Shahid Empathy Circle
The Shahid Empathy Circle: A Monthly Space to Be Present
A monthly support group with Ruhayyah Ferrante & Friends
A quiet place to be witnessed
There is a beautiful Jami’ Initiative offering that is an opportunity to deepen how we witness what Allah moves within us, without distraction and without pressure to be or do anything except be present.
The Shahid Empathy Circle is a monthly practice of silent presence. It is time and space to connect with yourself, to speak what wants to be known or understood, or to listen to another person. We hold everything in the knowledge that all things mirror and reflect Allah.
How the circle holds you
As brothers and sisters on the way, we create this container together. We anchor our hearts in the safety of Allah as our Guide and Witness, trusting that Allah is with us in our thinking, our emotions, and our needs. When we listen deeply, Allah moves us either to speak or to be still, to hear and to understand.
Most of us arrive carrying a sense that something needs fixing, analyzing, or evaluating. In this circle, we practice letting that go. We learn to be with whatever arises, following Allah’s lead, and we set down judgment, blame, and shame enough to be fully here, now.
What a session looks like
Each circle opens by becoming present with our Lord through the Fatiha, dhikr (the Ash-Shahid), and a moment of centering or breathing. Then each person has the chance for a one-word or short check-in, depending on how large the group is. After that, the circle is open for silence and sharing. You can speak when you feel moved, or stay silent. Silent presence is a full and meaningful practice for many people.
What you’ll find here
Whether you meet difficulty or ease, the shahid of your heart witnesses and listens. When it is prompted to speak, it can share from a more awake and connected place. When we speak from presence, our trust in Allah has room to grow, and the heart becomes fertile ground for the soul to flourish.
This circle offers many chances to deepen your relationship with yourself, and potentially with others and with Allah.
Dates and times
Second Wednesdays, 2026:
Time: 8:00–9:00 am PT / 11:00 am–12:00 pm ET
Before you join
Please read the two guides before your first session:
The guidelines ask you to silence your phone, keep your camera on, and treat what is shared in the circle as confidential. No one is obligated to share.
All are welcome!
