This Saturday is a chance to be a part of a unique experience as the
Grand Rapids Islamic Masjid and Religious Institute opens their doors for an event they are calling “Know Your Muslim Neighbor.”
For this special day, folks in the community are encouraged to bring the family and friends to the masjid (Arabic for mosque) for a chance to learn more about the world’s largest religion.
No, this is not a veiled attempt to convert anyone but a true community outreach to help our city’s curious to better understand this member of our society.
While on this tour you’ll visit the Prayer Hall, learn about the Quran, try on a Hijab, and event learn how to write your name in Arabic.
One area of interest that really stands out is the opportunity to speak with not just a Muslim teen and a Muslim woman but to ask questions of a Muslim refugee.
Judging by the popularity of the most recent sold out ArtPrize film about immigrants, “
Human Flow” by Ai Weiwei, this element of the program should be most fascinating.
While at the masjid you can get a henna tattoo or try one of the many foods and drinks from the Muslim nations represented at this event. (In fact, if you like something you tried, then there is a good chance it can be procured at the wonderful
Super Green Market just North of the masjid.)
According to the Islamic Mosque and Religious Institute website, they seek to draw its guidance from the Noble Qur'an and the Sunah. They are dedicated to the advancement of Muslims and society at large. They serve the ethnically diverse Muslim community within the West Michigan region.
So if you seeking a wonderfully structured learning experience from a member of our faith community, please consider a stop this Saturday at the Islamic Mosque and Religious Institute.
UPDATE:
The response has been so overwhelmingly positive that the center has issued these few items to enhance your experience as you prepare to visit on Saturday. And no worries if you cannot make it today, the
Grand Rapids Islamic Masjid and Religious Institute will be looking to host another welcoming event in January 2018. Be sure to like their
Facebook page to be alerted of this next event.
1. Parking may be limited. You can park in our parking lot, the parking lot directly across the street, or the mosque next door to ours. Please carpool if you can! We will have security there to assist you.
2. Adult and teen women are asked to dress modestly and wear scarves on the main level. If you have a scarf that covers all of your hair, please bring one with you. We will have a limited supply but it may delay your tour if we run out.
3. You will be asked to remove your shoes when taking the tour of the main level so slip-ons would be advised. You might like to bring a bag to carry them in or we have shelves in our coat room. We have shoe covers for disabled and elderly people who cannot remove their shoes. Again, we only have a limited supply, which could delay your visit.
4. This is an open house so no "program" is planned. Feel free to take the tour, ask questions, and enjoy the activities in our lower level. Plan on an hour for your visit.