In a remarkable convergence of spirituality and diplomacy, a sermon by Royal Australian Navy Imam Chaplain Mogamat Majidih Essa captivated the hearts and minds of thousands of Maldivians at Masjid Rasheed in Hulhumalé this month.

As Chaplain Essa spoke to an audience filled with reverence and hope, his address not only resonated within the mosque’s walls but transcended them. Televised nationally, many more thousands witnessed a vivid portrayal of community and dialogue in action.

In a world often fraught with division, the Friday ‘khutba’ on September 12 emerged as a beacon of unity and mutual respect among nations.

Chaplain Essa's visit to the Maldives for this second Friday sermon was marked by high-profile attendance, including Minister of Islamic Affairs Mohamed Shaheem, National Security Adviser Ibrahim Latheef and Australian High Commissioner David Jessup.

Their presence underscored the significance of this event, which celebrated the commencement of the ADF’s Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2025 initiative in the Maldives.

More than just a religious gathering, this khutba highlighted the shared commitment to fostering strong, bilateral ties rooted in respect and collaboration.

“Together, we aim to embody the essence of community – one that embraces diversity and strives for peace,” Chaplain Essa said.

His words resonated deeply with the Maldivian audience, who found solace in the connection established through common beliefs.

The congregation at Masjid Rasheed – a diverse mix of ages, backgrounds and experiences – symbolised the spirit of Islam that transcends borders. 

'Let us remember that our faith is a path toward peace, not just within our communities, but across borders.'

The Imam’s insightful reflections served as a reminder that in collective faith lies the potential for true strength and resilience.

The events highlight the crucial role of cooperation between nations. The High Commissioner, Mr Jessup, expressed gratitude to Dr Shaheem and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for making the engagements possible.

“This sermon is more than just a spiritual service; it is a gesture of trust and friendship between our countries. These community engagements are vital in fostering stronger bilateral relations driven by respect and understanding,” Mr Jessup said.

As the day drew to a close, the impactful words shared by Chaplain Essa continued to resonate in the hearts of Maldivians. His concluding message echoed the essence of peace.

“Let us remember that our faith is a path toward peace, not just within our communities but across borders,” Chaplain Essa said.

The sermon was a potent affirmation of the shared journey toward harmony, illustrating the idea that peace can be a collective reality through commitment and cooperation.

Chaplain Essa’s khutba served as a powerful example of how faith can act as a bridge between cultures and nations.

The gathering at Masjid Rasheed was not merely an event; it symbolised a renewed commitment to nurturing the bonds of friendship and understanding that unite everyone. In the increasingly complex landscape of global relations, moments like these are a reminder that our essence lies in our shared humanity – a legacy of faith that will resonate for years to come. 

Following the unprecedented success of the khutba, Chaplain Essa was invited to address more than 60 fellow religious leaders a few days later, again illustrating empowerment through dialogue.

He also spoke with Maldivian National Defence Force personnel on chaplaincy, suicide prevention and mental health during Indo-Pacific workshops.