The leader of the Islamic Community in Montenegro, Rifat Fejzić, expressed that Eid embodies joy and love, emphasizing that genuine faith is reflected through actions rather than mere words.

This year, the main Eid al-Fitr celebration took place at the Hadrović Mosque in Podgorica, as reported by Radio Fatih, which aired Fejzić’s complete Eid sermon.

“As we say goodbye to the month of Ramadan—a time spent in fasting and devotion to the Creator—we have savored its blessings within the walls of mosques and the comfort of our homes, wrapped in peace and freedom. We relished the joy of iftar, sharing moments with family, friends, and neighbors. Fasting has renewed our discipline towards ourselves and our compassion towards others. It enhanced our ability to empathize with the poor, the sick, and the marginalized, allowing us to feel the world through their hearts. It reminded us that the strength of a community is gauged not by its might and power, but by how well it supports its most vulnerable members. It rekindled our hope of attaining Allah’s (swt) mercy and promised rewards, for every deed of man is attributed to Him, except for fasting—fasting is solely for the Creator, and He rewards it in a unique way! Hence, the forthcoming Eid is a celebration filled with joy and love. Is every act of abstinence during Ramadan worth it on this day? All praise be to Him who grants us this occasion!

“Today, our joy is even more profound as we gather for Eid al-Fitr after a 70-year hiatus in the restored 18th-century Old Podgorica Mosque. This sacred space bears witness to the historical foundation of our community and our aspiration to enhance coexistence in Podgorica and Montenegro for everyone. The Holy Quran states, ‘And do not argue with the followers of the Book except in the most beautiful way.’ Most misunderstandings and conflicts stem from fear and ignorance. When we take the time to understand another’s story, beliefs, and values, the walls of mistrust begin to crumble. Societies that prioritize education on diverse cultures and inclusive politics foster environments devoid of hatred and division. ‘O mankind, We created you from a single soul and made you into nations and tribes that you may come to know one another,’ teaches the Creator in the Holy Quran.

“Confronting this truth, which is fundamental to every religion, moral code, and humane society, reveals that God created us equal and free. Each individual enters this world entitled to dignity and valued equally by God. Regardless of our skin color, nationality, gender, or any other attribute, we are all part of the same human family.

“If God has made us equal and endowed us with the freedom to choose, we must ask: who are we to deny one another these rights? Who are we to judge, to restrict, to infringe upon another’s freedom, while we claim our own right to it fully?

“History demonstrates that such attitudes lead to the greatest suffering. Slavery, wars, and discrimination are outcomes of human arrogance—moments when we forget that we are all equal in the eyes of God. The current condition of the world reflects this amnesia!

“Freedom is not a privilege but a gift that carries responsibility. We have the right to choose, but we must also recognize our duty to prevent causing pain and suffering to others through our decisions. The rights of some must not equate to the denial of the rights of others, nor should they result in the humiliation and oppression of anyone.

“God has not granted us freedom to exploit it for oppression and injustice, but rather to learn, grow, love, and support one another. True faith is manifested not through words but through actions—namely, in how we honor others and uphold their freedom and dignity. Human rights are not a mercy from the strong to the weak or from the majority to the minority; human rights are a matter of justice or they do not exist! Ultimately, we will all stand before our Master, not as rulers and subjects, but as equals in the human race.

“Dear believers, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reminded us that ‘whoever sees an evil must change it with his hand; if he cannot, then with his tongue; and if he cannot do even that, then with his heart, though this is the weakest form of faith.’ Thirteen centuries later, the renowned scientist and thinker Albert Einstein echoed this sentiment, asserting that the world will not be destroyed by evil people, but by those who stand by and do nothing! As Muslims, we are called to promote good and stand against evil until our last breath.

“Thus, let us spread the joy and hope that Eid brings. May the Creator be with us and all righteous individuals. May our actions benefit us, our immediate and wider communities, and the entire ummah. May the light of faith shine through us via solidarity, moderation, kind words, and care for all! May just peace prevail in the Holy Land and the world at large! In this spirit, I extend warm Eid greetings to Muslim men and women both in the country and in the diaspora! Eid mubarek olsun! Gezuar Eid,” concluded Fejzić.

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