I thank Dave Schmidt for his response (“Advice for the Imam,” Feb. 7) to my earlier letter (“New Ahmadi Imam,” Feb. 1) and his advice as to how I can be a good Samaritan.

I must begin by saying that Islam categorically rejects all forms of terrorism, at any place, against anyone. The Quran, our holy book, declares, “Whosoever killed an innocent person ... it shall be as if he had killed all mankind; and whoso gave life to one, it shall be as if he had given life to all mankind.” Hence, I strongly condemn all sorts of bloodshed and violence done in the name of Islam.

Religion should not be blamed for such acts; rather, those individuals and groups who are responsible for the killing of the innocents should be held accountable.

The writer mentioned I should go and convince “my own people.” We are trying to convince all people. But such terrorists are “my” people the same way the KKK are Christians’ people. All these extremists are people of their egos and self-interests and are using religion for their political gains and power.

Our message of peace is flourishing. I am an Imam for the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. We are established in 204 countries and are preaching the same message of peace and service to humanity everywhere. In fact, we have been in the United States for nearly 100 years.

Therefore, I invite all people of the greater Pittsburgh area, let us unite for the common cause of peace and service to humanity. Our door is open — and will always remain so.