Interfaith Iftar: Finding Faith Through Community Service | Kashef Qaadri
2025-03-16 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
*MCC Congregation*: Space is limited. Please only RSVP if you are attending with a friend, neighbor, or coworker of another faith.*
Please join us this Sunday evening for an Iftar dinner experience as we observe the holy month of Ramadan and help create a better society by learning about one another. Before dinner, we will be joined by the Vice Mayor of Dublin, Kashef Qaadri, who will share his journey on finding faith through serving the community.
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Sunday, March 16 | MCC East Bay | Register at: mcceastbay.org/interfaith-iftar
Space is limited at this interfaith Iftar.
MCC congregation members: Please attend ONLY if they accompany a friend, co-worker, or neighbor of another faith or nonfaith.
Iftar means ‘fast-breaking,’ and it is an integral part of the Muslim community’s life during the sacred month of Ramadan. Muslims break their daily Ramadan fast with a community dinner called an “iftar.”
Please RSVP your attendance so we can make sure to have adequate food.
Interfaith Iftar Event Schedule

– 6:15 p.m. – Arrival & Socializing
– 6:30 p.m. – The program begins with Vice Mayor Kashef Qaari
– 7:20 p.m. – Call to Prayer and Breaking of Fast with dates and water
– 7:27 p.m. – Prayer at Sunset in Prayer Hall (Maghrib) followed by Iftar Dinner in Banquet Hall

This is the seventh community Iftar in the Tri-Valley.

– Here is the 2017: “What Ramadan Means to Me:” https://youtu.be/tiJgEJT-DM8
– Here is the 2018 “Why Faith Matters:” https://youtu.be/5J8rL9Hepog
– Here is the 2019 “Loving Across the Difference”: https://youtu.be/JzK7JexOxLw
– Here is the 2022: “Loving Across the Difference”: https://youtu.be/Hb8_0IUwCBU
– Here is the 2023: “Moses in Islamic & Jewish Tradition”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DU_na-MYy9Y&t
– Here is the 2024: “Food, Faith & Fasting”: https://youtu.be/-b4qEhICLbA

The Holy month of Ramadan
“Iftar” is the fast-breaking meal observed each evening at sundown during the holy month of Ramadan. The Interfaith Iftar Dinner allows the whole community to join our Muslim friends for an evening meal as they break their Ramadan fast.
Ramadan in America
Ramadan is about renewing a Muslim’s commitment to God and undergoing a physical and spiritual training program to increase intimacy with his or her faith.
The reward for a successful Ramadan is no less than the forgiveness of all sins. Imagine starting with a new slate clean with God! So, in addition to all the improvements Ramadan can make in one’s character and health, we get the slate erased and can start over. (All our good deeds remain; only the bad deeds disappear). With all these benefits derived from the observance of this blessed month, is it any wonder that Ramadan is the best time of the year for every Muslim?
A surprising number of people of other faiths also observe the Ramadan fast here in North America. They recognize the disciplining effects of the fast and use their time to come closer to God. Every year, Islamic centers receive calls from non-Muslims asking how the fast is performed and where they can get a month-long chart showing the start and end times of each day’s fast. Employers and schools are also beginning to make accommodations for the needs of their Muslim workers and students.
Because the month of Ramadan falls about a week earlier every year, as the lunar calendar rotates backward through the solar, Muslims experience differing conditions in their fast. The fasting period is more extended in the summer and shorter in the winter.
There are also occasions to fast throughout the rest of the year. The Prophet Muhammad’s habit was to fast twice weekly, Mondays and Thursdays.
Children in Ramadan
Children will be present during the prayers, whether participating, watching, or, in the case of younger children, imitating the movements of their elders. Their presence continues the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, who was very tender toward children. The Prophet sometimes carried one of his grandchildren on his shoulder while leading the prayer and was also known to shorten the prayer if he heard a baby cry.
More about Ramadan
There are no special preparations to begin the month of Ramadan. Some Muslims fast in anticipation of the month. Muslims understand that it is going to be a month of intense religious devotion and a time of self-denial: no food, drink, sex, profanity, fighting, or lying allowed from first light to sundown. The main components of the month consist of two meals: one before sunrise and the other at sunset.
One particular night of Ramadan has special significance. It is the exact night the Qur’anic revelation was first revealed to Muhammad in 610 C.E. It is known as Laylat ul Qadr, or the Night of Power. According to the Prophet Muhammad, it falls on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan. Many Muslims stay up all night seeking the Lord’s forgiveness and guidance.
Thank you for joining us.
The Iftar, or “fast-breaking,” is an integral part of the Muslim community’s life during the sacred month of Ramadan. At sunset every day of the month, Muslims gather in homes and mosques to break their fast together. This communal meal comes after a day of self-discipline in which Muslims abstain from food and drink and make an extra effort to avoid impatience and harsh words. After eating, Muslims will spend the evening seeking the pleasure of God through contemplation and prayer.
The Islamic Greeting
The Islamic greeting frequently heard in the mosque is the Arabic phrase, “as-salaam alaykum” (“peace be with you”). It is returned by saying, “wa alaykum as-salaam (“and with you be peace”).”
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan (pronounced rom-a-don) is the ninth month of the lunar calendar used by Muslims. This month is special because the Qur’an (Islamic scripture) was first revealed in this month. During Ramadan, all healthy adult Muslims fast by abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset. They also strive to abstain from all evil speech and actions. It is recommended that each Muslim read the entire Qur’an during this month.
When will the fast be broken?
At sunset, the adhan (call to prayer) will be made. This call to prayer is always recited melodiously in the Arabic language. The adhan signals Muslims to break their fasts, often done with the traditional three dates and water. Before sitting down to a meal, Muslims stand together for the sunset prayer, one of five prayers Muslims must make daily.
The Call to Prayer (translation)
God is Most Great, God is Most Great
God is Most Great, God is Most Great
I bear witness that there is no god but (the One) God
I bear witness that there is no god but (the One) God
I bear witness that Muhammad is a Messenger of God
I bear witness that Muhammad is a Messenger of God
Hasten to prayer, Hasten to prayer
Hasten to success, Hasten to success
God is Most Great, God is most Great
There is no god but (the One) God
The Sunset Prayer
After the call to prayer, Muslims will hasten to the mats to line up for congregational prayer. They will form tight ranks, symbolizing unity and equality within the Muslim community. Men and women form separate lines for the prayer to maintain modesty and concentration during the physical movements of standing, bowing, and prostration. Their separation does not indicate any relative superiority or inferiority.
The prayer begins as the Imam, or prayer leader, raises his hands with the words “Allahu Akbar (“God is the Most Great”)” From that moment, worshippers are required to devote total concentration to the prayer as they follow the words and actions of the Imam.
The Imam first recites the opening chapter of the Qur’an (entitled al-fatiha) aloud and follows this with more Qur’anic verses of his choosing. After the recitation, worshippers bow and prostrate in unison, silently glorifying God.
When will the fast be broken?
The prayer ends as worshippers turn their faces to either side with the Arabic words “Peace be with you and the mercy of God.” Some of the congregation will then stand to leave, while others will add their devotions.
Al-Faitha (Translation)
The Qur’an’s opening chapter is akin to the “Lord’s Prayer”
In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
Praise be to God, Lord of the Worlds,
The Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful
Ruler of the Day of Judgment
Only You do we worship, Only You we ask for help
Show us the straight path
The path of those whom You have favored
Not that of those who earn Your anger nor those who go astray.
The Iftar
After completing the sunset prayer, Muslims join in a joyous and nutritious meal. Because Islam is a global religion, many special Ramadan foods are enjoyed by different ethnic groups: soups, salads, rice dishes, meats, and sweets.
During Ramadan, Muslims begin their meals “O God, for you I fasted, and in You I believe, and with Your provision I broke my fast. After eating, Muslims say “al-hamdu lillah (“Thanks be to God”).”
The Night Prayer
The final of the five daily prayers is said as night falls. Like the four other prayers, it is preceded by the adhan and is carried out in the congregation.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Lead the Way!: How to Serve On Your City's Local Boards & Commissions | Moina Shaiq (Bay Area Muslim Council)
2025-09-27 10:00 - 11:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Join a longtime East Bay-based Community Activist and Civic Leader, Moina Shaiq, to learn how to apply for city and county boards, understand their roles and responsibilities, and explore ways to make a meaningful impact through public service.
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. | Saturday, Sep. 27 | MCC Conference Room | Free | Join us in person or watch virtually at mcceastbay.org/live
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Moina Shaiq is an East Bay-based community activist and civic leader recognized for promoting inclusion, fostering interfaith dialogue, and encouraging political engagement.
She helped shape the policies & projects that affect our everyday lives, as well as connected with local officials and neighbors.
For under 10 hours a month in local civic leadership, you too can leave a lasting and meaningful legacy. Join us to learn how to apply.
This workshop is open to all who want to strengthen Muslim representation and advocacy in decision-making spaces. We will have tea, coffee, and snacks.
Sponsored by Bay Area Muslim Council & MCC East Bay.
The Bay Area Muslim Council’s mission is to empower local Muslim representation in politics 🗳️🤝. From city councils to school boards, they’re building a future where Muslim voices are not only heard — but lead. 💪🏽📢 They focus on community organizing, civic education, and coalition building across the Bay Area 🤲🏽🌁. They’re here to ensure our communities are informed, mobilized, and represented in the places where decisions are made.

About the Speaker:
Moina Shaiq is a longtime community activist and civic leader in the East Bay, California. Since immigrating from Pakistan in 1978, she has dedicated herself to strengthening democracy through civic engagement, interfaith dialogue, and public service. She founded the Muslim Support Network and is best known for her “Meet a Muslim” initiative, which fosters open conversations to break down stereotypes and build trust. Moina has served on numerous city and county boards and commissions, advocating for inclusion, equity, and representation. Her work highlights the importance of everyday citizens stepping into civic and political spaces to create lasting change.
Bay Area Muslim Council (BAMC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating civic-minded Muslim Americans in the San Francisco Bay Area. Through education, leadership training, and community partnerships, they prepare individuals to serve on local boards, commissions, and civic initiatives, while building bridges across diverse communities.
Their mission is to foster ethical leadership, strengthen representation, and promote service that benefits the common good. By investing in leaders at the neighborhood level and creating pathways for long-term civic engagement, they aim to ensure that Muslim Americans are recognized not only as part of the civic fabric but as leaders who give back and contribute to the well-being and progress of all.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

The Bay Area Muslim Council’s mission is to empower local Muslim representation in politics 🗳️🤝. From city councils to school boards, they’re building a future where Muslim voices are not only heard — but lead. 💪🏽📢 They focus on community organizing, civic education, and coalition building across the Bay Area 🤲🏽🌁. They’re here to ensure our communities are informed, mobilized, and represented where decisions are made.

Please also join the Bay Area Muslim Council for an inspiring evening of Empowering Hyperlocal Representation with influential voices shaping civic action and political change!
📅 Saturday, October 4, 2025
📍 Fremont, CA | 🕔 5:00 PM
🎤 Featuring:
• Mehdi Hasan – Founder of Zeteo
• Josh Paul – Former US Official
• Lateefah Simon – US Representative
• Imam Tahir Anwar – Civic Leader
✅ Register now at BAMCouncil.org/RSVP
#BayAreaMuslims #CivicEngagement #Representation #communitypower

Invitation! Interfaith Worship Experience Visit MCC | Sidi Mahdy Amine
2025-10-03 15:40 - 16:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Interfaith Worship Experience Visit:

Muslim Community Center East Bay
Friday Prayer, October 3, 2025 at 3:40pm
5724 West Las Positas Blvd.,#300, Pleasanton

Please arrive by 3:30 p.m. to find parking in the MCC parking lot.* Overflow parking is in the Pleasanton Unified School District parking lot next door. Volunteers will be stationed in the parking lot to direct you. Modest clothing requested. There will be head scarves available for women who wish to wear one. You can choose to sit on the ground or seats in the Prayer Hall for the 20-minute sermon. The congregation stands for prayer at 4 p.m. followed by community announcements. Afterwards, there will be light refreshments and an opportunity to meet with Mahdy Amine and some MCC outreach members in the Banquet Hall.

Flyer attached.

If you would like to attend: RSVP to interfaith.interconnect@gmail.com.

*Parking lot map: http://mcceastbay.org/district

Interfaith Interconnect is offering this series of visits to allow members of our different faith communities share their traditional worship services. All are welcome. We hope you can join us on October 3rd!

Marcia Elchesen, Coordinator
and the Interfaith Interconnect Leadership Committee
2025 Oct3 MCC Friday Prayer Interfaith Visit

Become a U.S. Citizen | Free CAIR Immigration Clinic @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2025-10-17 14:00 - 17:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Are you interested in becoming a U.S. citizen? CAIR-SFBA‘s legal team offers free Citizenship Clinics to support you through every step of the naturalization process, from assessing your eligibility and assisting with fee waivers to completing your application and preparing you for your interview.
Join us at one of our upcoming clinics, and let our team help you on your journey.
CAIR-SFBA Immigration attorneys will be at MCC during the three MCC Jumu’ah (1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 3:40 p.m.) to provide you with free legal assistance with naturalization and fee waiver applications. To become a U.S. citizen, you must be 18 and a legal permanent resident for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.).
Friday, Oct. 17, 2025 | 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. | MCC Conference Room | In-person only | Registration required | Register at mcceastbay.org/clinic
If you miss the MCC event, CAIR-SFBA will also have Free Citizenship Clinics:

– 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025 at the Peninsula Muslim Association in Mountain View
– 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025 at SABA Center in San Jose.

Register here.
If you have an urgent inquiry or are unable to attend the immigration clinic, please call CAIR at (408) 986-9874.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
During this clinic, attorneys will provide:

– Presentation on the citizenship process and eligibility.
– Free legal consultation to determine eligibility.
– Free legal assistance with Naturalization and Fee Waiver applications.
– Interpretation services in Arabic, Dari, Pashto, Urdu, Turkish/Azerbaijani, and Russian.

What to Bring:

– Green Card and Social Security card.
– Passport(s).
– Job history and home addresses for the last five years.
– List of trips abroad in the last five years.
– Family information for all children and spouses (current and former).
– Arrest records, if arrested and/or cited.
– To apply for Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee: Latest tax return and/or proof of public benefits (such as food stamps, cash aid, SSI, etc.)

Questions? event@mcceastbay.org
CAIR-SFBA is hosting several upcoming citizenship clinics. During these events, attorneys will provide free legal assistance with naturalization and fee waiver applications.

Once you have filled out the form a member of our team will send you more information about how to participate in the clinic. If you have an urgent inquiry or are unable to attend the clinic please indicate below or call us at (408) 986-9874.

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CITIZENSHIP YOU MUST BE: 18 years of age. And a legal permanent resident for 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.

Shukr Celebration for Converts
2025-11-30 12:00 - 17:00 | CA
“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you” – Surah Ibrahim, Ayat 7
Join us in celebrating the season with gratitude, reflection, and community!
As Converts/New Muslims, we strive to bring the beneficial aspects of our cultures into the Deen of Islam. Ash-Shukur (the Grateful) is one of the 99 names of Allah (swt), and as Muslims, we should strive to embody and encourage one another toward gratitude year-round.
Join us on a Sunday afternoon as we take advantage of the season for our own Shukr (gratitude) dinner, featuring halal turkey and traditional seasonal treats.
Converts are welcome to bring along their born-Muslim and non-Muslim family and friends.
Non-Muslim friends and family, as well as born-Muslim friends and family, are welcome. Sidi Afraz Khan will be our guest speaker.
Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. | MCC Banquet Hall | For Converts/New Muslims & Family/Friends, RSVP at mcceastbay.org/shukr
Schedule

12 p.m. – Check-in
12:30 p.m. – Zuhr congregational prayer
12:50 p.m. – Sidi Afraz Khan Talk (Conference Room)
2 p.m. – Lunch (Banquet Hall)
3:30 p.m. – Asr congregational prayer
3:50 p.m. – Desserts (Banquet Hall)
4:56 p.m. – Maghrib congregational prayer

More from the MCC Convert Care Team

– How MCC supports new Muslims: https://mcceastbay.org/convert-care
– Recordings of educational talks for reverts playlist: https://mcceastbay.org/after-shahada
– Shahadah moments at the MCC: https://mcceastbay.org/shahada

Questions? new-muslim@mcceastbay.org
