Madina Mosque opens doors for Visit My Mosque day

Madina Mosque

Madina Mosque opened its doors on Sunday (5 February) as part of Visit My Mosque, a national campaign to allow people to gain a better understanding of Islam and ask questions about the religion.

The Mosque hosted an exhibition explaining everything from the basic pillars of Islam to why Muslim women cover their heads and answered questions such as:

• Why do Muslims all face the same way when they pray?
• Why do men and women pray separately?
• How hard is it to fast during Ramadan?

Nabeel Tariq, a member of the mosque, told visitors: “The Mosque is a community hub, a safe haven for everyone, Muslim and non-Muslim.

“In Newbold and Rochdale, we have an amazing community of ethnicities, religions and backgrounds. We all live together and it’s very important we work together”.

Nabeel added: “Our mosque is as much yours as it is ours.”

Among those listening were community support officers and firefighters from the local fire station.

Member of the public, Peter Corby, said: "Can I say a big thanks to everyone at Madina Mosque for their open day. This was very useful and one could not but be impressed by the warmth and sincerity of the presenters as they explained their faith.

“I hope everyone who attended got something useful and, whatever their faith, an understanding of and respect for others."

Amir Zia, the Mosque President, said: “Madina Masjid was proud to open up to the wider community. We are open to all; we want to live side by side. We don’t want people fearing us. They have nothing to fear; this is the ideal opportunity to reach out and educate people.

“We encourage people to visit our Mosque to learn about our work and to see how we can help the wider community with our projects."

Councillor Shakil Ahmed added: "It is a brilliant idea. Days like these allow the community to come together and learn about the many similarities we share.

“I'd like to thank everybody who attended and everybody who helped make this happen. I very much look forward to attending the next one."

Other local mosques that also took part in Visit My Mosque were Neeli Mosque and Golden Mosque.