MCC East Bay

Averroes High School Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2024-11-29 12:30 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Junior Civitans Club at Averroes High School seeks to empower young people to make a positive impact in their communities through service, leadership, and compassion.
This holiday season, they are giving back to the community through a virtual food drive. Every dollar donated will help provide nutritious meals for those in need.
Visit their table this Friday to support their cause.

Indian American Muslim Council Tables @ MCC Jumu’ahs
2024-11-29 12:30 - 15:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
IAMC is the largest US-based advocacy organization for Indian American Muslims. They have an upcoming fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 9 at Chandni Restaurant in Newark. You can purchase the tickets for the fundraiser here.

Women's Weekly Pilates Sessions | Seema Duhan
2024-11-30 08:30 - 10:00, 2024-12-07 08:30 - 10:00, 2024-12-14 08:30 - 10:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For Sisters Only: Join us for a transformative body and mind experience every Saturday and Sunday morning with a Professional Yoga and Pilates Instructor. Stretch your muscles, shape your body, and relax your mind.
The recommended age is 20+ for Pilates Classes.
Sat. (8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.) & Sun. (8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.) | Weekly with a break in Ramadan ‘25 | Conference Room | Max 15 attendees per session | $15/session or $100/monthly | Register at mcceastbay.org/pilates
Pilates Classes
Pilates is based on six principles: breath, concentration, center, control, precision, and flow. It is designed to transform muscles and bones while strengthening the core. Regular practice of Pilates not only reshapes the musculoskeletal system but also helps regulate emotions. This class is highly beneficial for individuals over the age of 20 years. Participants will learn how to control muscle movement and maintain poses while regulating their breathing. Regular Pilates practice increases muscle endurance against daily wear and tear and enhances flexibility. Starting age is 20 years. All props will be provided except the Yoga mat and foam roller.
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attending any activity held in the community center. To request a financial waiver, please complete our financial waiver request: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/scholarship

About the Instructor:
Seema Duhan represented her university in athletics at the national level in India. A health enthusiast, she began learning yoga and Pilates a few years ago and, inspired by the transformation in her own body, decided to teach Pilates and stretching to fellow Muslim sisters to promote body awareness. Seema is currently pursuing her Pilates Instructor certification.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Shukr Celebration for Converts
2024-11-30 14:30 - 18:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
“If you are grateful, I will surely increase you” – Surah Ibrahim, Ayat 7
As Converts/New Muslims, we strive to bring the good and beneficial aspects of our cultures with us 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 Saturday afternoon as we take the opportunity of the season for our own dinner of Shukr (gratitude) while enjoying some halal turkey and traditional seasonal treats.
Non-Muslim and born-Muslim friends and family are welcome as well.
Saturday, Nov. 30 | 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. | MCC Conference Room & MCC Banquet Hall | For Converts/New Muslims & Family/Friends, RSVP at mcceastbay.org/shukr

– 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? marhaba@mcceastbay.org

#TeamFajr Monthly Sunday Breakfast & Qur'an Khatam
2024-12-01 06:30 - 07:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
“If people knew the reward in praying Fajr & Isha in a congregation, they would go to the Masjid even if they had to crawl” [Bukhari & Muslim]
Join Qari Amar Bellaha on the first Sunday of each month. Pray the pre-dawn prayer in congregation (6:30 a.m.), followed by recitations of Surah Yaseen and Al-Wird Al-Latif (booklets provided) in unison, community dua, and following sunup, Salat al-Ishraq prayer in congregation.
Qari Amar will also lead the Khatam (completion) of the Qur’an. Each month, congregation members complete one Juz of the Holy Qur’an. Please finish your Juz by the first Sunday of each month. Sign up for Juz at mcceastbay.org/juz
This program is also streamed virtually at https://mcceastbay.org/live.
2024 Sunday Monthly Khatam with Qari Amar Bellaha:

– January 7, 2024
– February 4, 2024
– March 3, 2024
– May 5, 2024
– June 2, 2024
– July 7, 2024
– August 4, 2024
– September 1, 2024
– October 6, 2024
– November 3, 2024
– December 1, 2024

There are numerous benefits and virtues of reciting the Holy Qur’an and sending Salawat upon Rasulullah (S). Along with bringing great barakah into our lives, these two acts of ‘ibadah are a means by which Allah elevates our rank in Jannah. Though it may be challenging to make a habit of tilawah (recitation) and Salawat individually, there is strength in our numbers. Join your MCC community in our goal of collectively completing a Qur’an khatam.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

More Qari Amar: https://mcceastbay.org/amar
Imam al-Haddad’s litanies (al-Wird al-Latif): https://mcceastbay.org/wird
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) said, “He who performs the Fajr will be under the protection of Allah.” [Muslim]
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “The best prayer before Allah is the Fajr prayer on Friday in the congregation.”

Sisters' Self-Defense/Boxing/Fitness/Awareness Seminar | MMA Fighter Amber Leibrock
2024-12-01 14:30 - 16:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Sisters! Join Us for a Sisters-Only Self-Defense / Boxing / Fitness / Awareness Seminar!
Build confidence, discover new ways to move with strength and purpose, and understand how proper safety goes beyond physical techniques. This two-hour self-defense, boxing, fitness, and awareness seminar at MCC East Bay is designed for sisters, whether it’s your first time trying something like this or you’re already on a fitness journey. You’ll leave feeling informed, inspired, and empowered.
2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. | Sunday, Dec. 1 | Sisters only; ages 12+ only | Conference Room | $20/person | Register at mcceastbay.org/ready
Max 32 attendees.
What to Expect:

• Self-Defense Basics: Learn practical techniques that make a real difference, from protecting yourself in unexpected situations to understanding the power of awareness.
• Boxing & Fitness: Explore movement and skills that build strength and resilience, enhancing your physical and mental well-being.
• Safety & Awareness Tips: Real safety isn’t just physical—develop skills in awareness and confidence that extend beyond the gym.
• Please wear comfortable, movable clothes that you can work out in. We will be doing close partner-to-partner drills, so make sure the clothing is secure so it doesn’t slip or fall during the workout sessions.

Bring your friends, meet new ones, and join a community of sisters focused on health, growth, and fun. Come as you are, work at your own pace, and leave feeling more robust, secure, and ready to take on the world.
No experience is needed—just an open mind and a desire to learn and grow!

– More Sr. Amber: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/amber

Please note that the class will start on time. If you are more than 30 minutes late, you cannot join the class. Please be respectful of the instructor’s time.
Cancelation policy: If you cannot make it, please let us know ASAP so we can give your spot to the next person on the waitlist. You will not be eligible for a refund if you cancel with less than 24 hours notice.
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never prevent a person from attending any event or class held within the community center. To request a financial waiver, message scholarship@mcceastbay.org
About the Presenter
Amber Leibrock is a mixed martial artist who competes in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) Featherweight division. Born and raised in the East Bay, she trains with M.J. Hamid, an MCC congregation member and trainer. After her fight with Larissa Pacheco, she went through a tough time and Br. Hamid introduced her to Islam. She took her Shahadah at MCC on July 21, 2023. Since then, she’s been attending Jumu’ah (Friday prayer services) regularly. Ahead of a fight, ESPN did this profile on Sister Amber.

“I just see it (Islam) spilling over to my everyday life. How I feel inside, how I feel about myself, how I feel and interact with other people.” – Amber Leibrock in an ESPN fighter profile
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Private Event
2024-12-01 18:00 - 19:30, 2024-12-14 18:00 - 20:30, 2024-12-15 13:00 - 15:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Conference Room

Women’s Seerah Bookclub (in-person & virtual) | Ustadha Leila Fakira
2024-12-02 11:00 - 12:30, 2024-12-09 11:00 - 12:30
Join our weekly sisters’ in-person & virtual Seerah book club, where we have an active discussion, take away lessons for our daily lives, and inshaAllah fall in love with the Prophet ﷺ. We are reading from “The Prophetic Narrative” by Samira al-Zayid and will begin reading Volume 2.

Every Monday in-person & virtual | 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | MCC Conference Room | Women only | RSVP for the live registration link at https://mcceastbay.org/bookclub. RSVP is needed to join us virtually.

Event Details:

The in-person & virtual discussion takes place every Monday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a break in Ramadan ’24.

Please register online to receive the link to the Whatsapp thread where all communication and updates will be made. In this bookclub, we will be starting volume 2 of “The Prophetic Narrative” by Samira al-Zayid.

Book Purchase:

If you wish to follow along with the book, please purchase the book. The book can be purchased here:

– https://daybreak.rabata.org/products/soft-cover-a-compendium-of-the-sources-on-the-prophetic-narrative

Questions? bookclub@mcceastbay.org

About the Book

Internationally acclaimed as “the most authoritative resource” on the Sīra, this two-volume translation textbook is revolutionary in bringing Prophet Muhammad ﷺ’s life to life for everyone who ventures upon it.

This multiple award-winning, comprehensive compilation of narrations and details of the life of Prophet Muhammad (S) has never before been available in English until now! Internationally acclaimed as “the most authoritative resource” on the Sīra, this two-volume translation textbook is revolutionary in bringing his (S) life to life for everyone who ventures upon it. The original volumes have won the approval and praise of numerous scholars. It is finally available as a treasured text for personal or educational development.

Author: Samira al-Zayid

Translators: Susan Imady, Tamara Gray, & Randa Mardini

Binding: Softcover

Pages: Vol 1, 570; Vol 2, 558

Publisher: Daybreak Press

Questions? bookclub@mcceastbay.org

Building Healthy Marriages, Relationships, and Homes in Islam | Sidi Shahryar Abbasi
2024-12-04 18:30 - 19:30, 2024-12-11 18:30 - 19:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Join us for a new 6-week mini-series on Wednesdays, where we delve into the spiritual and practical aspects of building healthy marriages and relationships according to Islamic teachings. This series is designed to offer insights into creating harmonious homes rooted in Islamic values.

Foundations of Islamic Marriage: Explore the Quranic principles that define marriage as a bond of peace, love, and mercy. Understand the significance of equality, mutual respect, and shared responsibilities between spouses.
Spiritual Harmony in Family Life: Explore how spiritual practices like prayer can enhance marital bonds and create a home filled with tranquility and spiritual growth.
Communication and Conflict Resolution: Learn effective communication strategies inspired by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), emphasizing kindness, patience, and forgiveness as tools for resolving conflicts.
Nurturing Love and Compassion: Discover how to cultivate love that sustains and grows through acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion. Understand the importance of maintaining emotional and physical closeness.
Balancing Rights and Responsibilities: Gain insights into balancing personal rights with responsibilities towards your spouse and family, fostering an environment of mutual support and accountability.

This class is ideal for individuals seeking to strengthen their home environments, marital relationships, or marriage preparation. By integrating Islamic teachings into daily life, participants will learn to build homes that reflect the core values of Islam—peace, love, and unity.
Wednesdays, Starts Nov. 6 | 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. | MCC Conference Room | Join in-person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live.
– More Sidi Shahryar: https://mcceastbay.org/shahryar
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Building Healthy Relationships” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/harmony
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Purification of the Heart” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/healing
Sidi Shahryar’s “The Soul’s Journey” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/journey
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Real Talk Series”: https://mcceastbay.org/real-talk
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Traits of the Righteous” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/hallmark
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Controlling Your Desires” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/desires
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Soul’s Journey Series: https://mcceastbay.org/journey
Sidi Shahryar is an experienced teacher, speaker, mentor, and coach. He is passionate about helping individuals build healthy relationships and cultivate spiritual growth. He provides practical guidance and insights rooted in Islamic teachings, while addressing contemporary challenges faced by Western Muslim. Send him questions at: ask.abu.taha@gmail.com and learn more about him at https://www.tiktok.com/@islamic_spirituality.

*Virtual Only Tonight* Building Healthy Marriages, Relationships, and Homes in Islam | Sidi Shahryar Abbasi
2024-12-04 18:30 - 19:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
*Tonight’s class will be virtual only. Join us at mcceastbay.org/live*

Join us for a new 6-week mini-series on Wednesdays, where we delve into the spiritual and practical aspects of building healthy marriages and relationships according to Islamic teachings. This series is designed to offer insights into creating harmonious homes rooted in Islamic values.

Foundations of Islamic Marriage: Explore the Quranic principles that define marriage as a bond of peace, love, and mercy. Understand the significance of equality, mutual respect, and shared responsibilities between spouses.
Spiritual Harmony in Family Life: Explore how spiritual practices like prayer can enhance marital bonds and create a home filled with tranquility and spiritual growth.
Communication and Conflict Resolution: Learn effective communication strategies inspired by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), emphasizing kindness, patience, and forgiveness as tools for resolving conflicts.
Nurturing Love and Compassion: Discover how to cultivate love that sustains and grows through acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion. Understand the importance of maintaining emotional and physical closeness.
Balancing Rights and Responsibilities: Gain insights into balancing personal rights with responsibilities towards your spouse and family, fostering an environment of mutual support and accountability.

This class is ideal for individuals seeking to strengthen their home environments, marital relationships, or marriage preparation. By integrating Islamic teachings into daily life, participants will learn to build homes that reflect the core values of Islam—peace, love, and unity.
Wednesdays, Starts Nov. 6 | 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. | MCC Conference Room | Join in-person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live.
– More Sidi Shahryar: https://mcceastbay.org/shahryar
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Building Healthy Relationships” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/harmony
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Purification of the Heart” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/healing
Sidi Shahryar’s “The Soul’s Journey” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/journey
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Real Talk Series”: https://mcceastbay.org/real-talk
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Traits of the Righteous” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/hallmark
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Controlling Your Desires” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/desires
– Sidi Shahryar’s “Soul’s Journey Series: https://mcceastbay.org/journey
Sidi Shahryar is an experienced teacher, speaker, mentor, and coach. He is passionate about helping individuals build healthy relationships and cultivate spiritual growth. He provides practical guidance and insights rooted in Islamic teachings, while addressing contemporary challenges faced by Western Muslim. Send him questions at: ask.abu.taha@gmail.com and learn more about him at https://www.tiktok.com/@islamic_spirituality.

Jumu’ah Services @ MCC & Rosewood
2024-12-06 12:30 - 14:50 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For MCC’s four Jumu’ah services on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024:

12:30 p.m. to 12:50 p.m

Hafiz Rehan Chishty delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

12:40 p.m. to 1:10 p.m.

– Ustadh Omar Naisan delivers this sermon at Rosewood Conference Center, 4450 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton

1:30 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.

– Dr. Will Caldwell delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

2:30 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.

– Ustadh Mohammed Abdul Baseer delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

*Please attend at 12:30 or 2:30 p.m. at MCC to avoid heavier second-service congestion whenever possible, or please attend the off-site MCC Jumu’ah service, that is, each week at the Rosewood Commons, 4450 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton. Rosewood is a four-minute drive from MCC.Please note that the former HP lot (now Pleasanton School District) is no longer available to our congregation. Please come to the second or fourth Jumuah to ease up parking congestion or (better yet) attend our weekly parallel satellite prayer at 11:40 p.m. at Rosewood Conference Center: https://mcceastbay.org/rosewood

– Virtually watch the three MCC sermons from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Hafiz Rehan: https://mcceastbay.org/rehan
– More Ustadh Omar: https://mcceastbay.org/omar
– More Ustadh Abdul Baseer: https://mcceastbay.org/baseer

For parents attending with young children indoors at the main MCC facility, we offer private mothers’ and fathers’ rooms with an audio and visual connection to the Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while working with other parents and young children. The mothers’ and fathers’ prayer room is just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Peace Terrace Academy (ISEB) @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2024-12-06 12:30 - 15:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Peace Terrace Academy (an Islamic school in Fremont) is holding a fundraising dinner on December 14. Please visit their table this Friday to purchase tickets or purchase online here.

Family Caregiver Peer Support Group | Arzina Ali
2024-12-06 17:00 - 18:15 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For Family Caregivers of an Aging Family Member who is 60+: Join us monthly for a peer support group that aims to connect unpaid family caregivers who are caring for an aging adult (60+) where they can share their experience and resources.
Participation is free, and light refreshments will be provided.
Friday, Dec. 6 | 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. | Room 22 | RSVP at mcceastbay.org/caregivers
Dates for 2024/2025:

Friday, Dec. 6
Friday, Jan. 17
Friday, Feb. 21

About the facilitator:
Arzina is a dedicated community member focused on addressing the long-term needs of aging Muslims through strategic partnerships, programming and education, research, and advocacy. Arzina is pursuing an MS in Gerontology at the University of Southern California (USC) and resides in Northern California with her family.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Elementary & Middle School Boys Halaqa & Hangout | Sidi Amin Gharad & Sidi Zeeshan Mukhtar
2024-12-06 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-12-13 19:00 - 20:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For Elementary & Middle School Boys (Ages 8-13): Join us weekly in November for a Halaqa and hang-out session to help them make connections and bonds, form a brotherhood, and navigate school and social challenges as they grow into young men.
These sessions aim to craft our next generation of confident, faithful Muslim men. These Halaqas are for only ages 8-13—no younger boys. The sessions are capped at 30 teens. Once limited spots are full, please join the waitlist.
Pizza is included each week.
7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. | Fridays | 12/6, 12/13, & 12/20 (no session on 12/27) | MCC Banquet Hall | $10/week | Register at mcceastbay.org/boys-hangout
Parents must pick up their child(ren) by 8:30 p.m., no later than 9 p.m.
Location of Friday evening sessions for high school boys in ‘25 and ‘26:

– November 21, 2025, at Donlon Elementary School
– November 28, 2024 (no session)
– December 5, 2025, at location TBA
– December 12, 2025, at location TBA
– December 19, 2025, at location TBA
– December 26, 2024 (no session)
– January 2, 2025 (no session)
– January 9, 2026, at location TBA
– January 16, 2026, at location TBA
– January 23, 2026, at location TBA
– January 30, 2026, at location TBA
– February 6, 2026, at location TBA
– February 13, 2026, at location TBA

– February 20, 2026 (no season in Ramadan)
– February 27, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)– March 6, 2026 (no session)
– March 13, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 20, 2026 (no session in Ramadan)
– March 27, 2025 (no session) at location TBA
– April 3, 2026, at location TBA
– April 10, 2026, at location TBA
– April 17, 2026, at location TBA
– April 24, 2026, at location TBA
– May 1, 2026, at location TBA
– May 8, 2026, at location TBA
– May 15, 2026, at location TBA
– May 22, 2026, at location TBA

For questions about the Halaqa, please contact Sr. Fouzia Alam at 925-330-4287.
MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attaining spiritual or educational knowledge within the four walls of the Muslim Community Center. For a financial waiver for this event, please email scholarship@mcceastbay.org.
About the halaqa facilitators
Amin Gharad served two terms as President of the Muslim Youth of North America (MYNA) and, most recently, Islamic Studies Director at Northstar School, where he also taught boys’ P.E. He has also worked with the Yaqeen Institute on several projects, including curriculum development. In addition to his extensive experience working with and mentoring Muslim youth, he has completed Arabic studies at the Qasid Institute in Amman and studied Islamic sciences with traditional scholars based in Jordan and Turkey.
Sister Fouzia Alam, a mother of three boys, is collaborating to launch the Boys’ Halaqa. She has extensive experience and organized numerous Bay Area enrichment programs.
Azmat Zeeshan Mukhtar is a local father and mentor from our community who enjoys sports and kids. He will organize the activities and bring on some other dads to help volunteer and make this a rewarding activity for our young Muslim boys. Brother Zeeshan Mukhtar has previously led similar sessions at his son’s school, and in the past, he coached flag football for boys at MCC.

Dr. Rania Awaad’s Weekly Friday Evening Halaqa
2024-12-06 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-13 19:00 - 21:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Ustadha Dr. Rania Awaad holds a weekly women’s gathering on Friday evenings to discuss navigating contemporary issues. This program runs in parallel to the Friday night girl’s halaqa.

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Every Friday from September 20, 2024, to February 21, 2025, | MCC Conference Room | Free; no registration or RSVP required to attend in person | To join virtually, register at https://mcceastbay.org/zoom

– More Dr. Rania: https://mcceastbay.org/rania
– Watch past Dr. Rania’s Friday Evening Halaqa recordings: https://mcceastbay.org/womens-halaqa
– Join Dr. Rania’s WhatsUp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HlHmFFnGbwvCvLl6uGD1C4
– The Rahmah Foundation’s Holiday Calendar: https://mcceastbay.org/rahmah-calendar

The Fall session runs from Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, to May 23, 2025, with no halaqas on Friday, November 29, December 27, March 7, 14, 21, 28, and April 4), and we restart from April 11, 2025 to May 23, 2025. See calendar.

Free weekly babysitting is provided in Room 23. Facility map: https://mcceastbay.org/facility-map

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

This halaqa is hosted parallel to our girls’ program in partnership with The Rahmah Foundation.

Ustadha Rania Awaad was raised in the U.S. and began her formal study of the traditional Islamic sciences when her parents permitted her to travel to Damascus, Syria, at 14. Her desire to continue studying the Deen resulted in multiple trips back to Damascus, interspersed between her high school, college, and medical studies. She was honored to receive Ijazah (authorization to teach) several branches of the Shari’ah sciences at the hands of many renowned scholars, including many female scholars. She has received Ijazah to teach Tajwid in the Hafs and Warsh recitations from the late eminent Syrian scholar Shaykh Abu Hassan al-Kurdi. In addition to completing several advanced texts of the Shafi’i madhhab, she is licensed to teach texts of Maliki fiqh, Adab, and Ihsan. Currently, Ustadha Rania teaches online and local classes for The Rahmah Foundation, Rabata. She is on the faculty of Zaytuna College, where she teaches courses in Shafi’i fiqh and women’s issues in fiqh and has helped develop and co-direct the Tajweed and Hifz program.

Ustadha Rania is also a medical doctor with a specialty in Psychiatry. She completed her Psychiatric residency and fellowship training at Stanford University, where she is currently on the faculty as a Clinical Instructor in the Stanford Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences department. Her medical interests include addressing mental health care concerns in the Muslim community- particularly that of Muslim women and girls. She has been awarded grants from the NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) to research this topic and has presented her findings at several medical conferences. Other ongoing endeavors include compiling manuscripts addressing female-related mental health and medical issues from a fiqh-oriented perspective. She is the Director of the Rahmah Foundation, a non-profit organization that teaches traditional Islamic knowledge to Muslim women and girls. In this capacity, she also heads the Murbbiyah Mentoring Program, which trains young women to teach and mentor Muslim girls and teens. Ustadha Rania is both a wife and a mother; she has been counseling and teaching women classes on Tajwid, Shafi’i Fiqh, Ihsan, marriage, and raising children since 1999.

Learn more about Dr. Rania and her work at http://med.stanford.edu/psychiatry/research/MuslimMHLab.html

Every Friday evening, the MCC bustles with activity. MCC hosts four halaqas to increase God-consciousness for youth, women, and men.

Join Dr. Rania Awaad‘s women’s gathering on navigating contemporary issues from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This wide-ranging Muslimah halaqa is in the MCC Conference Room, and the first hour is live-streamed here (watch past sessions at https://mcceastbay.org/halaqa). This halaqa is organized in partnership with The Rahmah Foundation.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Living as a True Muslim: Avoiding the Trap of Hypocrisy | Sidi Shaan Mukhtar & Shaykh Bilal ibn Yusuf
2024-12-06 19:00 - 21:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Learn the spiritual habits that define a sincere believer and how to recognize and avoid behaviors that lead to spiritual downfall. This talk with Imam Bilal ibn Yusuf and Sidi Shaan Mukhtar is for everyone, particularly teens and young professionals.
7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Friday, December 6 | MCC Prayer Hall | Join us in person or watch virtually at mcceastbay.org/live
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
About the Speakers
Imam Bilal ibn Yusuf graduated from the seven-year ʿālimiyyah program at Darussalam Seminary in Lombard, Illinois. He also holds degrees in psychology and political science. He is the Imam of the Islamic Center of Walnut Creek (Darul-Islam Mosque) and is pursuing postgraduate studies in Islamic Law and Islamic Theology.
Sidi Shaan Mukhtar was born in the Bay Area and raised in the MCC community as a small boy. Shaan has actively contributed to establishing high school MSAs and youth halaqas at various San Francisco Bay Area mosques. Shaan holds a BA in Political Science from UC Davis and has pursued a passion for Islamic learning. He attended the Ilm Tree Homeschooling Cooperative during middle school, where he studied Islamic Sciences under Shaykh Rami Nsour. During college, Shaan took a gap year to study Arabic in Jordan. In addition to his formal education, Shaan has studied privately with local Bay Area teachers such as Syed Mubeen Saifullah and Shaykh Tarif Arabi. He currently works in tech and resides in the Bay Area with his wife, where he continues to engage in community-building and engagement.

Private Event
2024-12-07 12:00 - 15:30

Quarterly Red Cross Blood Drive @ MCC Jumu’ahs
2024-12-13 11:30 - 16:30
As people of faith, it is in our blood to help. With a 15-minute blood donation, you can be part of a lifesaving journey that could save up to three lives.

The MCC community has saved nearly 350 lives! This is our 29th blood drive during Jumu’ah, and each one has always been fully or near-fully booked!

Let’s continue that trajectory at this blood drive and keep all our American Red Cross guests busy when they set up in our Banquet Hall from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on a Friday. Sign up at: https://mcceastbay.org/blood-drive
Here are the Jumu’ah prayer times: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/prayer

In 2024, MCC will proudly host these quarterly blood drives during Jumuah services from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with our friends at the American Red Cross:

Friday, March 1, 2024

Friday, May 31, 2024

Friday, September 6, 2024

Friday, December 13, 2024

A Power Red donation targets O-, O+, A-, and B—only. It takes 20-30 minutes because donors give two units of concentrated Red Blood Cells, and platelets and plasma are returned.
Blood diversity is important. Now more than ever, the American Red Cross needs the help of black blood donors.

Blood donors report feeling a sense of great satisfaction after making their blood donation. Why? Because helping others in need feels good.

If you have visited India, Pakistan, or another high-risk malaria country and returned within the last 12 months, you are not eligible to donate blood. See the latest travel-related restrictions to blood donation eligibility.

Every person who donates blood at MCC will receive a voucher for a free meal at iniBurger—Gourmet Burgers in Pleasanton. MCC congregation members Leeza and Abdullah Popal, who own these establishments, generously donate these vouchers to encourage community and congregation participation.

MCC Youth: If you are 16 to 18, here are the donor requirements and parental authorization form link.

On the morning of the blood drive, please complete the Rapid Pass online and bring the print-off to speed up the check-in process. Complete at https://mcceastbay.org/rapid

School of Freedom Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2024-12-13 12:00 - 15:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
School of Freedom started at UC Davis to educate girls in Afghanistan through online schooling. They employ female teachers who were let go by the Taliban to continue teaching girls from 7th through 12th grade online. Visit their table this Friday to learn more about their services and how you can support their cause.

Al-Medina Education Center (MEC) Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2024-12-13 12:30 - 14:50 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Al-Medina Education Center in Newark is holding its annual fundraising event on Sunday, December 15, at Chandni Restaurant in Newark. Please visit their table this Friday to support the fundraiser and purchase tickets. You can also purchase tickets online here.

Jumu’ah Services @ MCC & Rosewood
2024-12-13 12:30 - 14:50 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
12:30 p.m. to 12:50 p.m

Sidi Shahryar Abbasi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

1:30 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.

– Ustadh Feraidoon Mojadedi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

1:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.

– Hafiz Atef Arabi delivers this sermon at Rosewood Conference Center, 4450 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton

2:30 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.

– Hafiz Atef Arabi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

*Please attend at 12:30 or 2:30 p.m. at MCC to avoid heavier second-service congestion whenever possible, or please attend the off-site MCC Jumu’ah service, that is, each week at the Rosewood Commons, 4450 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton. Rosewood is a four-minute drive from MCC.Please note that the former HP lot (now Pleasanton School District) is no longer available to our congregation. Please come to the second or fourth Jumuah to ease up parking congestion or (better yet) attend our weekly parallel satellite prayer at 11:40 p.m. at Rosewood Conference Center: https://mcceastbay.org/rosewood

– Virtually watch the three MCC sermons from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Sidi Shahryar: http://mcceastbay.org/shahryar
– More Ustadh Feraidoon: http://mcceastbay.org/feraidoon
– More Hafiz Atef: http://mcceastbay.org/atef

For parents attending with young children indoors at the main MCC facility, we offer private mothers’ and fathers’ rooms with an audio and visual connection to the Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while working with other parents and young children. The mothers’ and fathers’ prayer room is just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

For MCC’s four Jumu’ah services on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024:

12:30 p.m. to 12:50 p.m

Sidi Shahryar Abbasi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

1:30 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.

– Ustadh Feraidoon Mojadedi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

1:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.

– Hafiz Atef Arabi delivers this sermon at Rosewood Conference Center, 4450 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton

2:30 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.

– Hafiz Atef Arabi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay

*Please attend at 12:30 or 2:30 p.m. at MCC to avoid heavier second-service congestion whenever possible, or please attend the off-site MCC Jumu’ah service, that is, each week at the Rosewood Commons, 4450 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton. Rosewood is a four-minute drive from MCC.Please note that the former HP lot (now Pleasanton School District) is no longer available to our congregation. Please come to the second or fourth Jumuah to ease up parking congestion or (better yet) attend our weekly parallel satellite prayer at 11:40 p.m. at Rosewood Conference Center: https://mcceastbay.org/rosewood

– Virtually watch the three MCC sermons from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Sidi Shahryar: http://mcceastbay.org/shahryar
– More Ustadh Feraidoon: http://mcceastbay.org/feraidoon
– More Hafiz Atef: http://mcceastbay.org/atef

For parents attending with young children indoors at the main MCC facility, we offer private mothers’ and fathers’ rooms with an audio and visual connection to the Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while working with other parents and young children. The mothers’ and fathers’ prayer room is just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Parent Education Night: Spiritual Abuse in the Muslim Community
2024-12-13 19:00 - 21:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Asalamu’alaikum Beloved Community Members,

In light of troubling recent events of spiritual abuse across the country, MCC joins our national discussion on this challenging topic to ferret out spiritual predators in the Muslim community and protect our communities, particularly our children.
Shaykh Rami Nsour and Sidi Shaan Mukhtar, passionate local congregation members helping our community understand this type of abuse, will lead this conversation.
Parents: Please join us for practical and spiritual tools to talk about this type of abuse with your children.
The national discourse in the Muslim community prompts this discussion. Alhamdulliah, no spiritual abuse incident has happened at MCC.
The MCC Board will also update you on additional precautionary security measures we are implementing to ensure our community center remains a safe space for everyone, especially children.
This vital education night is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13. Please mark your calendars. You can join us in person or watch live virtually.
Spiritual abuse is quite common in our communities and is often missed because of our inability to see it and correct it. It’s also missed because of the shame associated with abuse. It ends with awareness and action.
What is Spiritual Abuse?
This is when individuals misuse their authority within religious settings to manipulate, control, or harm others. This leaves deep and lasting impacts on the victim by shaking the foundation of their faith. Some victims feel disconnected from the beliefs meant to bring peace and healing.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Asalamu’alaikum Beloved Community Members,

In light of recent events of spiritual abuse in the Muslim community nationally, MCC is organizing a town hall meeting to discuss additional measures we are taking to ensure our community center remains a safe space for everyone, especially children.Join us on Friday, Dec. 13, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. to discuss the additional steps we are implementing and address questions and concerns. More details to come!
We welcome you to make suggestions and volunteer to ensure the safety of children. Together, we can foster a compassionate, accountable space for all.

In addition to the town hall, here are the steps that MCC is taking to ensure that our center provides a safe environment for every member of our community:

Any new hire is required to complete a background and reference check (our Sunday School volunteers also currently get background checked);
Addressing these topics candidly in Jumu’ah Khutbahs (Friday sermons);
As mandatory reporters, requiring staff and volunteers to take training for misconduct prevention and identification;
In collaboration with our mental health partner Maristan, MCC will hold healing circles;
No counseling of the opposite gender will take place in a closed space at MCC or without a Mahram present;
Meetings between opposite genders must not occur in closed spaces but in public, open spaces, such as rooms with open doors and visible windows. No Imam, Shaykh, or staff member is exempt from this policy. We require all children under 18 to be supervised at all times;
Increased security and video surveillance around the facility;
MCC vets the background of new speakers, presenters, and Khateebs;
We will host an educational family night for parents, Sunday school teachers, and staff on safety measures and recognizing misconduct.

Please do not leave children unattended at the facility. Please pick up your child on time after their class, halaqa, or activity is over, and do not drop them off early.
If you see any misconduct, please don’t hesitate to reach us at
mcc-listens@mcceastbay.org

Resources For Healing, Support & Recovery

Maristan – offers specialized programs and support for individuals affected by spiritual abuse. Maristan has a counseling office at MCC.
The Hurma Project – Dedicated to safeguarding the sanctity of individuals within religious spaces.
In Shaykh’s Clothing – an organization dedicated to helping Muslims understand and recover from spiritual abuse.
The FYI’s Spiritual Abuse Toolkit – Provides guidance and resources for identifying and healing from spiritual abuse.
Stanford Muslim Mental Health and Islamic Psychology Lab: Psychological Sequelae of Spiritual Abuse – Research and insights into the psychological impact of spiritual abuse.

Spiritual Abuse Resources

Insights into the Psychology of Spiritual Abuse: A paper co-authored by Dr. Rania Awaad on the psychology of spiritual misuse.
Preventing Child Abuse: What Can You Do?: The trauma, secrecy, and shame for victims and tips for parents to help prevent sexual abuse within our community.
Information on Mandatory Reporting: Certain community members/professionals are legally bound to report child abuse and neglect concerns.

Even though MCC aims to implement policies to safeguard those attending classes and programs at the facility, we can only do this with your help.
Please help us ensure that our children remain safe by reporting any concerns about misconduct, volunteering, and talking to your children at home about proper personal boundaries.

From our friends at Maristan:
Assalamu Alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu,
In light of recent events, we at Maristan feel it is crucial to address the importance of creating safe, respectful spaces for spiritual and personal growth. Spiritual abuse—when individuals misuse their position of authority within religious settings to manipulate, control, or harm others—has deep and lasting impacts. This form of abuse not only damages individuals but can also shake the foundation of their faith, leading some to feel disconnected from the very beliefs meant to bring peace and healing.
We believe that accountability is essential in addressing these harms. Those who inflict such abuse must be held responsible, not only to support victims but also to protect the integrity of our communities. It’s important to remember that no single person defines our faith. Faith is rooted in compassion, justice, and kindness, and these values should guide how we respond to spiritual abuse and the structures we build to prevent it.
Spiritual abuse can leave lasting psychological impacts, including:

Moral Confusion: The disorienting confusion arises when witnessing a religious figure partaking in harmful behaviors.
Trauma Bonds: A powerful emotional bond that victims may develop with their abuser, complicating their ability to separate from the abuse.
Nonresistance to Prolonged Abuse: A tendency to endure prolonged harm due to the authority figure’s status.
Failure to Report Abuse: Victims often face feelings of fear, guilt, or isolation, making it difficult to seek help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of spiritual abuse, please know that you are not alone. There are resources, safe spaces, and support systems to help you heal, reclaim your well-being, and find safety. At Maristan, we are committed to fostering environments where trust and compassion form the foundation and every individual can feel secure in their faith journey and personal well-being.
Resources for Healing and Support:

The Hurma Project – Dedicated to safeguarding the sanctity of individuals within religious spaces.
The FYI’s Spiritual Abuse Toolkit – Provides guidance and resources for identifying and healing from spiritual abuse.
Stanford Muslim Mental Health and Islamic Psychology Lab: Psychological Sequelae of Spiritual Abuse – Research and insights into the psychological impact of spiritual abuse.
Shaykhs Clothing – is an organization dedicated to helping Muslims understand and recover from spiritual abuse.

If you have any questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Maristan. Let’s work together to foster compassionate, accountable spaces for all.
