasion, attended by around a thousand followers of Khilafat. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) addressed the gathering, explaining the mission of the Promised Messiah and outlining eleven key objectives of his mission, supported by many valuable quotes. His Holiness also discussed various initiatives from his Caliphate, highlighting their significant impact. After concluding with prayers, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) took the bai’at of allegiance from all members present.

Foundation Stone of Mahmood Hall 

On the same day, the foundation stone ceremony for Mehmood Hall was conducted under the auspices of the London Mission. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) personally placed the first brick in the foundation. Following his instructions, Hazrat Chaudhry Muhammad Zafarullah Khan Sahib and Hazrat Alhaj Maulvi Qudratullah Sahib Sunuri also laid a brick each. The ceremony concluded with His Holiness leading a prayer with all those present.²⁵

Laying of the Foundation Stone of Mahmood Hall, London

During his 1967 tour to London, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) reiterated a prophecy made by the Promised Messiah, the founder of the movement, regarding an impending Third World War. This conflict is predicted to involve a sudden clash between communist and opposing blocs, catching everyone off guard. The prophecy foretells catastrophic death and destruction, with flames engulfing the earth and both sides experiencing devastation, leading to the collapse of their power, civilization, and systems. It is suggested that Russia will recover more quickly than the West and will reconcile with the Creator. The conclusion of this war is predicted to mark the beginning of Islam’s triumph. However, like all calamities, the prophecy’s fulfilment could be delayed or averted if humanity turns to God, repents, and amends its ways. The prophecy is presented as a divine decree that cannot be prevented by human means.

Trip To Scotland

After addressing the Jalsa Salana in England, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) travelled to Scotland that evening. His Holiness arrived in Glasgow on the evening of August 1, 1967. There, he was warmly welcomed by devoted members of Jamaat Ahmadiyya Scotland, led by Mr. Bashir Ahmed Sahib Orchard, Missionary, in a grand reception. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) returned to London on the evening of August 9, 1967.

Return to Pakistan

The departure of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (ra) for Pakistan was a memorable event in the history of the London Mission. On August 20, 1967, crowds began gathering in the Mission House’s expansive lawn early in the morning, with heavy hearts. The scheduled departure time was 5:00 pm Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III left London on August 20, 1967 and arrived in Karachi at around 12:00 pm on August 21,1967.

---

1. Al Fazl, 1967, Page 1 ↩︎
2. Al Fazl, July 2, 1967 ↩︎
3. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol.24, Page 7 ↩︎
4. Al Fazl, July 6, 1967, Page 1 ↩︎
5. Al Fazl, July 8, 1967 ↩︎
6. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24, Page 77 ↩︎
7. Al Fazl, July 11, 1967, Page 1 ↩︎
8. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24, Page 78 ↩︎
9. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24, Page 102 ↩︎
10. Al Fazl, July 19, 1967, Page 4 ↩︎
11. Al Fazl, July 13, 1967 ↩︎
12. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol 24, Page 106 ↩︎
13.  (Al-Baqarah: 257) ↩︎
14.  Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24, Page 107/ Al Fazl, July 14, 1967 ↩︎
15. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24, Page 110 ↩︎
16. Al Fazl, July 19, 1967 ↩︎
17. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24, Page 131 ↩︎
18. Fazl, July 22, 1967 ↩︎
19. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol.24, Page 139 ↩︎
20.  Al Fazl, August 2, 1967, Page 4 ↩︎
21.  Al Fazl, July 29, 1967 ↩︎
22. Aman Ka Paighaam aur Aik Harf e Intibah, Page 12 ↩︎
23. Al Fazl, August 1, 1967 ↩︎
24. The Muslim Herald, July, August, September 1967, Page 8 ↩︎
25. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24; Al Fazl, August 5, 1967 ↩︎