Islam is starting to become one of the fastest growing religions in the world. Although the United States is not really known to boast a high population of Muslims, there are quite a number of them out there. In New York City, Muslims tend to originate from the Middle East and South Asian Countries. In Islam, a mosque is generally the term for a house of worship. Typically, all males are required to pray in a mosque while it is optional for women to pray in mosques if such is allowed. Thus, a mosque is of great importance to the people of Islam.
On many mosques often one will see the inscription of the Shahadah on the walls both outside and inside. The Shahadah is basically the declaration of faith every Muslim must recite. In English translation it is understood as “There is no God but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God.”
The Muslim Center of New York has the Shahadah inscription written on the dome of the mosque. The Muslim Center has daily congregations for each of the five prayers. It also has a school for elementary aged children to learn about Islam. There are lessons that teach about the Holy Quran including quizzes offered to children about the Holy Quran. The school functions as a regular educational school with a focus on Islam. There are sports activities, art class, computer lab sessions, and many other learning experiences.
The Muslim Center of New York provides services to its community. These include financial help to those who really need it. Counseling service is available for those who need assistance in social or mental problems. A funeral service is also available for families who want to properly take care of their past loved ones.
Islamic Seminars and Conferences can also be held at the center. A library and reading room is available for those who wish to read books about Islam. This center has everything that a Muslim person can ask for. The Muslim Center of New York allows Muslims to better understand the religion of Islam.
Photo by Jamilur Reja
Location: 137-58 Geranium Ave, Flushing, NY 11355
Phone: (718) 460-3000
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