BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//MCC East Bay - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:MCC East Bay X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mcceastbay.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for MCC East Bay REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20240310T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20241103T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250906T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250906T193000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250812T160611Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T021846Z UID:10023904-1757156400-1757187000@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Shamail Muhammadiya ﷺ | The Rahmah Foundation & Nur al-Iman DESCRIPTION:For Sisters Ages 14+! Join Ustadha Eiman Sidky\, Ustadha Mona Elzankaly\, and Ustadha Shamira Chothia Ahmed to explore the Shamā’il Muḥammadiyya—the timeless collection of narrations describing the noble character\, appearance\, and daily life of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. \nCome with an open heart and leave with renewed love for the Prophet ﷺ and practical lessons to live by. \nSaturday\, Sep. 6 | 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (PST) | MCC Conference Room | Women & Girls Ages 14+ | In-person & Online (no video of speakers will be shown) | Register at mcceastbay.org/shamail \nNo babysitting option | Pre-paid lunch provided in the Banquet Hall. Coffee and tea will be served. \nThe event will not be publicly live-streamed. A link to view the live-stream will be emailed an hour before the event. \nThe Rahmah Foundation\,  Nur al-Iman\, and MCC East Bay are sponsors for this event. \n\n\n– More videos in collaboration with Rahmah Foundation: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/rahmah-foundation \n\n\nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \nUstadha Eiman Sidky\nActively engaged in propagating Islam and educating Muslims in the United States for the past 15 years\, Ustadha Eiman Sidky is loved by all those who meet her and has an amazing way of instilling the love of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the hearts. She has studied under Al-Habib Umar bin Hafiz\, Habib Ali Aljifri and the Haba’ib of Tarim. For twenty years\, she taught Qur’an and Islamic Studies at the Islamic Saudi Academy in Alexandria\, Virginia. She continues to teach Seerah and Qur’anic tafseer classes both in the United States and in Egypt. \nUstadha Mona Elzankaly\nBorn in Cairo\, Egypt\, and raised in Southern California\, Ustadha Mona Elzankaly graduated from the University of California\, Riverside\, with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics in 1994. \nIn 1998\, Ustadha Mona began seeking sacred knowledge at the Zaytuna Institute in Hayward\, CA. She later traveled internationally\, seeking sacred knowledge. She has studied under many eminent scholars\, such as Shaykh Hamza Yusuf\, Shaykh Khatri\, and Shaykh Abd Allah. Bayyah\, Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi\, Shaykh Salik b. Siddina\, Imam Zaid Shakir\, Habib Umar b. Hafiz\, Habib Ali al-Jifri\, and other scholars from Syria\, Yemen\, and Egypt. \nUstadha Mona obtained different Ijaazahs in Tajwid and books of hadith\, Aqidah\, and Maliki Fiqh. In 2008\, she completed the four-year Zaytuna Seminary pilot program and received a baccalaureate in Islamic Studies. In 2014\, she completed a four-year Islamic Shari’a program at al-Azhar University in Cairo\, Egypt. \nUstadha Mona began teaching in 2002\, both privately and publicly. She has taught for Zaytuna Institute\, Sisters Deen Intensive\, Dar al-Zahra Tarim Yemen\, The Rahmah Foundation\, and Meadows of al-Mustafa. She currently teaches an Islamic studies program for ladies at Nur al-Iman. \nUstadha Shamira Chothia Ahmed\nBorn and raised in California’s Central Valley\, Shamira Chothia Ahmed is passionate about educating and empowering Muslim women to reach their highest spiritual potential through acquiring sacred knowledge. \nHaving graduated as valedictorian from a large public high school\, her studies led her — following a brief soul-searching stint at Georgetown University — to seek sacred knowledge from scholars on three continents — Africa\, Europe\, and Asia. \nUstadha Shamira began her journey in seeking sacred knowledge at the women’s Dar-ul-Uloom Mu’eenal Islam seminary in South Africa\, and completed the five-year intensive ‘alima program at Ja’mia Al-Imam Muhammad Zakariyya\, one of Britain’s first and most renowned Islamic universities for women. Thereafter\, she continued her Arabic and Qur’anic studies in Damascus\, Syria\, where she obtained an ijāzah in Tajwīd of the Ḥafṣ recitation from the late eminent Syrian scholar Shaykh Ḥasan al-Kurdī. \nIn 2005\, Ustadha Shamira taught Hanafi fiqh for women at the Zaytuna Institute in California and since then\, has taught various Islamic sciences in venues across North America. In 2008\, she earned a Master’s Degree in Demographics and Social Analysis from the University of California at Irvine\, focusing on the identity formation of the Muslim-American population. \nIn 2013\, Ustadha Shamira specialized in the detailed rulings of menstruation\, lochia\, and abnormal discharge under the direction of Mufti Abdur Rahman Ibn Yusuf Mangera and assisted in compiling Imam Abu Hanifa’s Al-Fiqh al-Akbar Explained. \nAs a wife and mother of five children\, Shamira has a passion for empowering women in their childbearing years to gain closeness to their Lord through her spiritual birth consultations and virtual doula services. \nUstadha Shamira is a co-founder of the Rahmah Foundation and currently teaches for Nur al-Iman\, a full-time girls’ shariah program with Ustadha Mona Elzankaly based in the Bay Area. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/shamail/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Sisters Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Shamail.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250906T114500 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250906T140000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250806T210822Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T210822Z UID:10023896-1757159100-1757167200@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Private Event DESCRIPTION:Prayer Hall URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/private-event-mir/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/private-event-masjid.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250907T060000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250907T070000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250623T194253Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T182545Z UID:10023916-1757224800-1757228400@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:#TeamFajr Monthly Sunday Breakfast & Qur'an Khatam DESCRIPTION:  \n“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] \nJoin Qari Amar Bellaha on the first Sunday of each month. Pray the pre-dawn prayer in congregation (6 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. 2025 Sunday Monthly Khatam with Qari Amar Bellaha: \n\n– January 5\, 2025\n– February 2\, 2025\n– No TeamFajr in Ramadan\n– April 6\, 2025\n– May 4\, 2025\n– June 1\, 2025\n– July 6\, 2025\n– August 3\, 2025\n– September 7\, 2025\n– October 5\, 2025\n– November 2\, 2025\n– December 7\, 2025\n\nThere 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 \n\nMore Qari Amar: https://mcceastbay.org/amar\nImam al-Haddad’s litanies (al-Wird al-Latif): https://mcceastbay.org/wird\nThe Prophet (Peace be upon him) said\, “He who performs the Fajr will be under the protection of Allah.” [Muslim]\nThe Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “The best prayer before Allah is the Fajr prayer on Friday in the congregation.”\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n  \n  \n  \n \n  \n  URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/monthly-teamfajr-6-2-2/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Family Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Monthly-TeamFajr-Quran-Khatam.png ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250907T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250907T153000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250814T171115Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250910T170444Z UID:10023908-1757253600-1757259000@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:The Final Rites: Ghusl & Shroud Workshop (For Sisters & Brothers) DESCRIPTION:Would you know what to do if a loved one passed away? \nJoin parallel individual sessions for sisters & brothers in a step-by-step\, practical session designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to carry out the final rites following the Qur’an and Sunnah. Hands-on workshop; ages 18+ only. No children\, please. \n2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. | Sunday\, September 7\, 2025 | MCC Conference Room (women) & MCC Prayer Hall (men) | Free; no registration required \n“He who washes a dead body and conceals what he notices of physical defects\, he will be forgiven forty times.” [Al-Hakim] \nThis hands-on workshop includes a full live demonstration of the washing (ghusl) and shrouding process\, allowing you to learn and ask questions in a supportive environment. \nRehana Markar facilitates the sisters’ workshop. Sidi Abdur Rehman facilitates the men’s workshop. Both are lead volunteers for body washing in the East Bay. \nAfter the parallel workshops\, you can sign up to prepare bodies for burial at the Islamic Society of East Bay’s morgue. These parallel and separate men’s and women’s workshops are conducted by experienced mortuary volunteers. This is an excellent opportunity for couples. \nThis workshop’s content and washing simulation are inappropriate for children and adults who are faint of heart. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n\n– MCC’s Islamic End of Life Talks Playlist: https://mcceastbay.org/end-of-life\n– Islamic burial services in the San Francisco Bay Area’s East Bay: https://mcceastbay.org/funeral\n– To volunteer with the ISEB Mortuary\, (men) please get in touch with Brother Abdur Rehman at 2abdurrehman@gmail.com or (510) 366-5205\n– To volunteer with the ISEB Mortuary\, (women) please get in touch with Sister Rehana Markar at (510) 406-4652 or rehanamarkar@hotmail.com\n\n  \n“He who washes a dead body and conceals what he notices of physical defects\, he will be forgiven forty times.” [Al-Hakim] \nTopics covered in this workshop include: \n\n– What to do when death occurs?\n– Forms required by the State of California\n– Order of preference for who is preferred to perform the ghusl on the deceased\n– What should we do before we start the ghusl (body washing)?\n– Preparing the kafan (shroud) and ghusl items (soap\, warm water\, camphor (powdered dry sidr leaves)\, cardboard box\, etc.\n– Preparing and cutting the kafan\n– Preparing the body for washing and the process of washing the body\n– Applying the shroud to the washed body\n– What to do after shrouding the body?\n\nWe will describe how to perform the Islamic ceremonial process of washing and shrouding a deceased person (mayit) before Janaza and burial. Al-Mayyit (Arabic: الميت) is the term to refer to the deceased in Islam. There are prescribed burial rites to be given upon the death of a Muslim\, including the salat al-mayyit\, or “prayer of the dead.”  \nAbdur Rehman is a prolific volunteer who has volunteered to wash and shroud Muslims in the East Bay for more than a decade. A convert to Islam from Hinduism\, he brings a unique understanding of the relationship to death and burial in both faith traditions. \nAt mosques\, Br. Abdul Rahman demonstrates practical ghusl and shrouding in workshops and he encourages area Muslims to learn how to wash their loved ones. He volunteers with the Fremont-based Islamic Society of East Bay’s mortuary. The masjid is also known as the Lowry masjid. Muslim funerals in the East Bay are community affairs\, and non-family members partake in several aspects of funerals\, from jānazah prayers to burials. Community members are essential in conducting ghusl\, a body-washing ritual on the deceased. In the ghusl ritual\, the entire dead body is washed\, which requires the helping hands of multiple people to lift and move the body around for washing. Muslim families often need outside assistance from the community to wash their deceased because they don’t have family members trained to perform it or are too emotional to perform it themselves. In such instances\, volunteers step up to help families wash their deceased loved ones. \nHow Volunteers Become Involved\nMany might be surprised to learn that anyone would volunteer to wash the dead body of a stranger. \nEthics of Washing\nWashing the body of the dead requires an ethical approach. It is an act that should be carried out in a dignified and respectful manner\, and we must avoid causing harm to the body. In addition to not harming the body\, the ethical approach includes avoiding idle talk around the body\, making prayers for the dead individual\, and making sure that all the steps of the ghusl are correctly done. Under the pressure to finish washing the body in time for the burial. \nLessons from Volunteering (“He is down today\, I am tomorrow.”)\nThe experience of washing during funerals does not simply remain in the wash facilities; instead\, the volunteers carry lessons from the experience into their lives. Volunteers say that dealing with death has instilled them with humility. In remembering death while washing\, it reminds us of the meaning in life: family\, community\, living a righteous life\, and above all\, worshiping her Creator. \nResources\n\nMCC’s Islamic End of Life Talks Playlist\nIslamic Will & Trust Templates: Version 1\, Version 2\, Version 3\, Version 4\nA Guide for the Muslim Funeral\nPractical Ghusl and Shrouding\nIslamic Estate Planning (video presentation)\nThe Islamic Perspective on End-of-Life Care (video presentation)\nThe Soul’s Journey After Death | Shaykh Alaeddin El Bakri\nResources from the TWO GODS Documentary Film\nFive Wishes: Advanced Planning Guide\nFAQ – Islamic Wills & Trusts\nNoor Islamic & Cultural Community Center (NICCC) in Concord – Islamic Mortuary\n\nWashing & Shrouding The Deceased Muslim\nWhen a Muslim dies\, it is the responsibility of his family or other Muslims to wash him according to the Islamic rites of washing the deceased. Two or three people may perform the washing. The person(s) who may wash the deceased should: \n\n– Be a trustworthy and honest adult Muslim(s).\n– Know the Islamic way of washing the dead and be able to carry out the washing.\n– Do not make any comment on the body of the deceased.\n\nNote \n\n– If the deceased is a male\, then ONLY males should wash him.\n– If the deceased is a female\, then ONLY females should wash her.\n– For a married person\, the spouse may perform the washing.\n– For a child\, either males or females may wash.\n\n Place of washing \n\n– The deceased’s body should be washed in a clean\, secluded\, and private place where clean water and soap are available. Gloves or pieces of cloth are needed. – The body of the deceased should be washed with water and\, if available\, lotus leaves or camphor (To be used in the final wash). – The washing should be done three or five\, or any odd number of times if necessary.\n\nSteps of washing \n\n– The body of the deceased should be placed on a table or similar\, the deceased’s clothes should be removed\, and the body should be covered with a sheet of cloth.\n– The head and the upper body should be raised slightly to ensure the washing water with exudations from the body flows down and does not run back to the body.\n– The deceased’s Aura (private parts) should be covered with a piece of cloth. The Aura of a male is from the belly button to the knee in the presence of males\, for the female is the same in the presence of females.\n– The washer should start washing by saying:” Bismillah “\,” In the name of Allah “.\n– The washer winds a piece of cloth around his hand\, and with this\, he cleans away any impurities from the body using water. Then he should dispose of this piece.\n– The washer should take another piece of cloth around his hand\, press lightly the stomach of the deceased so as so to expel\, if possible\, any remnants from it\, and then wash the body of all impurities using water. Then he should dispose of this piece of cloth.\n– The washer should take another piece of cloth around his hand (may use gloves)\, and wash the covered private parts\, then dispose of this piece of cloth.\n– The washer should perform Wudu (ablution) on the deceased without inserting the water in the nose and in the mouth.\n– The washer should clean the body with water and soap\, if available\, starting from the head (hair\, face\, and beard {men})\, then the upper right side of the body\, then the left side\, after that the lower right side\, then the lower left.\n– In the case of a female\, her hair should be loosened\, washed\, combed\, and be braided in three braids\, and placed behind her back. The washing should be done three times\, or five times\, or seven times\, as needed\, providing that after washing the head\, wash the right side before the left\, and the upper parts before the lower ones.\n– In the last wash\, the washer may use camphor or some perfume with the water.\n– After that\, the body should be dried with a clean towel.\n– Then the body should be covered with a white sheet.\n– You now get ready to start the shrouding.\n\nSpecial Note: In case the deceased is a female in her menstrual period or has childbirth bleeding\, padding should be used to prevent blood from leaving the body. Note: \n\n– It is recommended that those who performed the washing should take a bath.\n– It is recommended that those who performed the washing should make Wudu.\n– All of this is based on authentic Hadith that Um Atiyah narrated that: ” When the daughter of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) died\, he instructed us:‘ Wash her three times\, or more than that if you feel it is necessary\, with water and sidr(good smelling leaves)\, and then after the last wash apply some camphor to the body \, then loosen her hair\, wash it\, comb it\, and make it in three braids laid behind her back ” (Bukhari & Muslim).\n\n\nNote: \n\n– There is no Islamic teaching of reading the Quran during the Ghusul.\n\n– There is no Islamic teaching of making special dhikr (Certain words to remember Allah) during the Ghusul. Shrouding the Deceased Muslim – Shrouding should start just after washing the body of the deceased. It is recommended to use white sheets made of inexpensive material. Extravagance is not recommended in the Kafan (Shroud). Aisha relates that: ” When the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) died\, he was shrouded in three white sheets from Yemen” (Bukhari & Muslim). The shroud (kafan) of a male: The Kafan of a male should consist of three white winding sheets about{7 x 7 feet}\, clean and large enough to conceal the whole body\, after having been perfumed with incense. Use 4 tie ropes\, each 7 feet long. The material of the sheet should not be silk\, nor should any gold be used. Steps of shrouding \n\n– The winding sheets should be spread out one on top of the other.\n– The deceased\, covered with a sheet\, is lifted and laid on his back on the winding sheets.\n– Some scent or perfume may be put on those parts of the body upon which one rests during prostration\, that is\, the forehead\, nose\, hands\, knees\, and feet.\n– If it is possible\, the deceased’s left hand should be placed on his chest\, then put his right hand on the left hand as in the Salat (Prayer).\n– The edge of the top sheet is folded over the deceased’s right side\, then the other edge over his left side. Then the second sheet should be folded the same way. The third and the largest sheet should be treated the same way.\n– These sheets should be fastened with a piece of cloth {Tie ropes}\, one above the head\, another under the feet\, and two around the body. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/bodywashing-workshop/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Body-Washing-2025.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250910T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250910T200000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250508T172507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T154346Z UID:10023939-1757529000-1757534400@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Secrets of Divine Love – Men’s Book Club DESCRIPTION:Join us for a weekly book club and discussion group as we collectively strive to mindfully open our hearts to Allah’s love for us and our love for Allah. We will read and reflect on A. Helwa’s internationally acclaimed book\, Secrets of Divine Love: A Spiritual Journey into the Heart of Islam (Studying Qur’an & Hadith). \nEach session will cover one chapter\, including group discussions\, reflections\, and selected exercises from the book. \nThe first session will be abridged\, focusing on the Introduction and the “Reading with an Open Heart” preface. It will also set the stage for the remainder of the series for those planning to attend most or all sessions. \nWhile we encourage consistent attendance for the benefit of shared reflection and continuity\, each session is self-contained\, and participants are welcome to drop in even if they cannot commit to every week. Sidi Mohammed Kaddoura facilitates this group. \nStarts May 14 | Wednesdays | 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Conference Room | In-person only \nClass Schedule (Download discussion guide)\n\nIntroduction & Reading with an Open Heart\n    May 14\, 2025\nChapter 1 – Allah\n    May 21\, 2025\nChapter 2 – Humanity\n    May 28\, 2025\nChapter 3 – Qur’an\n    June 4\, 2025\nChapter 4 – Islam / Iman / Ihsan\n    June 11\, 2025\nChapter 5 – Tawba\n    June 18\, 2025\nChapter 6 – Shahadah\n    June 25\, 2025\nChapter 7 – Salat\n    July 2\, 2025\nChapter 8 – Zakat\n    July 9\, 2025\nChapter 9 – Ramadan\n    July 16\, 2025\nChapter 10 – Hajj\n    July 23\, 2025\nChapter 11 – Death\n    July 30\, 2025\nChapter 12 – Heaven and Hell\n    August 6\, 2025\nConclusion\n    August 13\, 2025\n\nDisclaimer\nThis book club is intended to stimulate thought and reflection\, not to teach deen. It is not a fiqh or aqidah class. The book contains various concepts and references that may not align with traditional Islamic scholarship. \nIf you have any questions about what scholars say regarding a topic discussed in the book or during the sessions\, we strongly recommend consulting a scholar you know and trust. You may also forward your question to the organizers so we can seek guidance from a qualified scholar and share it with the group. \nWe approach the book’s abstract ideas as thought experiments and the exercises as opportunities for spiritual reflection\, not as a substitute for traditional Islamic scholarship. \nDiscussion Group Guidelines\n\nEveryone has something to say; everyone has something to learn.\nShy participants are encouraged to contribute.\nTalkative participants are encouraged to listen more.\nConfidentiality is essential.\nDo not share other participants’ reflections outside the group. It’s okay to say\, “someone in my book club made me think about…” but not “so-and-so said…”\nGive 70 excuses.\nAssume good intentions. If disagreements arise\, remember our shared goal is growth. We leave differences in the room and continue with brotherhood outside of it.\nMaintain emotional awareness.\nThe topics we discuss may evoke strong emotions. All participants are expected to remain calm\, respectful\, and emotionally intelligent. Please avoid getting carried away in conversation. Proper etiquette is required at all times.\n\nBook Purchase\nPlease purchase the book in advance if you want to follow along. Available at:\nhttps://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Divine-Love-Spiritual-Journey/dp/1734231203\nAudiobook voiced by the author also available. \nAbout the Book\nSecrets of Divine Love was written for the longing heart\, searching for meaning\, hope\, or healing. It is for anyone who has felt distant from God or overwhelmed by their imperfections. \nThis book serves as a guide back to divine peace and surrender. Through the practices and pillars of Islam\, A. Helwa invites readers to unlock their spiritual potential and deepen their relationship with Allah. Blending Qur’an verses\, Hadith\, poetry\, psychology\, science\, and mystical stories\, the book offers a heart-based yet intellectually grounded approach to spiritual growth. \n\nAuthor: A. Helwa\nPaperback: 385 pages\nBinding: Softcover\nPublisher: Naulit Publishing House\n\nAbout the Author\nHelwa believes the Divine deeply loves every person. Her popular blog\, @quranquotesdaily\, began as a personal effort during her Master of Divinity studies and has grown to inspire hundreds of thousands. With over 15 years of experience in Islamic spirituality and writing\, she combines traditional sources and personal insight to help readers connect to Divine love in everyday life.\nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n \n  URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/mens-book-club/2025-09-10/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Mens-Book-Club.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250911T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250911T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250731T235037Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250731T235038Z UID:10023892-1757584800-1757588400@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Mommy and Me Fall '25 Session | MCC's Mommy & Me Program DESCRIPTION:In this eight-week session\, our toddlers and pre-schoolers (ages 1-5) will develop love for Islam\, Allah (swt)\, and RasulAllah (saw) through book reading\, sing-alongs\, Parachute Time\, activities\, and more! \nThursdays: 08/14\, 08/21\, 08/28\, 09/04\, 09/11\, 09/18\, 09/25\, 10/02\, and Saturday\, 09/06 | 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Conference Room | $120 for all 8 sessions\, or $75 for 5 sessions\, or $20 per session | Register at mcceastbay.org/happyhearts \nThese Mommy & Me sessions are designed for girls and boys ages one to four who are accompanied by a female guardian. Moms\, grandmothers\, and so on are welcome. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other moms and caretakers in the MCC community. \nOur Mommy and Me sessions begin with dua and a salaam/greeting song and end with the Fi-Amanillah song and kid-favorite parachute time. \nQuestions? Happy Hearts Playgroup Facilitator Sr. Khadija at mommyandme@mcceastbay.org \nMCC 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 URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/mommy-and-me-fall-25/2025-09-11/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Happy-Hearts-Fall.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T163000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250528T215732Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T215732Z UID:10023632-1757682000-1757694600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:ICNA Relief Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs DESCRIPTION:ICNA Relief is a nonprofit organization that uplifts lives with compassion\, empowering women\, supporting refugees\, and providing food to those in need. \nStop by their table and discover how you can be part of this beautiful mission! URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/icna-relief-tables-mcc-jumuahs-5/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/ICNA-Relief-Logo-Muslims-For-Humanity.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250908T150230Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250909T062030Z UID:10024023-1757683800-1757692800@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Afghan Relief Tables @ MCC Jumu’ahs DESCRIPTION:Afghan Relief is a US-based nonprofit that helps widows and orphans in Afghanistan. They are currently assisting victims impacted by the devastating earthquakes that struck Kunar\, Afghanistan. Hundreds have lost their lives\, and thousands are injured and displaced. Afghan Relief is on the ground providing shelter\, food\, healthcare\, and urgent aid. \nVisit the table this Friday to support their relief efforts. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/afghan-relief-tables-mcc-jumuahs/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Earthquake.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250911T224920Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T224920Z UID:10024028-1757683800-1757692800@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Jumu’ah Services @ MCC & Rosewood DESCRIPTION:For MCC’s four Jumu’ah services on Friday\, Sep. 12\, 2025: \n\n1:30 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.\n\nHafiz Atef Arabi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay\n\n\n1:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.\n\nTBA delivers this sermon at Rosewood Conference Center\, 4450 Rosewood Dr.\, Pleasanton\n\n\n2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m.\n\nHafiz Atef Arabi delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay\n\n\n3:40 p.m. – 4 p.m.\n\nHafiz Yaseen Mahmoud delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay\n\n\n\n*Please attend at 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. at MCC to avoid heavier first-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 (Building 5).\, Pleasanton. Rosewood is just a four-minute drive from MCC.\n\nPlease note that the former HP lot (now Pleasanton School District) is no longer available to our congregation. Please come to the third or fourth Jumuah at MCC to ease up parking congestion or\, better yet\, attend our weekly parallel satellite prayer from 1:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m. at Rosewood Center (Building 5): https://mcceastbay.org/rosewood \n\n– Virtually watch the three MCC sermons from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live\n– More Hafiz Atef: mcceastbay.org/atef\n– More Hafiz Yaseen: mcceastbay.org/yaseen\n\nFor 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. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n \n  URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/weekly-jumuah-services-mcc-rosewood-5/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Friday-Jumuah-Khateebs-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250828T213939Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250915T180838Z UID:10023951-1757703600-1757710800@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Grief Begins with Love | Sofia Safi DESCRIPTION:Loss touches every soul. It is born from love\, and when it arrives\, it reshapes the way we navigate the world. Some losses are so deep\, they stay beside us—silent companions in every step. \nJoin Sofia Safi\, author of A Flower for You: A Poem for All the What Would Have Been of You\, as she shares her story of child loss and the journey of carrying grief with honesty. \nThis gathering is for anyone who has loved\, lost\, and continues to carry the “what could have been.” Come as you are with your love and pain. \nFriday\, Sep. 12 | 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | MCC Prayer Hall | Join in-person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \nThe book will be available for purchase for $14. The author will sign. \nThe book can also be purchased on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Flower-You-Poem-Would-Beens/dp/1733642102 \nAbout the Book\nThis beautifully illustrated book aims to wrap those who need it in understanding. When a child passes\, so does their future\, along with the hopes and dreams that parents and loved ones had for them. Those who have experienced child loss may find themselves wondering about the milestones and memories they will now never have with their child. Those thoughts are captured here in words and images by someone who understands. A Flower for You also allows for personalization\, with a space for readers to add a picture and share thoughts about the child who has passed away. \nNote from the Author\nIn honor of beautiful baby Hamza\, please take a copy of this book and donate it to your local library. Or keep it in your collection. Or gift it to someone who may find comfort within its pages. However you choose to share it\, may it offer a moment of solace to someone who needs it. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/flower-for-you/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/A-Flower-for-You-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250913T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250913T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250908T184907Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T184907Z UID:10024024-1757746800-1757757600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Monthly Sisterhood Hike | Sisters in the Outdoors DESCRIPTION:Join us at 7 a.m. on Saturday\, Sep. 13\, for a hike at Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park near Sunol to get to know other sisters in the community and enjoy the great outdoors. No children\, please (female teens\, okay). Let us know you are coming: https://mcceastbay.org/rsvp \nIf sisters want to walk around more\, they can do it depending on their interest/time. The hike will be canceled if there are not enough RSVPs or depending on the weather. \n\n– When: Saturday\, Sep. 13\n– Time: 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. – Please arrive a little early to park and find the group. The group can wait till 7:10 a.m. and will start the hike. Please be on time\, since we cannot hold the group.\n– Carpool: We highly recommend carpooling. No carpool is available from MCC for this hike. Carpooling encouraged others on this hike. Please note that cell phone service is not available at the parking lot\, so we kindly request that you arrive on time.\n– Parking: We will meet in the parking lot outside the gate. Please do not go inside the park even if the gate is open. We like to emphasize that there is no cell reception in the parking lot\, so please be there on time\, as we will not break the group to come back to get someone from the parking lot if they are running late.\n– Meeting Point: Parking lot\, Foothill Staging Area\, Foothill Rd\, Sunol\, CA 94586\n– Trail:  Olive and Thermalito Trail Loop\n– Distance: 4.5 miles\n– Difficulty: Moderate\n– Misc: Wear hiking shoes if possible. There will be a small water crossing\, and your shoes might get wet. Bring a small breakfast/ Lunch sandwich or something to eat. Carry enough water\, a hat\, and a light jacket. Please download All Trails map (free version) in case you decide to return in the middle of the hike. This will be very helpful in navigating back to the parking lot.\n– RSVP: By Friday\, Sep. 12\, please let us know you are coming for this hike: https://mcceastbay.org/rsvp\n\nSr. Aparna Khan and Sr. Sohaila will be leading this hike. If you have trouble finding the group on the day of the hike\, please call or text Sr. Aparna at (408) 480-6584 or Sr. Sohaila at (925) 786-7698. Please remember that we cannot hold all the group\, so we request you to please be on time. \nFor future hikes\, please subscribe to the MCC newsletter and/or add your phone number to the Women’s Hiking WhatsUp group. \nPlease wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes\, carry a water bottle\, a small snack\, a hat\, sunglasses\, and hiking poles if you have one.  \nQuestions? hiking@mcceastbay.org \nAbout this trail: \nCheck out this 4.5-mile loop trail near Sunol\, California. Generally considered a moderately challenging route\, it takes an average of 2 h 27 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding\, hiking\, and running\, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/monthly-sisters-hike-4/ LOCATION:Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park\, Pleasanton\, CA\, Foothill Rd.\, Pleasanton\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Women's Activities ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Monthly-Sisterhood-Hike.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250913T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250913T103000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250901T232610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T232612Z UID:10023954-1757750400-1757759400@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Monthly Men's Hike | Dublin Hills Regional Park DESCRIPTION:For Brothers! Join a brotherhood that hikes through life’s ups and downs\, finding strength and community in the great outdoors. Our Monthly MCC Brothers Hike caters to various fitness levels and explores East Bay’s serene landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to start\, we welcome you to share in this journey of fellowship and discovery.\n\nSaturday\, September 13 | 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. | Dublin Hills Regional Park | No children\, please (teenage boys\, okay) | RSVP at mcceastbay.org/brothers-hike \nIf brothers want to walk around more\, they can do it depending on their interest/time. The hike will be canceled if there are insufficient RSVPs\, pending weather conditions. \n\nWhen: Saturday\, September 13\, 2025\nTime:  8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – Please arrive early to park and find the group. The group can wait till 8:10 a.m. and will start the hike. Please be on time since we cannot hold the group.\nCarpool: We highly recommend carpooling. No carpool from MCC is available for this hike. \nParking: Free\nMeeting Point: Martin Canyon Creek Trailhead\nTrail: Dublin Hills\nDistance: Around 5 miles.\nDifficulty: Moderate.\nMisc: Pack a snack and water for yourself. Wear hiking shoes if possible. Bring a small breakfast/ Lunch sandwich or something to eat. Carry enough water\, a hat\, and a light jacket. Please download the All Trails map (free version) if you decide to return in the middle of the hike. This will be very helpful when navigating back to the parking lot.\nRSVP: By Friday\, September 12\, please let us know you are coming for this hike: https://mcceastbay.org/brothers-hike\n\nMohammed Kadoura leads these monthly hikes for the brothers. If you have trouble finding the group on the day of the hike\, please call or text Br. Mohammed at (617) 935-7347. Please remember that we cannot hold all of the group\, so we request you to please be on time. \nFor future hikes\, please subscribe to the MCC newsletter and add your phone number to the Men’s Hiking WhatsApp group. \nPlease wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes\, carry a water bottle\, a small snack\, a hat\, sunglasses\, and hiking poles if you have any.  \nQuestions? hiking@mcceastbay.org  \nAbout this trail: \nDiscover this 5.0-mile loop trail near Dublin\, California. Generally considered a moderately challenging route\, it takes an average of 2 h 33 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking\, running\, and walking\, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/monthly-mens-hike-13/ LOCATION:Dublin Hills Regional Park CATEGORIES:Men's Activities ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Mens-Hike.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250913T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250913T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250828T182654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T182656Z UID:10023946-1757755800-1757761200@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Saturday Morning Flag Football Sessions for Boys DESCRIPTION:For Boys Ages 7-14: Join us for four sessions of flag football\, which includes warm-ups\, basics\, drills\, and games. These sessions are organized by peers in our community who love working with youth. \nSaturdays\, 9/13\, 9/20\, 9/27\, & 10/4 | 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | Creekside Park | Boys Ages 7-14 | $50 for all 4 sessions or $15/session; register at mcceastbay.org/flag-football\n\nLimited to 60 participants. \nDads are encouraged to come and stay and participate as well. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \nMCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attaining knowledge offered within the four walls of MCC the facility. To request a financial waiver or discount\, please complete: https://mcceastbay.org/scholarship \nCamp facilitators\nAzmat Zeeshan Mukhtar is a local father and mentor from our community who enjoys sports and spending time with kids. He will organize the activities and recruit other dads to help volunteer\, making this a rewarding experience for our young Muslim boys. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/boys-flag-football/2025-09-13/ LOCATION:Creekside Park\, 5601 W Las Positas Blvd\, Pleasanton\, California\, 94588 ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Flag-Football.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250914T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250914T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250911T181736Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T183528Z UID:10024016-1757840400-1757844000@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:*Canceled* Muslimah Girls Flag Football Team DESCRIPTION:Sep. 14 session has been canceled. \nFor Girls Ages 12-18: Join us twice a month on Sunday mornings for girls-only flag football sessions. We will start with a short dua\, followed by warm-ups\, drills\, and games.  \nDedicated volunteers lead these sessions in our community. Moms are also welcome to join. \nSunday\, Sep. 14 & 28  | 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. | Emerald High School | Girls Ages 12-18 | $15/session | Register at mcceastbay.org/girls-flag-football \nCapped at 30 participants. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \nAbout the facilitator: \nBelqees Barethz is an active member of the East Bay community who grew up in the Tri-Valley Area and has enjoyed playing sports from a young age. While most of the other females in the family would be enjoying their time sitting and talking at park gatherings\, Belqees would be out on the field playing volleyball\, football\, or any other sport. Her passion for sports\, particularly flag football\, has led her to initiate these sessions specifically for young Muslimahs. She is excited to offer them to the community for the first time. Belqees is passionate about giving back to the community in one way or another and believes this will be a fun way to bring the youth together insha’Allah. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/girls-flag-football-2-3/ LOCATION:Emerald High School ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Girls-Flag-Football.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250917T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250917T200000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250508T172507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T154346Z UID:10024037-1758133800-1758139200@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Secrets of Divine Love – Men’s Book Club DESCRIPTION:Join us for a weekly book club and discussion group as we collectively strive to mindfully open our hearts to Allah’s love for us and our love for Allah. We will read and reflect on A. Helwa’s internationally acclaimed book\, Secrets of Divine Love: A Spiritual Journey into the Heart of Islam (Studying Qur’an & Hadith). \nEach session will cover one chapter\, including group discussions\, reflections\, and selected exercises from the book. \nThe first session will be abridged\, focusing on the Introduction and the “Reading with an Open Heart” preface. It will also set the stage for the remainder of the series for those planning to attend most or all sessions. \nWhile we encourage consistent attendance for the benefit of shared reflection and continuity\, each session is self-contained\, and participants are welcome to drop in even if they cannot commit to every week. Sidi Mohammed Kaddoura facilitates this group. \nStarts May 14 | Wednesdays | 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Conference Room | In-person only \nClass Schedule (Download discussion guide)\n\nIntroduction & Reading with an Open Heart\n    May 14\, 2025\nChapter 1 – Allah\n    May 21\, 2025\nChapter 2 – Humanity\n    May 28\, 2025\nChapter 3 – Qur’an\n    June 4\, 2025\nChapter 4 – Islam / Iman / Ihsan\n    June 11\, 2025\nChapter 5 – Tawba\n    June 18\, 2025\nChapter 6 – Shahadah\n    June 25\, 2025\nChapter 7 – Salat\n    July 2\, 2025\nChapter 8 – Zakat\n    July 9\, 2025\nChapter 9 – Ramadan\n    July 16\, 2025\nChapter 10 – Hajj\n    July 23\, 2025\nChapter 11 – Death\n    July 30\, 2025\nChapter 12 – Heaven and Hell\n    August 6\, 2025\nConclusion\n    August 13\, 2025\n\nDisclaimer\nThis book club is intended to stimulate thought and reflection\, not to teach deen. It is not a fiqh or aqidah class. The book contains various concepts and references that may not align with traditional Islamic scholarship. \nIf you have any questions about what scholars say regarding a topic discussed in the book or during the sessions\, we strongly recommend consulting a scholar you know and trust. You may also forward your question to the organizers so we can seek guidance from a qualified scholar and share it with the group. \nWe approach the book’s abstract ideas as thought experiments and the exercises as opportunities for spiritual reflection\, not as a substitute for traditional Islamic scholarship. \nDiscussion Group Guidelines\n\nEveryone has something to say; everyone has something to learn.\nShy participants are encouraged to contribute.\nTalkative participants are encouraged to listen more.\nConfidentiality is essential.\nDo not share other participants’ reflections outside the group. It’s okay to say\, “someone in my book club made me think about…” but not “so-and-so said…”\nGive 70 excuses.\nAssume good intentions. If disagreements arise\, remember our shared goal is growth. We leave differences in the room and continue with brotherhood outside of it.\nMaintain emotional awareness.\nThe topics we discuss may evoke strong emotions. All participants are expected to remain calm\, respectful\, and emotionally intelligent. Please avoid getting carried away in conversation. Proper etiquette is required at all times.\n\nBook Purchase\nPlease purchase the book in advance if you want to follow along. Available at:\nhttps://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Divine-Love-Spiritual-Journey/dp/1734231203\nAudiobook voiced by the author also available. \nAbout the Book\nSecrets of Divine Love was written for the longing heart\, searching for meaning\, hope\, or healing. It is for anyone who has felt distant from God or overwhelmed by their imperfections. \nThis book serves as a guide back to divine peace and surrender. Through the practices and pillars of Islam\, A. Helwa invites readers to unlock their spiritual potential and deepen their relationship with Allah. Blending Qur’an verses\, Hadith\, poetry\, psychology\, science\, and mystical stories\, the book offers a heart-based yet intellectually grounded approach to spiritual growth. \n\nAuthor: A. Helwa\nPaperback: 385 pages\nBinding: Softcover\nPublisher: Naulit Publishing House\n\nAbout the Author\nHelwa believes the Divine deeply loves every person. Her popular blog\, @quranquotesdaily\, began as a personal effort during her Master of Divinity studies and has grown to inspire hundreds of thousands. With over 15 years of experience in Islamic spirituality and writing\, she combines traditional sources and personal insight to help readers connect to Divine love in everyday life.\nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n \n  URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/mens-book-club/2025-09-17/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Mens-Book-Club.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250918T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250918T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134917 CREATED:20250731T235037Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250731T235038Z UID:10023893-1758189600-1758193200@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Mommy and Me Fall '25 Session | MCC's Mommy & Me Program DESCRIPTION:In this eight-week session\, our toddlers and pre-schoolers (ages 1-5) will develop love for Islam\, Allah (swt)\, and RasulAllah (saw) through book reading\, sing-alongs\, Parachute Time\, activities\, and more! \nThursdays: 08/14\, 08/21\, 08/28\, 09/04\, 09/11\, 09/18\, 09/25\, 10/02\, and Saturday\, 09/06 | 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Conference Room | $120 for all 8 sessions\, or $75 for 5 sessions\, or $20 per session | Register at mcceastbay.org/happyhearts \nThese Mommy & Me sessions are designed for girls and boys ages one to four who are accompanied by a female guardian. Moms\, grandmothers\, and so on are welcome. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other moms and caretakers in the MCC community. \nOur Mommy and Me sessions begin with dua and a salaam/greeting song and end with the Fi-Amanillah song and kid-favorite parachute time. \nQuestions? Happy Hearts Playgroup Facilitator Sr. Khadija at mommyandme@mcceastbay.org \nMCC 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 URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/mommy-and-me-fall-25/2025-09-18/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Happy-Hearts-Fall.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250918T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250918T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250904T231017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T102154Z UID:10024015-1758223800-1758229200@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Gathering of the Hearts | Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi DESCRIPTION:Join Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi for our monthly in-person and online gathering for women (ages 18+) to commune\, reflect\, discuss\, and gain strength and support from each other. \n7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Monthly on Thursdays | Free; no registration required | Conference Room or watch live online at https://mcceastbay.org/live \nIn this class\, we use “Purification of the Heart” and “Foundations of the Spiritual Path” By Sidi Ahmad Zarruq\, Translated by Hamza Yusuf. Download the book at HTTP://mcceastbay.org/foundations \nWatch past session recordings at https://mcceastbay.org/muslimah-purification \nWe discuss spirituality\, self-development\, relevant and contemporary topics\, and issues related to Muslim women’s roles and responsibilities in today’s knotted-up world. We also examine “Purification of the Heart: Signs\, Symptoms\, and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart” by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf. \n\n– More Ustadha Hosai: https://mcceastbay.org/hosai\n– ‘Purification of the Heart’ Series: (Adults): https://mcceastbay.org/heart-purification\n– ‘Purification of the Heart’ Series: (Women): https://mcceastbay.org/muslimah-purification\n– ‘Purification of the Heart’ Series (Teens): https://mcceastbay.org/purification\n– ‘Agenda to Change our Condition’ Series: https://mcceastbay.org/agenda\n– ‘Modern Muslim Parenting’ Series: https://mcceastbay.org/islamic-parenting\n\nThis is a discussion-based group\, and participation is not only encouraged\, but it is required. \nSorry\, no babysitting provided. The in-person option is for women only\, or the virtual option so anyone can watch live on: \n\n– YouTube: https://mcceastbay.org/live\n– Facebook: https://mcceastbay.org/facebook\n– Instagram: https://mcceastbay.org/instagram\n\nAbout Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi: \nHosai Mojaddidi is the co-founder of mentalhealth4muslims.com\, where she advocates for and writes about various mental health-related topics tailored for Muslims. She has served the American-Muslim community for nearly 20 years as an activist\, writer/editor\, mediator\, interfaith organizer\, and public speaker\, covering a variety of topics\, including women’s issues\, marriage/family\, education\, self-development\, interfaith bridge-building\, spirituality\, etc. \nIn her spare time she enjoys reading\, writing\, blogging via social media (Facebook\, Instagram and Twitter)\, doing arts and crafts\, visiting gourmet coffee shops\, and exploring the countless beautiful parks\, beaches and nature preserves throughout Northern California where she lives with her husband\, two sons\, and fish named Max. \nThese monthly sessions are live-streamed and recorded. Watch past Ustadha Hosai recordings at https://mcceastbay.org/hosai \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/gathering-of-the-hearts-5/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Sisters Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Monthly-Womens-Gathering-730-time.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250812T162056Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T220010Z UID:10023906-1758288600-1758297600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Friends of Wadi Foquin Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs DESCRIPTION:Friends of Wadi Foquin\, a local Bay Area non-profit that supports the village of Wadi Foquin in Palestine\, will be hosting the founder of Khayari for a speaking and fundraising tour in the Bay Area. This Friday\, they will be raising funds for Khayari Women’s Leadership and Economic Empowerment Organization – which is based in Bethlehem\, Palestine. Please visit their table and learn more about how you can support them. \nOn Friday\, September 19\, local Bay Area groups supporting Khayari Foundation\, which is an organization located in Bethlehem that seeks to empower Palestinian women. We are very blessed to be hosting the founder of Khayari on Sunday inshallah from 6-7 pm \nCcommunity members will be tabling today on behalf of Khayari Foundation. Khayari is an organization located in Bethlehem that seeks to empower Palestinian women. We are very blessed to be hosting the founder of Khayari on Sunday from 6-7 pm. Learn more here. \nWadi Foquin is the site of a community development project supported through the United Methodist Church’s General Board of Global Ministries (Advance project #3021565). A resolution supporting Wadi Foquin was passed at the church’s May 2016 General Conference acknowledging the challenges of settlement expansion and recent land confiscation orders. The resolution calls for accountability from the Israeli government for the destruction of land and life in Wadi Foquin. It also calls on U.S. officials to contact the Israeli government to immediately halt the illegal Israeli settlements and confiscation of Palestinian land. \nWays to Support Wadi Foquin\n\n\nPrayer  – commit to praying for Wadi Foquin\, its concerns and needs. Contact Rev. Michael Yoshii  at michaelyoshii1@gmail.com.\nEngagement  – organize and promote community events that highlight Wadi Foquin and Israel/Palestine issues. Contact Rev. Emily Lin at Emily.Lin@cnumc.org or Rev. Mike Friedrich at deaconmike99@gmail.com.\nAdvocacy – participate in campaigns prompted by Wadi Foquin. Contact Rev. Michael Yoshii at michaelyoshii1@gmail.com.\nStudy  – organize opportunities for study on Palestine/Israel. Contact Rev. Naomi Southard at  Nosouth@aol.com or Linda Weingarten at weingarten.linda@gmail.com.\nGiving  – fundraise for Wadi Foquin projects\, campaigns\, and needs. Contact Jean Hart at jeanhart65@gmail.com. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/friends-of-wadi-foquin-tables-mcc-jumuahs/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Friends-of-Wadi-Foquin.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250908T145442Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250912T163359Z UID:10024022-1758288600-1758297600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Gifting Dreams Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs DESCRIPTION:Gifting Dreams is recruiting tutors to expand tutoring and mentorship programs\, supporting Afghan youth served by the MCC-SRVIC Refugee Team. This nonprofit organization also supports individuals seeking help with specific school subjects\, general studies\, or emotional support. \nVisit their table this Friday to learn more about their cause and how you can support them. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/gifting-dreams-tables-mcc-jumuahs-2/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/gifting-dreams.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250918T194905Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T213804Z UID:10024054-1758288600-1758297600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Jumu’ah Services @ MCC & Rosewood DESCRIPTION:For MCC’s four Jumu’ah services on Friday\, Sep. 26\, 2025: \n\n1:30 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.\n\nUstadh Munes Tomeh delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay\n\n\n1:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.\n\nUstadh Quran Hodge delivers this sermon at Rosewood Conference Center\, 4450 Rosewood Dr.\, Pleasanton\n\n\n2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m.\n\nUstadh Quran Hodge delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay\n\n\n3:40 p.m. – 4 p.m.\n\nSidi Shaan Mukhtar delivers this sermon at MCC East Bay\n\n\n\n*Please attend at 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. at MCC to avoid heavier first-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 (Building 5).\, Pleasanton. Rosewood is only a five-minute drive from MCC. \n\n\nPlease note that the former HP lot (now Pleasanton School District) is no longer available to our congregation. The District graciously provides the MCC congregation a limited number of parking space. Please come to the third or fourth Jumuah at MCC to ease up parking congestion or\, better yet\, attend our weekly parallel satellite prayer from 1:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m. at Rosewood Center (Building 5): https://mcceastbay.org/rosewood \n\n– Virtually watch the three MCC sermons from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live\n– More Ustadh Munes: https://mcceastbay.org/munes\n– More Ustadh Quran: https://mcceastbay.org/quran-hodge\n– More Sidi Shaan: https://mcceastbay.org/shaan\n\nFor 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. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n \n  URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/weekly-jumuah-services-mcc-rosewood-6/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Friday-Jumuah-Khateebs-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250904T172706Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260111T072424Z UID:10023963-1758308400-1758315600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Women's Weekly Friday Evening Halaqa | The Rahmah Foundation DESCRIPTION: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. \n\n\n\n7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Every Friday from September 19\, 2025\, to May 22\, 2026 |  MCC Conference Room | Free; no registration or RSVP required to attend in person | To join virtually\, register at https://mcceastbay.org/zoom \n\n\n\n\n\n\n– More Dr. Rania: https://mcceastbay.org/rania\n– Watch past Dr. Rania’s Friday Night Halaqa (FNH) recordings: https://mcceastbay.org/womens-halaqa\n– Join Dr. Rania’s WhatsUp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HlHmFFnGbwvCvLl6uGD1C4\n– The Rahmah Foundation’s Holiday Calendar: https://mcceastbay.org/rahmah-calendar\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe FNH Fall session runs from Friday\, September 19\, 2025\, to May 22\, 2026\, with no halaqas on the following dates: Friday\, November 28\, December 19\, December 26\, January 2\, February 20 through March 27\, April 3\, and April 10. See calendar. \n\n\n\nFree weekly babysitting is provided in Room 23. Facility map: https://mcceastbay.org/facility-map \n\n\n\nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n\n\n\n\n\nThis women’s halaqa is hosted at MCC and runs parallel to the girls & teens program in partnership with The Rahmah Foundation. \n\n\n\nUstadha 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. \n\n\n\nUstadha 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. \n\n\n\nLearn more about Dr. Rania and her work at http://med.stanford.edu/psychiatry/research/MuslimMHLab.html \n\n\n\nEvery Friday evening\, the MCC bustles with activity. MCC hosts four halaqas to increase God-consciousness for youth\, women\, and men. \n\n\n\nJoin 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 URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/womens-weekly-halaqa/2025-09-19/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Sisters Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Dr.-Rania-Awaads-Weekly-Friday-Evening-Halaqa.png ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250919T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250905T004830Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T191855Z UID:10024017-1758308400-1758315600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Start of the Young Muslimahs Weekly Friday Night Halaqa | The Rahmah Foundation DESCRIPTION:Our weekly Young Muslimahs Halaqa (grades PK – high school) restarts Friday\, Sept. 19\, and will continue every Friday until Ramadan ’26 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. For sisters\, Dr. Rania Awwad leads a parallel weekly women’s Halaqa. \n7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | MCC East Bay | Girls 4 to 18 | Register at http://mcceastbay.org/rahmah-halaqa (opens at 9 a.m. on Saturday\, Sept. 6) \nSpace is limited for our girls’ Friday night halaqa and will fill up within days. \n\nGirls’ Halaqa registration opens to all at 9 a.m. on Saturday\, Sept. 6\, 2025\, at http://mcceastbay.org/rahmah-halaqa\nIf you would like to volunteer\, please fill out the form here.\nSee The Rahmah Foundation 2025-26 calendar.\n\nQuestions? youngmuslimahscamp@gmail.com or events@mcceastbay.org \nThe MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a family in the East Bay from benefiting from any offering at the MCC facility. To request a financial waiver\, please complete the application at mcceastbay.org/scholarship \nThe 2025-26 session runs from Friday\, September 19\, 2025\, to May 22\, 2026\, with no halaqas on the following dates: Friday\, November 28\, December 19\, December 26\, January 2\, February 20 through March 27\, April 3\, and April 10. See The Rahmah Foundation 2025-26 calendar. \nFirst-come\, first-served. No waitlist once full. For Dr. Rania’s gathering\, no RSVP is needed. \nThis women’s halaqa is hosted at MCC East Bay and runs parallel to the girls & teens program in partnership with The Rahmah Foundation. \nThis halaqa is for girls ages 4 – 18 (PK-12th grade). Our purpose is to build strong bonds of sisterhood\, the love of Allah and His Prophet\, and establish salat. This halaqa meets on Friday nights at MCC East Bay from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. \nLocation: Muslim Community Center – East Bay (MCC East Bay)\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd\, 300\, Pleasanton\, CA 94588 \nDate and time: Fri\, Sep 19\, 2025 7:00 PM – Fri\, Dec 19\, 2025 9:00 PM \nSponsored by The Rahmah Foundation & MCC East Bay. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/young-muslimahs-halaqa/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/rahmah-halaqa.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250920T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250920T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250828T182654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T182656Z UID:10023947-1758360600-1758366000@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Saturday Morning Flag Football Sessions for Boys DESCRIPTION:For Boys Ages 7-14: Join us for four sessions of flag football\, which includes warm-ups\, basics\, drills\, and games. These sessions are organized by peers in our community who love working with youth. \nSaturdays\, 9/13\, 9/20\, 9/27\, & 10/4 | 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | Creekside Park | Boys Ages 7-14 | $50 for all 4 sessions or $15/session; register at mcceastbay.org/flag-football\n\nLimited to 60 participants. \nDads are encouraged to come and stay and participate as well. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \nMCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attaining knowledge offered within the four walls of MCC the facility. To request a financial waiver or discount\, please complete: https://mcceastbay.org/scholarship \nCamp facilitators\nAzmat Zeeshan Mukhtar is a local father and mentor from our community who enjoys sports and spending time with kids. He will organize the activities and recruit other dads to help volunteer\, making this a rewarding experience for our young Muslim boys. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/boys-flag-football/2025-09-20/ LOCATION:Creekside Park\, 5601 W Las Positas Blvd\, Pleasanton\, California\, 94588 ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Flag-Football.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250920T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250920T133000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250902T194739Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T115514Z UID:10023955-1758364200-1758375000@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Contemporary Public School Health Seminar For 8th & 9th Grade Muslim Students in Public High Schools DESCRIPTION:For 8th-10th Graders and Parents: Join us for a seminar to educate and empower Muslim youth on California-mandated health topics within a safe\, respectful\, and Islamically guided environment. \nThe seminar aims to fill a growing gap in values-based health education\, addressing key issues such as mental wellness\, sexual health\, relationships\, and personal safety—while preparing students to navigate public school health classes with clarity and confidence. \nSaturday\, Sep. 20 | 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | MCC Conference Room | 8th-10th Graders & Parents | In-person only | $25/student | Register at mcceastbay.org/health-seminar | This event will not be recorded or livestreamed. \nWe will have breakfast from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Come early! This talk is open to those attending public or private schools. \nBoys & Girls will have separate parallel sessions led by local doctors and teachers. Parallel sessions for parents on navigating the high school journey. \nCo-sponsored by MCC East Bay & Averroes High School. \nThis seminar educates and empowers Muslim youth on California-mandated health topics in a safe\, respectful\, Islamically-guided setting to help navigate public school health classes confidently. \nThe topics we will cover inshaAllah are: heath\, sexual education\, relationships\, and safety and wellness. \nMCC 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. \nKey takeaways you will gain from this session: \n\nYouth will gain knowledge of key health topics through a faith-based framework.\nThey will be better prepared for the state health curriculum with values-aligned clarity.\nThey will feel supported by trusted adults in their physical\, mental\, and spiritual development.\nThe seminar will foster confidence\, identity\, and decision-making grounded in Islamic teachings.\n\nWhat is being taught in public schools? \n\nSexual Health Education for California’s Youth (For High School & Community Settings) by Office of Adoscent Health (OAH) Evidence-Based Cirriculum\nSexual Health Education for America’s Youth for High School & Community Settings by Positive Prevention PLUS\nCA He​althy Kids Resources Center​\n\nAbout the Speakers \nUstadha Hosai Mojaddidi is the co-founder of MH4M (http://mentalhealth4muslims.com)\, established in 2010. For nearly 20 years\, she has been actively involved in the Bay Area and Southern California Muslim community\, working and volunteering for many notable organizations. Learn more about her at http://hosaimojaddidi.com \n– More Ustadha Hosai: http://mcceastbay.org/hosai \nQur’an Hodge is a Bay Area native. He began his Islamic education in 2019\, studying Arabic at the Al Maqasid Seminary in Pennsylvania. Sidi Quran continued to Dar Al Mustafa\, a Yemeni Islamic university in Tarim\, Hadhramaut. At this Islamic seminary founded by Habib Umar bin Hafiz\, Sidi Qur’an studied Ibtidaiyya\, Hadith\, Aqida\, Seerah\, Nahw\, Quran Hifzdh\, Kitaba\, and Tafseer in classical Arabic. Sidi Quran has completed certificates in Taleef Collective’s Refining the Core and Zaytuna College’s Permaculture Program. He is passionate about creatively working on community issues\, particularly the challenges Muslim youth face. He lives with his wife and child in Castro Valley. \nDr. Sana Ali is a Family Medicine physician practicing in Dublin and San Ramon since 2019. She grew up in the East Bay. Went to UC Davis and then Western U for medical school and residency at a UC Davis-affiliated community hospital in Modesto. She practices pediatrics\, family medicine\, women’s health. Parents panel speakers: \nBr. Karim Bayanzay is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California\, San Francisco\, in the Department of Hospital Medicine\, with a research focus on improving cancer care delivery in Afghanistan. Co-founder of Neurospinal Innovations\, a medical device company focused on improving pain using wave therapy. I am also President of Averroes High School. I also founded “the study spot” tutoring and mentoring center for teens. \nDr. Gul Zahid is a board-certified pediatrician based in the Bay Area. She has trained and practiced in a variety of clinical settings\, including academic centers and community clinics\, with a focus on preventive medicine. She has a special interest in mental health\, having completed additional training in the identification and management of mood and behavioral disorders in children and teens. Dr. Zahid is passionate about empowering families with knowledge and tools to support their children’s growth\, both physically and emotionally. \nCoach Faheem Rivers has over 25 years of experience working with youth. He is currently the principal at Averroes High School. He holds a degree in psychology\, served as a Dean of Discipline\, and is a passionate basketball coach. He has used sports to build resilience\, teamwork\, and discipline among young people. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \nObjective: To educate and empower Muslim youth on California-mandated health topics within a safe\, respectful\, and Islamically-guided environment. The seminar aims to fill a growing gap in values-based health education\, addressing key issues such as mental wellness\, sexual health\, relationships\, and personal safety—while preparing students to navigate public school health classes with clarity and confidence.\n\nConcerns that may come up: We understand that there may be concerns about the explicit nature of some topics included in the California-mandated health curriculum. To address this in a thoughtful and responsible way\, our proposed seminar will include a pediatrician who will verbally explain what students can expect to be taught in school\, helping to prepare them for the material in an age-appropriate and respectful manner. Alongside this\, our religious speaker will offer guidance on how students can navigate these topics at school while staying true to their Islamic values.\n\nExpected Outcomes:\n\n● Youth will gain knowledge of key health topics through a faith-based framework.\n● They will be better prepared for state health curriculum with values-aligned clarity.\n● They will feel supported by trusted adults in their physical\, mental\, and spiritual development.\n● The seminar will foster confidence\, identity\, and decision-making grounded in Islamic teachings.\n\nWhy This Seminar Matters:\nThis seminar is designed to fill a gap in the community and offer our youth a faith-based foundation in understanding critical health topics that are often presented through a secular lens in public schools. Many of today’s societal challenges—ranging from emotional distress and substance abuse to broken relationships and identity confusion—are deeply rooted in issues related to sexual\nhealth\, gender relations\, and the absence of values-based education. \nBy integrating California’s mandated health curriculum with Islamic teachings\, this seminar aims to: \n\n● Educate students on essential health topics in a way that honors their faith\, identity\, and values\n● Mentor them through the complex issues of adolescence\, equipping them with the tools to navigate peer pressure\, social media\, and conflicting societal norms\n● Support their emotional\, physical\, and spiritual development with guidance from trusted professionals and scholars\n● Prepare them for adulthood by instilling confidence\, clarity\, and a deep sense of responsibility grounded in Islamic principles\n\nUltimately\, this seminar serves as a healthier\, values-driven alternative to the often distorted version of health education they encounter in secular classrooms. It empowers our youth to make informed\, faith-aligned decisions that protect their well-being and uphold their Islamic identity as they grow into responsible\, God-conscious adults. \n \nEvent Schedule \n\n10:30 – 10:50(20 min) Sr. Hosai\n10:50– 11:20 (30 min) Breakout Girls – Sr. Sana & Boys only session – Ustadha Hosai\n11:20 – 12:00p.m (40 min) Girls rejoin\n\nBoys session- Br. Karim\nGirls session – Sr. Hosai\n\n\n12:00 – 12:15 (15 min) Stretch break and settle in\n12:15- 1:15 (1 hr) Ustadh Quran\n1:15- 1:30 (15 min) Q&A with Ustadh Quran with closing dua\n\nTitle: High school Health Class \n\nDate: August 30th ( Tentative ) \nAudience: 8 & 9th Grade Students\n\nNote: While the seminar is designed as a pre-requsite for 9th grade public school class\, we believe that all high schoolers can benefit from its content as it’ll provide a safe space for our youth to ask questions and gain clarity. \n\n\nSeminar Objective: \nTo educate and empower Muslim youth on California-mandated health topics taught in 9th grade within a safe\, respectful\, and Islamically-guided environment. This seminar is designed to fill a gap in the community and offer our youth a faith-based foundation in understanding critical health topics that are often presented through a secular lens in public schools. We will address key issues such as mental wellness\, sexual health\, relationships\, and personal safety. \nThis seminar prepares youth to navigate public school health class with clarity and confidence while empowering them to make informed\, faith-aligned decisions as they grow into responsible\, God-conscious adults. \nNOTE: Separate seminar for boys and girls. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/public-school-health-seminar/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Teen ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Updated4-Health-Seminar.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250920T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250920T200000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250508T211259Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T225815Z UID:10023608-1758393000-1758398400@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Monthly Mawlid Al Habib | Celebratory Gathering of Salutations on Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ DESCRIPTION:Connect more with Muhammad (peace be upon him) as we gather on the third Saturday of each month in remembrance and dhikr with Bay Area Munshideens and guest speakers. \nDuring each gathering\, Ustadh Tariq Samady will cover a chapter from the text The Kingdom of the Heart by Habib Umar b. Hafiz. \n6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. | Saturdays | MCC Conference Room | Join us in person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live \nDates for Monthly Family Mawlid at MCC East Bay in 2025\n \n\nSaturday\, January 18\, 2025\nSaturday\, February 15\, 2025\nNo session during Ramadan in March ’25\nSaturday\, April 19\, 2025\nSaturday\, May 17\, 2025\nSaturday\, June 21\, 2025\nSaturday\, July 19\, 2025\nSaturday\, August 16\, 2025\nSaturday\, September 20\, 2025\nSaturday\, October 18\, 2025\nSaturday\, November 22\, 2025\nSaturday\, December 20\, 2025\n\n \n\n– Watch past mawlid celebrations at MCC: http://mcceastbay.org/mawlid\n– More Sidi Tareq: https://mcceastbay.org/tariq\n– More sessions about the book using the monthly Mawlids\, “The Kingdom of the Heart”: http://mcceastbay.org/kingdom\n– Purchase “The Kingdom of the Heart” by Habib Umar bin Hafiz: https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Heart-Habib-Umar-Hafiz/dp/173537671X\n\nSponsored by Circles of Light & MCC East Bay. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org  \nThe Mawlid is a joyous expression of the greatest blessing from Allah. \nWe take this blessed opportunity monthly to remind ourselves of the three sacred rights that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ requires from us\, instilling in us a deep sense of respect and reverence. \n\n– Marifah – Recognizing who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is\n– Muhabbah – Loving the Messenger of Allah ﷺ\n– Ittiba’ – Obedience to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ\n\nThe second two (loving and obeying) are not entirely possible without truly recognizing the first\, who the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was. This recognition enlightens us and deepens our knowledge of his teachings. \n\n– Past mawlid celebrations at MCC: http://mcceastbay.org/mawlid\n\nAbout the Book\, “The Kingdom of the Heart”\n“Within every human being is a Kingdom. The heart is the ruler of this Kingdom\, and the rest of the body is its subjects. If the heart rules with justice and excellence\, the body will perform good actions\, and the Kingdom will flourish. If the heart neglects its duties\, the body will disobey Allah\, and the entire Kingdom will suffer the consequences. Allah ﷻ made this Kingdom so crucial that through it the eternal and everlasting dominion of the next life is either gained or lost.” The Kingdom of the Heart by Habib ‘Umar Bin Hafiz gives the reader a deeper understanding of the importance of cultivating the spiritual kingdom of the heart. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation of how outward actions have spiritual consequences. Some of the topics covered are: •⁠ ⁠The Tongue & Its Effects •⁠ ⁠Looking at Creation with Love & Mercy •⁠ ⁠The Impact of Shaking Hands •⁠ ⁠Attending to the Ending of Our Lives •⁠ ⁠The Impact of Intention This book uniquely shows the direct correlation between outward actions and the heart\, giving us insights into how various actions impact the state of our hearts. Ultimately\, it gives us a way to internalize the wisdom and purpose of acts of devotion\, resulting in the purification of the heart and nearness to Allah ﷻ. \nAbout the Author\nHabib Umar bin Hafiz (Arabic: حبيب عمر بن حفيظ\, romanized: Ḥabīb ʿUmar bin Ḥafīẓ; Arabic pronunciation: [ħabiːb ʕumar bin ħafiːðˤ]; born 27 May 1963) is a Yemeni Sunni and Sufi Islamic scholar\, teacher\, and founder and dean of Dar al-Mustafa Islamic seminary.[3] He is also a Supreme Advisory Council member for the Tabah Foundation in Abu Dhabi. \nUstadh Tariq Samady\nUstadh Tariq Samady is a native of the Bay Area with roots in the ancient city of Kabul. He has been a lifelong seeker of Islamic knowledge\, learning from a wide range of Muslim scholars\, both local and international. With the blessings of his teachers\, he has contributed to various educational programs and gatherings of dhikr. \nHis research and editing interests span Qur’an and Hadith commentaries\, Philology\, Spirituality\, and Persian Poetry. Tariq is the founder of Circles of Light (حلق النور)\, a fledgling educational initiative focused on sharing sacred learnings and wisdom for the community’s benefit. He studied Computer Science at California State University—East Bay and has over ten years of experience as a Developer and Analytics QA Engineer. \nAbout Circles of Light\nCircles of Light is a fledgling educational initiative focused on sharing sacred learnings and wisdom for the benefit of the community\, meant to assist in maximizing Dunya (this life) for our Deen (Faith). He gives wisdom to whomever He wills. Whoever is given wisdom has been given much good. But none pays heed except those with insight. (Quran). We are motivated by the words of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him); the most beloved people to Allah are those most beneficial to the people. (Hadith). We seek to achieve this aim through our in-person educational programs and publications. \nAlmighty Allah ﷻ directs us in Sūratul Aḥzāb\, “Verily\, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Messenger of Allah. You who believe invoke blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.” Our purpose of invoking blessings upon the Beloved ﷺ leads to proximity to Almighty Allah ﷻ by obeying this command while simultaneously fulfilling our rights upon the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. It is crystal clear how vital the invocation of Ṣalawāt is for the believer\, and it is a Mercy of Almighty Allah ﷻ for its rewards to be multitudinous. Abundant Ṣalawāt upon the Beloved ﷺ leads to loving him and knowing his beautiful qualities. By that virtue\, degrees of purity are realized. From the signs of the people of the Sunnah is sending Ṣalawāt upon him\, for the key to all goodness is Ṣalawāt upon the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. \n\n– More Sidi Tariq Samady: http://mcceastbay.org/tariq\n– More Tri-Valley and East Bay Mawlid celebrations: https://mcceastbay.org/mawlid\n– More about celebrating the Prophet (peace be upon him)’s day of birth: https://seekersguidance.org/answers/general-counsel/innovation-bida-and-celebrating-the-prophets-birthday-mawlid\n– More sessions about “The Kingdom of the Heart”: http://mcceastbay.org/kingdom URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/monthly-mawlid-2-2-3/2025-09-20/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Family Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Monthly-Mawlid.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250921T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250921T153000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250911T225841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250921T213741Z UID:10024029-1758463200-1758468600@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Building Stronger Muslim Marriages | Imam Faraz Malik DESCRIPTION:In just 90 minutes\, we help Muslim couples go from roommates to soulmates. This interactive seminar\, led by an Imam and a Licensed Professional Counselor\, is designed for Muslim singles\, engaged couples\, and married couples\, offering a blend of Islamic guidance and professional counseling principles. \n2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. | Sunday\, September 21\, 2025 | MCC Conference Room | Join in person or watch virtually at mcceastbay.org/live \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \nIn this workshop\, you will learn: \n\nIslamic principles of marriage and family life\nEmotional and communication skills for couples\nHealing from past relationship challenges\nPractical strategies for nurturing love and mercy.\n\n\nAbout the Speaker\n\n\nFaraz Malik is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)\, educator\, and religious scholar with a unique combination of expertise in mental health\, Islamic studies\, and classical Arabic education. He holds a BA in Mathematics\, a Master’s in Islamic Studies\, and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. Faraz also spent four years in Amman\, Jordan\, where he deepened his mastery of classical Arabic\, teaching at the esteemed Qasid Arabic Institute. He furthered his traditional Islamic education by completing the demanding five-year Alimiyyah program at Qalam Seminary. \nDriven by a passion for solving communal problems\, Faraz founded Arabic Daily\, the first Arabic language institute in the U.S. to offer high school credit courses nationwide\, accredited by Cognia and WASC. His deep involvement in education has given him a profound understanding of the unique challenges students and families face\, especially when it comes to academic support and curriculum development. \nThroughout his journey\, Faraz gained valuable skills and connections in digital marketing\, strategic planning\, and organizational growth\, making him a trusted advisor to non-profits and community organizations. His broad experience in launching and running companies has allowed him to assist organizations with their marketing\, development\, and operational strategies. \nThrough Malik Consulting\, Faraz brings together his counseling and business expertise to serve both individuals and organizations. Whether you are seeking personal guidance or a leader in need of organizational support\, Malik Consulting is equipped to help you navigate challenges and achieve your goals. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/building-stronger-muslim-marriages/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Building-Strong-Marriages.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250921T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250921T190000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250903T200137Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T201612Z UID:10023960-1758477600-1758481200@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Practicing Hope: Be a Lifeline for Young Women Experience Challenges of Life in Palestine | Areej Masoud DESCRIPTION:Join Areej Masoud\, founder of Khayari Women’s Leadership and Economic Empowerment Organization in Bethlehem\, as we learn about the work she has done to highlight the voices of Palestinians living in Palestine. She will speak about Palestinian women’s empowerment. \nSunday\, Sep. 21\, 2025 | 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. | MCC Conference Room | Join in-person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live \nSponsored by Asbury United Methodist Church\, Friends of Wadi Foquin\, Soul of My Soul Exhibit & MCC East Bay. \nReverend Michael Yoshii will be MCing this event. He has been advocating for Palestine from the Bay Area for decades \nOn Friday\, September 19\, local Bay Area groups supporting Khayari Foundation\, which is an organization located in Bethlehem that seeks to empower Palestinian women will also table at MCC during the three Jumu’ah prayer services: https://mcceastbay.org/event/friends-of-wadi-foquin-tables-mcc-jumuahs \nAreej will share her personal journey\, the mission of Khayari\, and how Palestinian women are shaping hope and resilience in the face of war and occupation. The ongoing conflict has created severe hardships for Palestinians. This event offers a chance to hear directly from someone working on the ground to empower women and build hope amid these challenges. \nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n\n– More talks & sermons about Palestine at MCC: https://mcceastbay.org/palestinian\n\nAreej Masoud is a Palestinian Christian woman from Bethlehem and the founder of Khayari Women’s Leadership and Economic Empowerment Organization. Born and raised under occupation\, she speaks from a place of urgency.  Now witnessing a genocide unfold in Gaza\, Palestinians struggle to keep hope alive in the West Bank. \nKhayari provides leadership training\, economic opportunities\, and spaces for women to heal and build supportive communities. The organization supports young Palestinian women by providing leadership opportunities\, economic empowerment\, and a platform for their voic \nJust months before the war began\, Christian Palestinian Activist Areej Masoud launched Khayari to create a space for young Palestinian women to lead\, heal\, and find direction in a world that often denies them the right to exist. The organization is Palestinian-led\, woman-founded\, and deeply rooted in lived reality. Areej’s work and ministry centers on women’s voices\, economic empowerment\, and reclaiming space amid destruction.  Her presence is not to dwell in the evil in the world\, but to engender courage and find hope for the future. \nPalestinian Christian Areej Masoud\, works in communications at Bethlehem Bible College. She will outline the everyday difficulties of life in the occupied West Bank. \nAreej is impassioned to speak up on behalf of her people and introduce the world to her reality\, often hidden from mainstream media! A reality where access to basic necessities such as healthcare\, education\, water\, shelter\, freedom of movement and economic security is greatly restricted. \n \n \n \n \nFriends of Wadi Foquin Tables @ MCC Jumu’ahs \n \n\n \nAreej Masoud is a Palestinian Christian woman from Bethlehem and the founder of Khayari Women’s Leadership and Economic Empowerment Organization. Born and raised under occupation\, she speaks from a place of urgency. Now witnessing a genocide unfold in Gaza\, Palestinians struggle to keep hope alive in the West Bank.Just months before the war began\, Areej launched Khayari to create a space for young Palestinian women to lead\, heal\, and find direction in a world that often denies them the right to exist. The organization is Palestinian-led\, woman-founded\, and deeply rooted in lived reality. Areej’s work centers on women’s voices\, economic empowerment\, and reclaiming space amid destruction. Her presence is not to dwell in the evil in the world\, but to engender courage and find hope for the future. URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/practicing-hope/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Practicing-Hope-09.21.25.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250922T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250922T123000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250403T191400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250505T225931Z UID:10023177-1758538800-1758544200@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Women’s Seerah Bookclub (in-person & virtual) | Ustadha Leila Fakira DESCRIPTION:  \n\n  \n\nJoin 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. This year\, we are reading from Our Lady Fatima al-Zahra (R.A.) by Muhammad Abduh Yamani. \n\n  \n\nEvery Monday\, in-person & virtual | 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | MCC | Women only | RSVP for the live registration link at https://mcceastbay.org/bookclub | RSVP is needed to join us virtually \n\n  \n\nEvent Details: \n\n  \n\nThe in-person & virtual discussion takes place every Monday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a break in Ramadan ’26. \n\n  \n\nPlease register online to receive the link to the WhatsApp thread where all communication and updates will be made. \n\n  \n\nBook Purchase: \n\n  \n\nIf you wish to follow along with the book\, please purchase the book. The book can be purchased here: \n\n  \n\n\nhttps://www.meccabooks.com/products/our-lady-fatima-al-zahra\nhttps://store.celebratemercy.com/products/our-lady-fatima-al-zahra?srsltid=AfmBOoolySfro5MbF50JY0y6f-0yyRMdaGwsDMa2DqstKJWBykrF1Tpa\nhttps://bookshop.rabata.org/search?q=pur+lady&options%5Bprefix%5D=last\n\n\n\nFor those local in the Bay Area: \n\nRumi Bookstore\nZaytuna Bookstore\n\nQuestions? bookclub@mcceastbay.org \n  \n\n  \n\nAbout the Book \n\n  \n\nThis book is about the life and virtues of the eminent lady Sayyidatunā Fāṭima al-Zahra ﵂. Through her\, with Sayyidunā ‘Alī ﵁\, the blessed lineage of her father\, the Messenger of God ﷺ\, was preserved. She resembled him in every way\, and of all people she was the dearest to his heart. She stood with him ﷺ and strove always to serve and aid him\, taking care of him after the death of her mother\, Sayyidatunā Khadīja ﵂. Fāṭima was brave\, strong\, forbearing\, dutiful\, gracious\, and protective. She was a loving mother and an inspiring example to her sons\, Imams Ḥasan and Ḥusayn ﵁. Fāṭima al-Zahrā ﵂ tells the life story of its subject in a vivid\, straightforward manner\, linking it to the history of Islam from the early times of tribulation to the establishment of the Dīn and the Community based in al-Madīna. Its style and approach are very suitable for children\, as well as for older readers. The author\, Dr Muhammad Abduh Yamani (d.1431/2010)\, who served for several years as Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Information\, was a distinguished educationalist\, author and businessman\, notable also for his piety and philanthropy. \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  \n\n  URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/womens-seerah-bookclub-25/2025-09-22/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States CATEGORIES:Sisters Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Monday.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250924T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250924T200000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250508T172507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T154346Z UID:10024038-1758738600-1758744000@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Secrets of Divine Love – Men’s Book Club DESCRIPTION:Join us for a weekly book club and discussion group as we collectively strive to mindfully open our hearts to Allah’s love for us and our love for Allah. We will read and reflect on A. Helwa’s internationally acclaimed book\, Secrets of Divine Love: A Spiritual Journey into the Heart of Islam (Studying Qur’an & Hadith). \nEach session will cover one chapter\, including group discussions\, reflections\, and selected exercises from the book. \nThe first session will be abridged\, focusing on the Introduction and the “Reading with an Open Heart” preface. It will also set the stage for the remainder of the series for those planning to attend most or all sessions. \nWhile we encourage consistent attendance for the benefit of shared reflection and continuity\, each session is self-contained\, and participants are welcome to drop in even if they cannot commit to every week. Sidi Mohammed Kaddoura facilitates this group. \nStarts May 14 | Wednesdays | 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Conference Room | In-person only \nClass Schedule (Download discussion guide)\n\nIntroduction & Reading with an Open Heart\n    May 14\, 2025\nChapter 1 – Allah\n    May 21\, 2025\nChapter 2 – Humanity\n    May 28\, 2025\nChapter 3 – Qur’an\n    June 4\, 2025\nChapter 4 – Islam / Iman / Ihsan\n    June 11\, 2025\nChapter 5 – Tawba\n    June 18\, 2025\nChapter 6 – Shahadah\n    June 25\, 2025\nChapter 7 – Salat\n    July 2\, 2025\nChapter 8 – Zakat\n    July 9\, 2025\nChapter 9 – Ramadan\n    July 16\, 2025\nChapter 10 – Hajj\n    July 23\, 2025\nChapter 11 – Death\n    July 30\, 2025\nChapter 12 – Heaven and Hell\n    August 6\, 2025\nConclusion\n    August 13\, 2025\n\nDisclaimer\nThis book club is intended to stimulate thought and reflection\, not to teach deen. It is not a fiqh or aqidah class. The book contains various concepts and references that may not align with traditional Islamic scholarship. \nIf you have any questions about what scholars say regarding a topic discussed in the book or during the sessions\, we strongly recommend consulting a scholar you know and trust. You may also forward your question to the organizers so we can seek guidance from a qualified scholar and share it with the group. \nWe approach the book’s abstract ideas as thought experiments and the exercises as opportunities for spiritual reflection\, not as a substitute for traditional Islamic scholarship. \nDiscussion Group Guidelines\n\nEveryone has something to say; everyone has something to learn.\nShy participants are encouraged to contribute.\nTalkative participants are encouraged to listen more.\nConfidentiality is essential.\nDo not share other participants’ reflections outside the group. It’s okay to say\, “someone in my book club made me think about…” but not “so-and-so said…”\nGive 70 excuses.\nAssume good intentions. If disagreements arise\, remember our shared goal is growth. We leave differences in the room and continue with brotherhood outside of it.\nMaintain emotional awareness.\nThe topics we discuss may evoke strong emotions. All participants are expected to remain calm\, respectful\, and emotionally intelligent. Please avoid getting carried away in conversation. Proper etiquette is required at all times.\n\nBook Purchase\nPlease purchase the book in advance if you want to follow along. Available at:\nhttps://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Divine-Love-Spiritual-Journey/dp/1734231203\nAudiobook voiced by the author also available. \nAbout the Book\nSecrets of Divine Love was written for the longing heart\, searching for meaning\, hope\, or healing. It is for anyone who has felt distant from God or overwhelmed by their imperfections. \nThis book serves as a guide back to divine peace and surrender. Through the practices and pillars of Islam\, A. Helwa invites readers to unlock their spiritual potential and deepen their relationship with Allah. Blending Qur’an verses\, Hadith\, poetry\, psychology\, science\, and mystical stories\, the book offers a heart-based yet intellectually grounded approach to spiritual growth. \n\nAuthor: A. Helwa\nPaperback: 385 pages\nBinding: Softcover\nPublisher: Naulit Publishing House\n\nAbout the Author\nHelwa believes the Divine deeply loves every person. Her popular blog\, @quranquotesdaily\, began as a personal effort during her Master of Divinity studies and has grown to inspire hundreds of thousands. With over 15 years of experience in Islamic spirituality and writing\, she combines traditional sources and personal insight to help readers connect to Divine love in everyday life.\nQuestions? events@mcceastbay.org \n \n  URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/mens-book-club/2025-09-24/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Mens-Book-Club.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Muslim Community Center - East Bay":MAILTO:events@mcceastbay.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250925T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250925T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T134918 CREATED:20250731T235037Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250731T235038Z UID:10023894-1758794400-1758798000@mcceastbay.org SUMMARY:Mommy and Me Fall '25 Session | MCC's Mommy & Me Program DESCRIPTION:In this eight-week session\, our toddlers and pre-schoolers (ages 1-5) will develop love for Islam\, Allah (swt)\, and RasulAllah (saw) through book reading\, sing-alongs\, Parachute Time\, activities\, and more! \nThursdays: 08/14\, 08/21\, 08/28\, 09/04\, 09/11\, 09/18\, 09/25\, 10/02\, and Saturday\, 09/06 | 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Conference Room | $120 for all 8 sessions\, or $75 for 5 sessions\, or $20 per session | Register at mcceastbay.org/happyhearts \nThese Mommy & Me sessions are designed for girls and boys ages one to four who are accompanied by a female guardian. Moms\, grandmothers\, and so on are welcome. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other moms and caretakers in the MCC community. \nOur Mommy and Me sessions begin with dua and a salaam/greeting song and end with the Fi-Amanillah song and kid-favorite parachute time. \nQuestions? Happy Hearts Playgroup Facilitator Sr. Khadija at mommyandme@mcceastbay.org \nMCC 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 URL:https://mcceastbay.org/event/mommy-and-me-fall-25/2025-09-25/ LOCATION:MCC East Bay\, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300\, Pleasanton\, CA\, 94588\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcceastbay.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Happy-Hearts-Fall.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR