CONFERENCE REPORT 2003
by Lydia and Nargis
O you who believe, you shall reverence GOD and seek
the ways and means to Him, and strive in His cause, that you may
succeed. [5:35]
The 18th annual United Submitters International Conference was
held in Tucson, Arizona August 29-31, 2003. Submitters from around
the world gathered to share ideas and to commemorate God.
The Friday prayer was led by brother Abdullah, who stressed the
importance of striving in God’s way. And he reminded us that
God is running everything. He quoted 8:17 from the Quran:
It was not you who killed them; GOD is the One who
killed them. It was not you who threw when you threw; GOD is the
One who threw. But He thus gives the believers a chance to earn
a lot of credit. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient.
Abdullah then opened the conference with a welcome to all the submitters,
especially those who had traveled far to attend. While some chose
not to attend this year’s conference for a variety of reasons,
he stressed the need for unity and respect for diversity, and also
that we should concentrate our efforts on enriching our souls.
Introductions were handled a little differently this year. We broke
into small groups and interacted within those groups. It was a very
effective and fun way to get to know one another better. Then each
person introduced the person to his right to the whole group. It
meant you really had to listen to each other and remember ?!!
Friday evening we scheduled a trip to the Planetarium at the University
of Arizona. Because the planet Mars is closer to the earth than
it’s been in 60,000 years, it seemed like a good way to admire
the awesomeness of God’s creations. [Mars was only 34,646,418
miles from Earth on August 26th, its closest approach to the Earth.]
As always, we were treated to excellent presentations and personal
sharing throughout the three days. From the innocence of small children’s
voices—Hannah, 6, and Melissa, 8—to the mature understanding
of new and old submitters, the wealth of information was truly amazing,
and the different perspectives inspiring. We enjoyed several power
point presentations, including the one given by 12-year old Ehsan
on the temptations of this worldly life. Those who pursue this worldly
life and its material vanities, we will pay them for their works
in this life, without the least reduction.
It is they who gave up their share in the Hereafter,
and, consequently, Hell is their lot. All their works are in vain;
everything they have done is nullified. [11:15-6]
Meditation, Zikr and Quran reading are always highlights of the
conference. They uplift our souls as we sing the praises of God
and commemorate His name.
This was such a lovely, peaceful conference that we were all energized
and revitalized for another year of spreading the message. Abdullah,
in his closing remarks, complimented the youth in our submitter
community. They are strong and steadfast and a good example for
the rest of us. All of us need to be patient, persevering, appreciative,
and dedicated to God alone.
Our Lord, let not our hearts waver, now that You
have guided us. Shower us with Your mercy; You are the Grantor.
Our Lord, You will surely gather the people on a day that is inevitable.
GOD never breaks a promise. (3:8-9)
You shall hold fast to the rope of GOD, all of you,
and do not be divided. Recall GOD's blessings upon you…. [3:103]
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,
as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will
receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. [Colossians 3:23,24]
Commit your work to the Lord, and then your plans
will succeed. [Proverbs 16:3]
Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you;
He will never let the righteous fall. [Psalm 55:22]
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