Muslims celebrate Eid in Chino

Scores of Ahmadi Muslims gathered on Wednesday, Nov. 17, at the Baitul Hameed Mosque in Chino to celebrate Eidul Azha, the festival of sacrifices.

Eidul Azha is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the willingness of the patriarch Abraham to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God.

Nearly a thousand members came from all over Southern California, including Los Angeles, Inland Empire, and Orange and San Diego counties; and joined to offer

the mid-morning prayer services.

Imam Shamshad Nasir led Eid prayers at about 10:30am. The congregational prayers were followed by a traditional Eid sermon delivered by Nasir, who also prayed for peace.

Imam Shamshad also commemorated the sacrifices of the prophet Abraham, his wife Hagar, and his son Ishmael. Today, the Muslims commemorate that original sacrifice of Abraham; through pilgrimage to Mecca and offering of sacrificial meets to the poor and needy. Those who are unable to go to Mecca still offer sacrifices at their

homes.