Is what the Imam did by designating collective remembrances (dhikr) and acts of worship on Friday night, such as glorifying God (tasbih), sending blessings upon the Prophet, reciting Surat al-Kahf, and performing Qiyam al-Layl collectively, considered an innovation (bid'ah) similar to what Ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) condemned in those who sat in circles for remembrance without the guidance of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him)?

Gathering for dhikr (remembrance of Allah) with a specific number [of repetitions] or a fixed time, or performing qiyam al-layl (night prayer) communally at set times, are innovations (bid'ah) and reprehensible acts, as explained by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, may Allah be pleased with him. As for reciting Surat Al-Kahf communally, if the intention is that one person recites while others listen, or each person recites to themselves, then this is permissible. However, reciting the Quran communally in one voice is not legislated except for teaching purposes, due to the disturbance and contradiction to contemplation that results from it, and its deviation from the practice of the Salaf (pious predecessors).