April 3, 2026
The Islamic Restoration Society -IRES, in collaboration with local partners and community leaders, successfully hosted an Eid-al-Fitr celebration for the Muslim community at Drumheller Institution. This gathering served as a powerful reminder of the strength of faith and the importance of community connection in the journey toward spiritual growth and reintegration.
A Message of Mercy and Hope
The highlight of the event was the Friday prayer led by Sheikh Iqbal Gora, a prominent Imam from Calgary. During his sermon, Sheikh Iqbal spoke deeply on the themes of Allah’s limitless mercy and the power of sincere repentance.
He shared the profound story of a man who had committed 99 murders yet sought a path to redemption, illustrating that no door to forgiveness is ever truly closed. The Sheikh emphasized the divine promise that sincere repentance and a commitment to monotheism can wash away even the greatest of transgressions, offering a sense of peace and hope to all in attendance.
Fellowship and Celebration
A total of 68 Muslim inmates attended the celebration, which provided a rare and vital opportunity for fellowship. Beyond the spiritual guidance, the event focused on treating every participant with dignity and respect.
The celebration included:
• A Festive Meal: In partnership with Jerusalem Shawarma, attendees enjoyed a traditional meal of shawarma, baklava, and refreshments.
• Community Presence: Eight Representatives from various organizations joined the brothers to share words of encouragement and compassion. As one guest noted, the day was a “powerful” opportunity to share hope and remind those inside that they are not forgotten by the wider community.
Our Mission in Action
At IRES, we believe that restoring bonds—between the individual and their Creator, and between the individual and their community—is essential for true transformation. By bringing together spiritual leaders and community members for events like Eid, we help create an environment where individuals feel empowered to reach their God-given potential.
“Brothers really appreciate being visited and treated with dignity. It makes a difference to receive congratulations and celebration from the community during these holy times.” — Event Coordinator
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers and donors who made this successful day possible. Together, we continue to build a more compassionate and harmonious society.
*Representational Image is made by AI and not an actual photo of the event.*
