German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited the historic Lahore Ahmadiyya Mosque located in the Wilmersdorf district of Berlin on March 13, 2025. His visit coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, and he participated in the traditional Iftar meal with community members at the mosque.
This mosque, which celebrated its centennial this year, is not just any mosque; it is the oldest mosque in Germany, established between 1924 and 1928 by the Ahmadiyya movement, also known as the Lahore community, headquartered in Pakistan. The mosque's architectural design was created by German architect Karl-Alfred Herrmann, who drew inspiration from the rich patterns of eastern architectural styles.
Since its founding, the Lahore Ahmadiyya Mosque has served as a welcoming space for Muslims from diverse backgrounds. It has become renowned for fostering interfaith dialogue, hosting various events and activities aimed at bringing together individuals from different beliefs and traditions. The mosque itself has enjoyed protected monument status since 1993, indicating its cultural significance, and has held regular Friday prayers since 2010.
During the Iftar, President Steinmeier expressed his happiness at being present and stated, "I am pleased to be here today at this mosque, where people of different beliefs gather for a shared iftar meal." His words highlight the essence of the gathering, reinforcing the idea of unity among various faiths during Ramadan.
Emphasizing the mosque's role, Steinmeier noted, "The mosque's history reflects the spirit of tolerance and openness." This statement succinctly captures the mosque's commitment to being more than just a place of worship. It functions as a center for serious dialogue between Muslims and non-Muslims, showcasing how such interactions can lead to greater mutual respect and coexistence.
Reflecting on the historical backdrop during which the mosque was founded, Steinmeier remarked on the period of significant upheaval after World War I. He pointed out how various religions, including Islam, needed to reevaluate their foundations and seek fresh avenues for communication and greater understandings. This historical perspective adds depth to the mosque's significance as it navigated through contrasting societal challenges.
The architectural elements of the mosque were also highlighted. Steinmeier praised its unique design, which remains one of the outstanding landmarks of Berlin. Consequently, he stated, "The inclusion of all Islamic influences under one roof reflects the spirit of tolerance." This admiration not only recognizes the mosque's aesthetic value but also its symbolic function as a space where diverse Islamic traditions coalesce.
Throughout its 100-year history, the Lahore Ahmadiyya Mosque has embraced individuals from all walks of life, serving as more than just sacred ground but also as a bastion of intercultural harmony and cohabitation. It was built with the intention of bridging communities through shared religious experiences and heartfelt discussions.
Steinmeier's visit and the Iftar meal at the mosque serve as reminders of the significance of such spaces, especially during times of division and misunderstanding. It showcases the importance of open dialogue and community gathering as foundational aspects of society's progress.
The event exemplifies how the mosque continues to uphold its founding principles, which focused on promoting peace, respect, and unity. It stands as a testimony to the Ahmadiyya movement's vision of fostering interfaith relationships and supporting the discourse on tolerance and acceptance, which is particularly pertinent as societies around the world grapple with increasing polarization.
President Steinmeier's presence at the Lahore Ahmadiyya Mosque doesn't only reinforce the mosque's mission but also showcases the role of political figures in supporting cultural and interfaith initiatives. Such acts can inspire others to join similar endeavors, paving the way for more inclusive environments where diversity is celebrated rather than diminished.
With Steinmeier's remarks and commitment to dialogue, the visit solidifies the mosque's position as not merely historic but also as vibrant and dynamic, continuing to play a significant role within the broader Berlin community and beyond. It encourages people of varying backgrounds to engage with one another, cultivating stronger, lasting relationships rooted firmly in respect and shared human values.