The Final Call

Back to Our Roots: Final Call ministry returns

By Starla Muhammad -Assistant Editor- | Last updated: Aug 6, 2014 - 6:09:25 PM

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CHICAGO - The Final Call Administration building is not only home to an award winning independent Black-owned newspaper and repository of books, CD’s, DVD’s and information for the propagation of Islam and upliftment of Black men and women; it is a central hub for a growing community ministry.

Audience listens to spiritual message. Photos: Haroon Rajaee

Eighteen months ago, when the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan began his 58-week online lecture series, “The Time and What Must Be Done,” much of which was fi lmed and recorded on site at the building, the Muslim leader issued a command. One Final Call General Manager, Fontaine Muhammad strived to move out on.

“The Minister often would mention the fact that he desired that it happen in a quick fashion, that we reopen the Final Call for the teaching of the word and go after our suffering brothers and sisters in this community, which is Auburn-Gresham,” said Fontaine Muhammad.

Men in the audience pray at the start of Wednesday night meeting at the Final Call Administration building.

In the early 1980s when Min. Farrakhan was rebuilding the Nation of Islam and prior to the reacquisition of The National Center, the N.O.I’s, international headquarters on the city’s Southside, meetings were held at the Final Call Administration building. Min. Farrakhan taught there frequently.

During the past year, with the exception of inclement weather that struck during the winter, the building is open without fail to community residents for Wednesday night spiritual meetings.

“By Allah’s Grace and Mercy on June 19, 2013 we were blessed. Student Minister Ishmael Muhammad came over, and we opened up the Final Call once again for the teaching of the message of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad as taught by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan,” said Fontaine Muhammad.

“We have been so blessed to receive literally hundreds of our poor and suffering people that we would have never had any communication or true contact with. But in the opening of this building once again this historic landmark for the teaching of the word we have been able to make a profound difference in the lives of many and Insha’Allah (God-willing) we will not stop,” he added.

One of the highlights of the weekly meetings occurred, July 16 during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of prayer and fasting in which particular duty and attention is focused on the poor and those less fortunate. Over 80 people attended and were fed spiritually and physically.

The Final Call Administration building 734 W. 79th Street in Chicago.

Spearheaded by Sisters Amani Nia and Aliyah who desired to feed the brothers and sisters in the community, they coordinated efforts with Fontaine Muhammad. Delicious bean soup, farina muffi ns, fi sh, rice, bean pie and iced-tea was served to guests and visitors.

The people who have attended the meetings come for different reasons. Some are hungry, need an uplifting message or spiritual guidance. Fontaine Muhammad, who is also a student minister, delivers the messages on Wednesday nights. Presenters have also included student minister Jeffrey Muhammad of Mosque Maryam, Dr. Ava Muhammad, student National Spokesperson of the Nation of Islam and Min. Farrakhan and Ishmael R. Muhammad, National Assistant to Min. Farrakhan.

Fontaine Muhammad thanked Min. Farrakhan for his direction, guidance and instruction in reopening the Final Call Administration building for meetings. He also thanked the brothers and sisters who have been instrumental in their hard work, dedication and continued assistance in making the Wednesday meetings impactful in a community that needs it. He thanked the student ministers, Michelle Muhammad, Robert 22X, Robert Muhammad, Michael 18X, Theotis Muhammad, Yusuf Muhammad, Alice Muhammad, Lisa R. Muhammad and the M.G.T. and F.O.I. that assist every week holding various post assignments.

“Our aim is to teach the word that will change lives, improve the condition of our people, will bring an end to some of this senseless violence but most of all, will lift our people spiritually, morally, mentally, socially and give them some freedom, justice and equality,” said Fontaine Muhammad.