The Origins of Our Charitable Group
A group of friends started the Organization for Islamic Learning (OIL) in 1997 when they realized the need to share Islam in a way that promoted spirituality rather than just the rituals, which had become the overwhelming focus within their communities. They felt that they were losing the Canadian youth who did not necessarily observe or follow the traditions of their parents.
It was decided to form an association that would bring high-calibre scholars from many parts of the world to share their knowledge in a relevant, stimulating and thought-provoking manner in order to engage the community through participation and dialogue. From the very beginning, OIL has endeavoured to encourage open discussions where diverse opinions on various issues of our faith can be shared without fear of reproach.
OIL’s motto is “Enlightenment Through Awareness.” We come together to pray, grow, learn and build friendships as individuals and families. This allows us to attain a heightened level of spiritual and moral commitment that promotes piety and charity, which are the essence of Islam.
Over the past 20 years, as an organization with our foundation fundamentally connected to the Shia Muslim community, OIL has taken great pride in our signature Muharram programs. At the same time, we have organized Ramadhan lectures, fundraised with other Muslim groups for Humber River Hospital and local food banks, participated with MOSAIC group on interfaith dialogues, presented OILtalks and sponsored three Syrian refugee families to resettle in Canada. In our dedication to enlightenment we have also organized spiritual retreats to discuss topics such as “Irfan”—similar to the Sufi path. As a community-driven group, all this has been made possible by a deeply loyal membership that believe in the original vision and is actively leading us through our third decade.
OIL’s Board of Directors has made a commitment to gender equality in the management of the organization and today it is comprised equally of women and men. We welcome everyone, especially the younger members of our communities, to come forward and help in the development of the mission of Islam.