Visiting M. Fethullah Gülen (Hocaefendi)
Honoring a Life of Wisdom, Faith, and Service
On April 12th, 2025, the Youth Collective team visited the resting place of the esteemed scholar, M. Fethullah Gülen Hocaefendi, whose wisdom and service continue to guide generations. May Allah have mercy on him and elevate their rank among the righteous.
We first visited the main building in the Chestnut Retreat Center where he stayed for the last 20 years. We were able to pray in the room where he held lectures and performed group prayers. After that, we had the honor of touring his study room and experiencing the simple, deeply spiritual lifestyle he led. The room was filled with books, prayer rugs, and signs of his lifelong devotion to faith and learning. We also had a chance to walk around the retreat grounds and take in the serene environment that had been his home.
Later in the visit, one of his students gave us a heartfelt speech about Hocaefendi’s journey to the U.S., the struggles he faced, and the impact he had in shaping the Hizmet Movement. Hearing these stories firsthand gave us a deeper appreciation for his legacy and the values he lived by. It was a moment that grounded us in gratitude and responsibility as members of the same community.
Finally, we visited his resting place, located just next to the main building. The atmosphere was peaceful and filled with reverence. We gathered together and made a prayer (dua) for him. Standing there, we reflected on his immense contribution to knowledge, education, dialogue, and spirituality. His presence is still felt in the quiet strength of the center and the hearts of those he inspired.
As we prayed, we remembered his final request: “I want to be close to the prayers that you will be making, so once it is time for me to go, please make sure my resting place is right here in this retreat center.”
