Sowing Seeds In Italy

“A Seed Requires Fertile Ground” In May 2025, Shaykh Yahya Rhodus of Al Maqasid made his first official visit to Italy for a series of teaching and da'wah engagements. He was accompanied by Shaykh Musab Penfound and Ustadh Maurizio Di Nallo. This journey marked an important step in Al Maqasid’s growing outreach in Europe, with the aim of supporting emerging Muslim communities through knowledge, devotion, and service. Perugia Retreat: A Prophetic Gathering in the Heart of Umbria The visit began in the peaceful countryside of Perugia, in central Italy, where a multi-day retreat took place at the Dandelion Retreat Centre. Surrounded by the rolling hills of Umbria, the setting offered a space for meaningful learning and reflection. Shaykh Yahya and Shaykh Musab led the sessions, with Ustadh Maurizio providing clear Italian translation to make the content accessible to all participants. The retreat focused on Prophetic teachings and the importance of building strong communities. It explored both the inward and outward aspects of the Sunnah. The schedule included structured lessons, daily gatherings of dhikr (remembrance), and small group reflections that helped foster a spirit of unity and spiritual awareness. Attendees came from across Italy, with some traveling from other parts of Europe to benefit from the opportunity to learn in a close and personal setting with traditionally trained scholars. Brother Mosaab, the founder of the retreat centre, is deeply committed to permaculture. He prepared nourishing organic meals each day using local ingredients, many of which were grown onsite. His approach to sustainability went beyond the food he served. He also offered a session on soil cultivation and regenerative land practices, offering subtle but meaningful parallels between caring for the earth and nurturing the heart. A Historic Visit to Sicily: Beauty in Continuity After the retreat, the teachers traveled south to Sicily, a region with a rich but often forgotten Islamic history. Sicily was once under Muslim leadership for nearly 250 years. In Palermo, they visited a historic mosque that had previously served as a church. There, Shaykh Yahya and Shaykh Musab gave a talk titled “Prophetic Beauty,” focusing on how believers can embody the example of the Prophet ﷺ both inwardly through character and intention, and outwardly through actions and worship. The time spent in Sicily also allowed the teachers to meet with local Muslims, including both long-established families and recent converts. These personal encounters offered a clearer picture of the lives, challenges, and aspirations of Muslims living in Italy today. Topics ranged from identity to the need for consistent spiritual education and connection. Looking Ahead This visit to Italy was a moment of growth, relationship-building, and laying the groundwork for future efforts. The positive response from attendees, many of whom expressed a desire for regular access to learning and guidance, highlighted the value of continued presence and support. We ask that this journey becomes a lasting source of benefit and renewal for all who took part. May what was planted during these days grow into strong and fruitful expressions of faith. Al Maqasid remains committed to supporting the growth of Islam in Italy and looks forward to future opportunities to return.