Two years ago I met the brothers and sisters who call the Islamic Center of San Gabriel Valley (ICSGV) home. It was an hour before maghrib (sunset prayer) when I parked my car in the gravel lot nearest the mosque, located in front of a construction site. As I walked toward the entrance, I slowed…
There was something special about the night my friend took her shahada (declaration of faith). I remember it was after praying ‘isha (the night prayer) when the imam announced the news to the congregation; I cried as the whole masjid erupted in takbeers (Allahu akbar) to praise Allah and welcome a new member to our community. That night, I felt the support of community. I felt peace from Allah.