A Special Night in Toronto in Memory of Fethullah Gulen

“From the Wooden Hut to a Bright Future”

The passing of Fethullah Gulen still resonates deeply around the world, and various events are being held across countries to honor his legacy. This weekend, a commemoration in Toronto, often regarded as the cultural capital of Canada, brought together participants from various backgrounds.

The memorial program held at the Dante Alighieri Academy’s conference center was organized by Toronto Young Professionals and The Canadian Turkish Friendship Community. With over seven hundred attendees from fields ranging from academia to art, sports to education, the event aimed to commemorate Fethullah Gulen’s life and humanitarian legacy, and to pass it on to future generations.

The event, titled ‘From the Wooden Hut to a Bright Future,’ began with a photo exhibition that depicted Gulen’s journey from a humble Anatolian village to becoming a globally recognized religious leader and thinker. The exhibition highlighted significant milestones in Gulen’s life. The exhibition also highlighted the history of the Hizmet Movement, which evolved under his leadership.

Dr. Hasan Ahmet Gokce: 'I believe that the peace we lived with him is overshadowed by the sadness of his absence.'

The formal program began with an opening speech by Dr. Hasan Ahmet Gokce, a prominent figure who was deeply familiar with his ideas. Discussing Gulen’s 'human-centered' approach and its impact on societies, Gokce emphasized how Gulen had been a guide and source of inspiration for him. 'The years spent with Hocaefendi turned even the deepest wells of sorrow into a rose garden; his absence, however, feels like a soft, melancholic breeze in this once-thriving garden. I believe that the peace gained in the years we shared with him far exceeds the sadness triggered by his absence.' Gokce’s words reminded the audience of the profound depth of Gulen’s humanitarian and intellectual legacy.

The unifying power of art took center stage in the second part of the program. Turkish Sufi music artist Suleyman Erkisi performed songs composed with the lyrics of Fethullah Gulen. Pieces such as Huzunlu Gurbet (Sad and Far Away) and Derd-i İsyana Muptelayım Ya Resulallah (I Am Afflicted with the Pain of Rebellion, O Messenger of God) provided the audience with a 'sorrowful' yet spiritual experience. The concert, which concluded with salawat and takbirs, filled the hall with a profound emotional resonance.

Dr. Jon Pahl: 'The oak tree, with its resilience, grandeur, wide branches, lush leaves, and gentle blooms, is one of the symbols that best reflects Hocaefendi.'

Another prominent speaker of the night was Dr. Jon Pahl, a history professor who wrote Gulen’s critical biography. Pahl analyzed Gulen’s messages of peace and dialogue, sharing how they impacted his own life. Reflecting on a 2006 Iftar gathering organized by Hizmet volunteers in Philadelphia, Pahl recounted how, despite almost being turned away due to parking issues, the event had a significant role in both his professional career and personal relationships. The award-winning author shared that this Iftar had led him to 'the best friends,' 'the best writings,' and 'the best books.' His statement that he delayed meeting Gulen until finishing his biography in order to maintain objectivity created a sense of surprise among the audience, which applauded him for his integrity.

At the conclusion of his talk, Dr. Pahl referred to his latest book and said: 'I am exploring the connection between people’s spiritual sides and plants. The oak tree, with its long life, resilience, grandeur, wide branches, lush leaves, and gentle blooms, is one of the symbols that best reflects Hocaefendi.' This meaningful analogy received great appreciation from the audience.

Throughout the evening, speeches exploring various aspects of Gulen’s humanitarian values were accompanied by visuals and video presentations. Notably, a poignant video prepared by young writer Gozen Yıldız had a profound effect on the participants.

Kemal Gulen: 'We will overcome this pain by embracing each other and crying together!'

The event concluded with Kemal Gulen taking the stage. Kemal Gulen, a seasoned presenter, approached Hocaefendi’s memory from three perspectives...: as a family member, an intellectual, and a Hizmet volunteer. Sharing Fethullah Gulen’s vision for life and idealism through personal anecdotes, his presentation created a warm atmosphere in the hall. Recalling his childhood memories, Kemal Gulen reflected on the excitement surrounding Gulen’s visits to their village, which became unforgettable moments of his youth. 'When it was announced that Hocaefendi would visit, everyone would become excited. The preparations, the food in the oven, the pastries rising, and the sweet syrups were something to behold. For 'Little Kemal,' Hocaefendi’s visits brought sweets, syrups, and the joy of pocket money – a truly priceless experience!' His words evoked sweet smiles among the guests. Emphasizing that the pain and sorrow of Hocaefendi’s absence could only be overcome by embracing each other more than ever and crying together, Gulen’s interactive dialogue with the audience enriched the final part of the program.

The event concluded with the screening of a short film inspired by Fethullah Gulen’s messages to youth, followed by the presentation of gifts to the attendees.