In the UK, the Assalatur-Rahman Islamic Association (ARIA) traces its roots back to the inaugural late-night gathering in 1988. From the outset, a small collective of committed followers of the Islamic faith convened to share their spiritual experiences. Initially, these gatherings rotated between the homes of members who hosted night vigils every Friday lingering into the early hours of Saturday. The essence of these gatherings was to draw on the Holy Quran, evoking the blessings of the revered Prophet Mohammad (SAW) with the aim of placing their personal and collective affairs in the hands of Allah (SWT). Following this, a dialogue ensued regarding the general welfare, needs and concerns of their members. The Association's founding members were driven by an ambition to cultivate a sense of Islamic solidarity and fraternity. They sought to provide spiritual, moral, and financial backing for the vulnerable and disadvantaged, faced with the perceived adversities from their host community and its institutions. Prior to this, there was a noticeable absence of such support among the immigrant Muslim community. Alarmingly, some providers utilised their 'support services' to persuade members to convert to other faiths. Word soon spread about these gatherings, and they promptly became a staple for those seeking spiritual guidance or relief from their troubles. As the congregation grew, accommodation became a challenge. Individual homes were no longer adequate for the expanding group. This led the collective to successfully gain permission from the Muslim Association of Nigeria (MAN) in Old Kent Road, London, to use their premises for their weekly prayers. This took place in the spring of 1994. Around the same time, the group initiated daytime prayers on Sundays, for the convenience of its members, whilst maintaining their customary late Friday prayer sessions (Bushira night) held on the last Friday of every month.