The eyes of a Muslim community were on a village near Farnham last week as its figurehead gave a milestone sermon to a global audience.

Thousands of Ahmadi Muslims came to Tilford on Monday (March 31) to observe the Eid-ul-Fitr sermon led by the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community (AMC).

The sermon led by His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, in the Mubarak Mosque was screened to an audience of millions through MTA International.

The Eid sermon led by the Caliph was impeccably observed with the watching masses joining their spiritual leader in a silent prayer.

His Holiness spoke of the true significance of Eid as a means to “permanently inculcate the virtues and piety” sought during the month of Ramadan.

The Caliph said: “This Eid is not just a day of celebration but also a day to pledge that we will continue all the good practices we observed during Ramadan. Only then will it be a true Eid.”

Imam Adeel Shah, said reflections on self-discipline, gratitude and service to humanity were part of the Eid celebrations.

“In the areas the Herald reaches and far beyond, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community remains committed to charity and contributing in our local areas, just as we have done throughout Ramadan,” said the Whitehill town and East Hampshire district councillor.

“Our Caliph’s Eid sermon reminded us of our duty to continue this work, for this is what Islam teaches us: to spread kindness, serve our neighbours and build a more compassionate, cohesive and collaborative society.”

The event took place a week-and-a-half after the AMC invited community figures from across East Hampshire and Waverley to a community Iftar at the Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre in Bordon.

The event was a great chance for guests to learn more about Ramadan and fasting.