October 20, 2025 – The Intercultural Dialogue Institute (IDI) joins communities around the world in marking the first anniversary of the passing of Fethullah Gülen, a globally respected Muslim scholar, educator, and advocate for peace and interfaith dialogue.

Mr. Gülen’s vision continues to inspire millions through the Hizmet (Service) Movement, a worldwide initiative that promotes education, civic responsibility, and harmony among people of all backgrounds. His message of compassion and cooperation aligns deeply with IDI’s mission to build inclusive communities through dialogue, understanding, and service.

A Lifelong Commitment to Knowledge and Understanding

For more than six decades, Fethullah Gülen devoted his life to advancing education, interfaith engagement, and humanitarian service. Born in Turkey, he became one of the world’s most influential Muslim thinkers—championing science, democracy, and peaceful social transformation.

In 1998, Mr. Gülen met Pope John Paul II in a symbolic act of mutual respect between faiths. He was also one of the first Muslim leaders to publicly condemn the September 11 attacks, calling for unity and rejecting all forms of violence and extremism.

His lifelong advocacy for non-violence and universal ethics earned him global recognition, including the Gandhi King Ikeda Peace Award, Manhae Peace Prize, and nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize. TIME Magazine listed him among the 100 Most Influential People in 2013.

Through his teachings and example, Mr. Gülen encouraged people of faith to serve their communities, learn from one another, and work toward a peaceful and compassionate society—values that remain central to IDI’s educational and community programs.

The Enduring Impact of the Hizmet Movement

The Hizmet (Service) Movement, inspired by Mr. Gülen’s philosophy, has grown into a global civil society initiative spanning more than 160 countries. Its schools, dialogue centers, and charitable organizations continue to empower people through education, intercultural connection, and volunteerism.

Mr. Gülen’s philosophy highlights four key principles that guide both Hizmet and IDI’s work today:

• Education as empowerment — nurturing minds and hearts to create ethical, informed citizens.

• Dialogue as connection — building mutual understanding among people of diverse faiths and cultures.

• Service as faith in action — translating compassion into concrete efforts for the common good.

• Peace and democracy as shared responsibility — upholding justice, human rights, and civic participation.

His writings and speeches continue to inspire dialogue leaders, educators, and volunteers across the globe, affirming that service to humanity is the truest path to divine love.

Continuing His Vision Through IDI’s Mission

As the Hizmet Movement evolves beyond any single leader, its values remain vibrant in the work of thousands of volunteers and organizations worldwide.

In Canada, IDI carries forward this vision by fostering spaces where people from all walks of life can connect, learn, and collaborate for the common good.

Through its programs in education, interfaith dialogue, civic engagement, and social responsibility, IDI helps translate Mr. Gülen’s ideals into local action—strengthening the bonds that unite communities in diversity.

IDI encourages everyone to honor his memory through meaningful action:

• Support educational opportunities for youth and underserved communities.

• Engage in interfaith and intercultural dialogue to overcome barriers and misconceptions.

• Volunteer and serve locally, uplifting those in need through compassion and cooperation.

• Promote democratic values and human rights that ensure dignity for all.

• Learn and share Gülen’s writings, spreading his universal call for peace, respect, and understanding.

A Call to Reflection and Service

On this anniversary, IDI Ottawa and its chapters across Canada invite all people of conscience to remember Fethullah Gülen not only for his profound scholarship but for his unwavering belief in humanity’s potential for good.

We pray for peace upon his soul and for the continued flourishing of his ideals.

As Mr. Gülen often reminded his followers, “The best way to commemorate is to serve.”

Let his legacy remind us that each act of kindness, each moment of dialogue, and each effort toward justice brings us one step closer to the compassionate world he envisioned.