Secrets of Divine Love Book Club
2023-03-04 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Starting Saturday, August 20th, MCC will be hosting a Secrets of Divine Love book club/discussion group every other Saturday evening. Join us as we collectively strive toward mindfully opening our hearts to Allah’s love for us and our love for Allah. Each chapter contains its own exercises that will serve as the focal point for our discussions and each chapter stands alone so you can attend any session that is convenient for you without the need to ‘catch up’.
The first session will be abridged and focus simply on the Introduction, the Reading with an Open Heart preface and set the stage for future discussions for those who hope to attend all or most of the sessions and follow the progression.
This book club will be held every other week for a Saturday Book Club discussing the internationally acclaimed book by A. Helwa, Secrets of Divine Love. Each session will cover a chapter and will include group discussions, reflections, and exercises from the book. The discussion takes place every Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and in Summer ’22 runs from Saturday, August 20 2022 to Saturday, March 4, 2023.
RSVP for the registration at https://mcceastbay.org/divine-love-bookclub. RSVP is requested.
Saturdays | August 20 to March 4 | Conference Room | In-person only.
Disclaimer
This book club is intended to stimulate thought and reflection, not teach deen. It is NOT a fiqh or aqidah class. The book contains various references and concepts that do not align with traditional Islamic scholarship on those subjects. If any participant has any questions about what scholars say about any of the concepts mentioned in the book or discussed in the book club meetings, we strongly recommend consulting a scholar they know and trust and/or forwarding those questions to the organizers of the book club so that we can get guidance from a scholar and share that guidance with the group.
We intended to approach the abstract ideas found in this book as thought experiments and the exercises as cardio for the spiritual heart. Nothing in the book or book club meetings should be viewed as replacing, undermining, or contradicting traditional Islamic scholarship in any way.
Discussion Group Guidelines

-Everyone has something to say, everyone has something to learn

-Shy people encouraged to contribute
-Talkative people encouraged to restrain themselves

-Confidentiality

-Do not share people’s reflections outside of the group. Can say stuff like “somebody in my book club made me think (this or that) about (this or that)”, but not “(so and so) said …”

-70 excuses

-Give your sisters/brothers every benefit of the doubt as far as their intention with whatever they say, particularly what you may disagree with

-‘Dinner after’

-If you have differences of opinion during the discussion, remember the intention is beneficial learning that we are all working together to achieve. So you leave those differences of opinion at the door when we’re done and still be ready to go to dinner after with people you may have disagreed with (see 70 excuses rule)

-Be chill

-Emotional subject matter requires conscious intention to remain emotionally intelligent and not let ourselves get carried away. Particularly the brothers, don’t get aggressive or excited, appropriate adab with each other and with our sisters is required

Class Schedule:

-Intro

-Aug 20, 2022

-Chapter 1 – Allah

-Sep 3, 2022

Chapter 2 – Humanity

-Sep 17, 2022

-Chapter 3 – Qur’an

-Oct 1, 2022

-Chapter 4 – Islam/Iman/Ihsan

-Oct 15, 2022

-Chapter 5 – Tawba

-Oct 29, 2022

-Chapter 6 – Shahadah

-Nov 12, 2022

-Chapter 7 – Salat

-Dec 3, 2022

-Chapter 8 – Zakat

-Dec 17, 2022

-Chapter 9 – Ramadan

-Jan 7, 2023

-Chapter 10 – Hajj

-Jan 21, 2023

-Chapter 11 – Death

-Feb 4, 2023

-Chapter 12 – Heaven and Hell

-Feb 18, 2023

-Conclusion

-Mar 4, 2023

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

–https://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Divine-Love-Spiritual-Journey/dp/1734231203

*Audiobook voiced by author available
About the Book

Secrets of Divine Love was written for the longing heart, for the one who is searching for something they have not been able to find. For the one who sometimes spirals into hopelessness and cannot help but feel too imperfect for a perfect God to love. This book is for the one who is at the edge of their faith, who has experienced religion as a harsh winter instead of the life-bearing spring it was sent to be by God.
Secrets of Divine Love serves as a compass and guiding light that returns you to the source of divine peace and surrender. Through the practices and pillars of Islam, you will learn how to unlock your spiritual potential and unveil your divine purpose. A. Helwa uses a rational, yet heart-based approach towards the Qur’an that not only enlightens the mind, but inspires the soul towards deeper intimacy with Allah. By weaving together dozens of inspiring mystical stories, Qur’an verses, Hadith, poetry, psychology, and science, the author breaks down Islam in a way that is both digestible and inspiring for millennial Muslims.
Author: A. Helwa
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 385 pages
Binding: Softcover
Publisher: Naulit Publishing House
About the Author
A. Helwa believes that every single person on Earth is deeply loved by the Divine. She is a writer who has inspired hundreds of thousands of readers through her passionate, poetic, and love-based approach to spirituality. Her popular blog @quranquotesdaily, was established while obtaining her Masters in Divinity, as a means of helping others overcome personal and spiritual struggles on their journey of experiencing divine love. With over 15 years of experience writing and speaking on Islam and spiritual development, A. Helwa draws from her personal experiences and traditional sources to help her readers access ‘Divine love in everyday life.’

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

#TeamFajr Monthly Sunday Breakfast
2023-03-05 05:45 - 06:45
“If people knew the reward in praying Fajr & Isha in a congregation, they would go to the Masjid even if they had to crawl” [Bukhari & Muslim]
Join Qari Amar Bellaha on the first Sunday of each month. Pray the pre-dawn prayer in congregation followed by recitations of Surah Yaseen and Al-Wird Al-Latif (booklets provided) in unison and following sunup, Salat al-Ishraq prayer in congregation. Our monthly Fajr gathering is also live streamed at mcceastbay.org/live
Following the post-sunrise prayer, Qari Amar and anyone else who wishes to accompany him will visit Five Pillars Islamic Cemetery in Livermore (weather permitting).
MCC provides tea, coffee, orange juice & muffins.
Fall & Winter 2022 dates and Fajr times:

Sunday, October 2 | Fajr Iqamah at 6:30 a.m.
Sunday, November 6 | Fajr Iqamah at 6 a.m.
Sunday, December 4 | Fajr Iqamah at 6:30 a.m.
Sunday, January 1, 2023 | Fajr Iqamah at 6:30 a.m.
Sunday, February 5, 2023 | Fajr Iqamah at 6:15 a.m.
Sunday, March 5, 2023 (last Fajr gathering before Ramadan) | Fajr Iqamah at 5:45 a.m.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

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

#TeamFajr Bi-Weekly Sunday Breakfast
2023-03-05 05:45 - 06:45

MCC Community's Monthly Khatem-e-Quran
2023-03-05 05:45 - 06:45
“The most beloved deeds to Allah (SWT) are those which are done consistently, even if they are little.” – Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Please join your MCC community in a monthly communal completion of the book of Allah.
Each month, congregation members complete one Juz of the Holy Qur’an. On the first Wednesday the following month, we meet at 7:30 p.m. for a Zikr, Qur’an Khatam dua, and collective community dua, followed by a community potluck (bring a dish to share!).
This community dua is led by Qari Amar Bellaha and Ustadh Amu Tarif. This program is also streamed virtually at https://mcceastbay.org/live.
Please finish your Juz by the first Wednesday of each month. Sign up for Juz at mcceastbay.org/juz
Fall ’22 & Winter ’23 Wednesday Monthly Du’as with Qari Amar and Ustadh Amu Tarif:

– October 5, 2022
– November 2, 2022
– December 7, 2022
– January 4, 2023
– February 1. 2023
– March 1, 2023

Encourage your family members and friends from across the globe to participate in this noble endeavor.

– More Qari Amar: https://mcceastbay.org/amar
– More Ustadh Amu Tarif: https://mcceastbay.org/tarif

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
The benefits and virtues of reciting the Holy Qur’an and sending Salawat upon Rasulullah (S) are numerous. 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 and Salawat individually, there is strength in our numbers. Join your MCC community in our goal of collectively completing a completing Qur’an khatam.

#TeamFajr Monthly Sunday Breakfast & Qur'an Khatam
2023-03-05 05:45 - 06:45
“If people knew the reward in praying Fajr & Isha in a congregation, they would go to the Masjid even if they had to crawl” [Bukhari & Muslim]
Join Qari Amar Bellaha & Ustadh Amu Tarif on the first Sunday of each month. Pray the pre-dawn prayer in congregation followed by recitations of Surah Yaseen and Al-Wird Al-Latif (booklets provided) in unison and following sunup, Salat al-Ishraq prayer in congregation. Then join your MCC community in a monthly communal completion of the book of Allah.
Each month, congregation members complete one Juz of the Holy Qur’an. On the first Sunday of each month, we meet after Fajr for a Zikr, Qur’an Khatam dua, and collective community dua, followed by a community potluck (bring a dish to share!). MCC provides tea, coffee, orange juice & muffins.
This community dua is led by Qari Amar Bellaha and Ustadh Amu Tarif. This program is also streamed virtually at https://mcceastbay.org/live.
Please finish your Juz by the first Sunday of each month. Sign up for Juz at mcceastbay.org/juz
The benefits and virtues of reciting the Holy Qur’an and sending Salawat upon Rasulullah (S) are numerous. 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 and Salawat individually, there is strength in our numbers. Join your MCC community in our goal of collectively completing a completing Qur’an khatam.
Winter 2023 dates and Fajr times:

Sunday, March 5, 2023 (last Fajr gathering before Ramadan) | Fajr Iqamah at 5:45 a.m.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

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

Nisf-e-Shabaan | Shaykh Talal Ahdab
2023-03-06 20:30 - 22:00
Join Shaykh Talal Ahdab for a faith-affirming evening to learn lessons from one of the five blessed nights when duas are accepted, according to Imam Nawawi. We also highly encourage you to fast on that day and join us for a community Iftar in the evening. Join us in this annual commemoration of laylatul-bara’ah (the Night of Innocence). 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. | Monday, March 6 | MCC Conference Room | Join in-person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live | RSVP for Iftar here.

Qari Amar will lead the evening with the recitation of Surah Al-Yaseen after Maghrib. Then Shaykh Talal will deliver a talk on the blessed night starting 8:30 p.m.

– Past talks commemorating Nisf Sha’ban: https://mcceastbay.org/shaban

– More Shaykh Talal: https://mcceastbay.org/talal

Shaykh Talal Ahdab

Talal Ahdab serves on the MA faculty at Zaytuna College. He pursued a rigorous and structured classical curriculum with Islamic authorities, focusing on Islamic theology, epistemology, ontology, language, jurisprudence, and legal theory. Over the last twenty years, he has taught the Islamic disciplines to senior students and professors of Islamic studies. His research interests include exploring how modern challenges can be addressed through Islam’s rich tradition of knowledge and scholarship. Shaykh Talal is fluent in Arabic. Shaykh Talal joined the Zaytuna College faculty in the Fall of 2017.

About Nisf Sha’banThe month of Shaban is the eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The fifteenth night of this month is known as laylatul-bara’ah (the Night of Innocence) or laylat un-nisf min Shaban (the Middle Night of Shaban or shab-e-barat).

It has been narrated that the Messenger of Allah, blessings and peace be upon him, said: “There are five nights on which dua is not rejected: the first night of Rajab, the fifteenth night of Sha‘ban, Thursday night, the night before Eid al Fitr and the night before Eid al Nahr (al Adha).” (al Suyuti)

Locally, for those who follow moonsighting, the 15th night of Shaban is Sunday night (March 28). This is a special night for making dua and other acts of worship. It is also recommended to fast on the 15th day of Shaban (Monday, March 29).

For more information, see the following links:

Merits of Sha’ban

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Allah looks at His creation in the night of mid-Sha’ban, and He forgives all His creation except for a mushrik (idolater) or a mushahin (one bent on hatred).”

It is the night our provision for the coming year is determined and a night of forgiveness. Therefore, doing special dhikr prayers at night and asking for forgiveness is recommended. It is also recommended to fast on the 15th of Shaban (Tuesday, March 7).

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

The Forty Hadith Qudsi | Ustadha Nihad Hemmoudeh
2023-03-07 13:30 - 14:15
Ustadha Nihad Hemmoudeh facilitates a 45-minute live Zoom session for sisters (posted the following day publicly on MCC’s YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram) about the Forty Hadith Qudsi, the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as revealed to him by the Almighty Allah. 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. PST | Tuesdays | 12 consecutive weeks from January 3 to March 21 | No pre-registration needed | Join live each week at 1:30 p.m. on Zoom at https://mcceastbay.org/hadith

Ustadha Nihad will be using the book “Forty Hadith Qudsi” by Shaykh Muhammad Mitwalli ash-Sha’rawi.

– Watch past sessions at https://mcceastbay.org/qudsi

More Ustadha Nihad:

– Ustadha’s Nihad’s “Pearls of Islam: The Wives of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)” series: https://mcceastbay.org/pearls-series

– Ustadha Nihad’s Surah al-Kahf series: https://mcceastbay.org/kahf

– Ustadha Nihad’s Juz Amma series: https://mcceastbay.org/quran-tafseer

– Hafidha Nihad’s Sahaba (Companions) Series Sessions: https://mcceastbay.org/companions-series

– Ust. Nohad’s Al-Nawawi Hadith Series: https://mcceastbay.org/nawawi

– More Ustadha Nihad: https://mcceastbay.org/nihad

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Weekly Women’s Seerah Bookclub
2023-03-07 18:30 - 20:00
Join our weekly sisters’ virtual only 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 fall, we are reading “The Prophetic Narrative” by Samira al-Zayid.

RSVP for the live registration link below at https://mcceastbay.org/bookclub. RSVP is needed to join us virtually.

**Sessions changed to online only for the remaining classes.

Event Details:

The discussion takes place every Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a break in Ramadan ’23. The sessions are now only virtual sessions (no in-person component).

Please register online to receive the link to the Whatsapp thread where all communication and updates will be made.

Book Purchase:

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

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

Questions? bookclub@mcceastbay.org

About the Book

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

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

Author: Samira al-ZayidTranslators: Susan Imady, Tamara Gray, & Randa MardiniBinding: SoftcoverPages: Vol 1, 570; Vol 2, 558Publisher: Daybreak Press

Questions? bookclub@mcceastbay.org

Nisf-e-Shaban | Shaykh Talal Ahdab
2023-03-07 20:30 - 22:00
Join Shaykh Talal Ahdab for a faith-affirming evening to learn lessons from one of the five blessed nights when duas are accepted, according to Imam Nawawi. We also highly encourage you to fast on Wednesday, March 8. Join us in this annual commemoration of laylatul-bara’ah (the Night of Innocence).

Qari Amar will be leading the evening with the recitation of Surah Al-Yaseen after Maghrib. Then Shaykh Talal will deliver a talk on the blessed night starting 8:30 p.m.

We also highly encourage you to fast that day. Join us for a community Iftar on Tuesday, March 7. RSVP for Iftar here.

8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. | Tuesday, March 7 | MCC Conference Room | Join in-person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live

-Past talks commemorating Nisf Sha’ban: https://mcceastbay.org/shaban-More Shaykh Talal: https://mcceastbay.org/talal

Shaykh Talal Ahdab

Talal Ahdab serves on the MA faculty at Zaytuna College. He pursued a rigorous and structured classical curriculum with Islamic authorities, focusing on Islamic theology, epistemology, ontology, language, jurisprudence, and legal theory. Over the last twenty years, he has taught the Islamic disciplines to senior students and professors of Islamic studies. His research interests include exploring how modern challenges can be addressed through Islam’s rich tradition of knowledge and scholarship. Shaykh Talal is fluent in Arabic. Shaykh Talal joined the Zaytuna College faculty in Fall of 2017.

About Nisf Sha’banThe month of Shaban is the eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The fifteenth night of this month is known as laylatul-bara’ah (the Night of Innocence) or laylat un-nisf min Shaban (the Middle Night of Shaban or shab-e-barat).

It has been narrated that the Messenger of Allah, blessings and peace be upon him, said: “There are five nights on which dua is not rejected: the first night of Rajab, the fifteenth night of Sha‘ban, Thursday night, the night before Eid al Fitr and the night before Eid al Nahr (al Adha).” (al Suyuti)

Locally, for those who follow moonsighting, the 15th night of Shaban is Sunday night (March 28). This is a special night for making dua and other acts of worship. It is also recommended to fast on the 15th day of Shaban (Monday, March 29).

For more information, see the following links:

Merits of Sha’ban

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Allah looks at His creation in the night of mid-Sha’ban, and He forgives all His creation except for a mushrik (idolater) or a mushahin (one bent on hatred).”

It is the night when our provision for the coming year is determined and a night of forgiveness. Therefore, it is recommended to do special dhikr, and prayers at night, as well as to ask for forgiveness. It is also recommended to fast on the 15th of Shaban (Tuesday, March 7).

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Interfaith Chat | Ust. Hosai Mojaddidi & Rev. Steve Wilde
2023-03-08 17:00 - 18:00
Interfaith Interconnect and MCC co-host a religious chat with Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi, representing MCC East Bay, and Rev. Steve Wilde, representing First Presbyterian Church in Livermore, on how each faith adapts itself to changing times.

5 p.m. to 6 p.m. | Wednesday, March 8 | Virtual chat | mcceastbay.org/interfaith-chat

Join on Zoom at mcceastbay.org/interfaith-chatZoom room will open at 4:45 p.m. Optional breakout discussion groups will be from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

– More Sister Hosai: https://mcceastbay.org/hosai

– More MCC interfaith events: https://mcceastbay.org/interfaith

– MCC’s interfaith advocacy efforts: https://mcceastbay.org/interfaith-ethos

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Presentations from 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. and followed by an optional break-out group discussion from 6 p.m. – 6:30 p.m..

The mission of Interfaith Interconnect is to enrich, inform and educate ourselves and others about the great diversity of faiths and cultures in our Valley. The interfaith umbrella group serves the Tri-Valley in the Bay Area.

– More Interfaith Interconnect recordings: https://mcceastbay.org/interfaith-interconnect– Website: https://interfaithinterconnect.weebly.com/– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InterfaithInterconnect

The MCC East Bay and the Islamic Center of Livermore are proud congregation members of the Interfaith Interconnect of the Tri-Valley.

– More MCC interfaith events: https://mcceastbay.org/interfaith– Sign up for MCC’s periodic community supporter updates: https://mcceastbay.org/community-supporters– MCC’s interfaith community advocacy efforts: https://mcceastbay.org/interfaith-ethos

The Seven Obstacles on the Path to God Series | Sidi Shahyrar Abbasi
2023-03-08 19:15 - 20:15
Every Muslim is on a journey to Allah. As you travel to Allah, you will inadvertently face obstacles on your path and, many times, not know how to overcome them.

Join us for a new virtual weekly class with Sidi Shahryar Abbasi where we will discuss the 7 obstacles a believer faces on the Path to Allah, along with strategies for navigating these hurdles.

Imam Al Ghazali beautifully discusses these 7 Obstacles in his famous book, Minhaj Al Abideen, which is the core text for our class.

7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. | Wednesdays | Dec. 14 to Ramadan ’23 | Watch at https://mcceastbay.org/live

Hosted at Lighthouse Mosque. Streamed only on MCC media channels. Watch past sessions at https://mcceastbay.org/obstacles

– More Sidi Shahryar: https://mcceastbay.org/shahryar

– Sidi Shahryar’s “Seven Obstacles on the Path to God” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/obstacles

– Sidi Shahryar’s “Practical Spirituality Series”: https://mcceastbay.org/practical

– Sidi Shahryar’s “Real Talk Series”: https://mcceastbay.org/real-talk

– Sidi Shahryar’s “Traits of the Righteous” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/hallmark

– Sidi Shahryar’s “Deceptive Desires” Series: https://mcceastbay.org/desires

About the SpeakerShahryar graduated from the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business and served as the External Affairs Vice President of UC Berkeley’s student government. He is an experienced speaker, mentor, and coach. Send him questions at: ask.abu.taha@gmail.com and learn more about him at https://www.tiktok.com/@islamic_spirituality

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Al-Misbaah Tables @ MCC Jumu’ahs
2023-03-10 12:30 - 14:00
Al-Misbaah has been at the forefront of the refugee crisis. Helping thousands of needy families with food, household, hygiene, and other essential needs. As a privately funded non-profit, most of their funds are by donations.

Please support them here.

Two Jumu’ah Services @ MCC
2023-03-10 12:30 - 14:00
For our Jumu’ah services on Friday, March 10, masks are optional to attend any MCC service, and no RSVP is necessary:

12:30 p.m. – 12:50 p.m.

– Brother Abdul Baseer delivers this sermon.

– No social distancing option in Prayer Hall (shoulder-to-shoulder). Social distance worship is available for women in Banquet Hall & men in Conference Room.

1:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.

– Sidi Masoud Qazen delivers this sermon.

– No social distancing option in Prayer Hall (shoulder-to-shoulder). Social distance worship is available for women in Banquet Hall & men in Conference Room.

Please attend at 12:30 p.m. to avoid heavier second-service congestion whenever possible. Masks are optional.

The third Jumu’ah will resume in March ’23: https://mcceastbay.org/event/new-jumuah-times-winter-schedule/

Jumu’ah parking for two services is in the MCC and the neighboring HP lot. The aerial map at https://mcceastbay.org/hp

– Virtually watch these two sermons from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live

More Brother Baseer: https://mcceastbay.org/mohammed

More Sidi Masoud: https://mcceastbay.org/masoud

Mohammed Abdul Baseer is an engineer and a former president of Islamic Society of East Bay (ISEB) in Fremont. He has been active in the Bay Area Muslim community for since the early 1990s. Br. Baseer and his family live in Fremont.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.orgThe Alameda County Health Department reports COVID-19 cases are still happening. We remain indoors for the five daily prayers and two Jumu’ah services as long as health officials deem it safe. All the Jumu’ah prayers are indoors.

Zara Initiative Tables @ MCC Jumu'ahs
2023-03-10 12:30 - 14:30
Zara Initiative is a U.S based nonprofit charity working in some of the poorest countries in the world. They are collecting for Ramadan Food Packs. You can feed an entire family for the whole month of Ramadan with just one food pack.

Dr. Rania Awaad's Weekly Friday Evening Halaqa
2023-03-10 19:00 - 21:00
Ustadha Dr. Rania Awaad holds a weekly Friday evening women’s gathering about navigating contemporary issues.
7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Every Friday from October 14, 2022 to March 17, 2023 | MCC Conference Room | Free; no registration or RSVP required to attend in person | To join virtually, register at https://mcceastbay.org/zoom

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

Free babysitting is provided in Room 16. Facility map: https://mcceastbay.org/facility-map
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
This halaqa is hosted parallel to our girl’s program in partnership with Rahmah Foundation.
Ustadha Rania AwaadRaised in the U.S., Ustadha Rania Awaad 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 Ijaazah (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, and is on the faculty of Zaytuna College, where she teaches courses in Shafi’i fiqh, women’s issues in fiqh and has helped develop and co-direct the Tajweed and Hifz program.
Ustadha Rania is also a medical doctor with a specialty in Psychiatry. She completed her Psychiatric residency and fellowship training at Stanford University, where she is currently on the faculty as a Clinical Instructor in the Stanford Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences department. Her medical interests include addressing mental health care concerns in the Muslim community- particularly that of Muslim women and girls. She has been awarded grants from the NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) to research this topic and has presented her findings at several medical conferences. Other ongoing endeavors include compiling manuscripts addressing female-related mental health and medical issues from a fiqh-oriented perspective. She currently serves as the Director of the Rahmah Foundation, a non-profit organization that teaches Muslim women and girls traditional Islamic knowledge. In this capacity, she also heads the Murbbiyah Mentoring Program, which trains young women to teach and mentor Muslim girls and teens. Ustadha Rania is both a wife and a mother; she has been counseling and teaching women classes on Tajwid, Shafi’i Fiqh, Ihsan, marriage, and raising children since 1999.
Learn more about Dr. Rania and her work at http://med.stanford.edu/psychiatry/research/MuslimMHLab.html
Every Friday evening, the MCC bustles with activity. MCC hosts four halaqas to increase God-consciousness for youth, women, and men.
From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., join Dr. Rania Awaad‘s women’s gathering about navigating contemporary issues. 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.
Friday evening sessions in Fall 2022 and Winter 2023:

– October 14
– October 21
– October 28
– November 5
– November 11
– November 18
– November 25 (no session)
– December 2
– December 9
– December 16
– December 23 (no session)
– December 30 (no session)
– January 6, 2023
– January 13, 2023
– January 20, 2023
– January 27, 2023
– February 3, 2023
– February 10, 2023
– February 17, 2023
– February 24, 2023
– March 3, 2023
– March 10, 2023
– March 17, 2023 (last session before Ramadan 2023)

Boys Friday Night Halaqa for High Schoolers (Ages 14-18) | Hafiz Zaid Khanani
2023-03-10 19:00 - 21:00
Join MCC Youth Leader Hafiz Zaid Khanani‘s 16-week Friday evening halaqa for teen high school boys from 9th through 12th grade.

These sessions aim to craft our next generation of confident and faithful Muslim men. This will be the only offered for boys on Friday nights in 2022. Younger-age boy’s halaqas planned for January 2023. These halaqas are for teens ages 14-18 only. No younger boys. Capped at 30 teens. Once full, please join the waitlist.

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Fridays | November 11 to March 17 (Ramadan ’23) ($100 from January 11 to March 17) | Register at HTTP://mcceastbay.org/boys

The 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

To make an appointment for parents or youth to meet with MCC’s Youth leaders:

– Maryam Awwal: http://calendly.com/mcc-maryam

– Hafiz Zaid Khanani: http://calendly.com/mcc-zaid

Friday evening sessions in Fall 2022 and Winter 2023:

– November 11 (free preview session; no registration required)

– November 18 (registration required to join from this session onwards)

– November 25 (no session)

– December 2

– December 9

– December 16

– December 23 (no session)

– December 30 (no session)

– January 6, 2023 (no session)

– January 13, 2023

– January 20, 2023

– January 27, 2023

– February 3, 2023

– February 10, 2023

– February 17, 2023

– February 24, 2023

– March 3, 2023

– March 10, 2023

– March 17, 2023 (last session before Ramadan 2023)

Zaid Khanani is a Marriage and Family Therapy trainee with the City of Fremont, Youth and Family Services. He graduated from Zaytuna College and completed his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the Wright Institute. Hafiz Zaid continues his formal Islamic Studies with local teachers and scholars overseas. He is a former Islamic Studies teacher at Northstar Islamic School and teaches numerous online classes.

Ilm Classes for Middle & High Schoolers (Boys & Girls) | Sr. Maryam Awwal & Hafiz Zaid Khanani
2023-03-11 10:00 - 11:15
Join MCC Youth Leaders, Sr. Maryam Awwal and Hafiz Zaid Khanani, for 9 weeks Saturday Ilm classes offered for both middle & high school girls and boys ( 6th through 12th grades). The classes will cover the Creed of Imam al-Tahawi.

These sessions aim to craft our next generation of confident and faithful Muslim women and men. These classes are for girls & boys ages 11-18 only. Capped at 30. Once full, please join the waitlist.

10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. | Saturdays | January 21 to March 18 (Ramadan ’23) | $120 per child | Register at HTTP://mcceastbay.org/ilm-classes

The 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

Saturday morning sessions in 2023:

– January 21, 2023

– January 28, 2023

– February 4, 2023

– February 11, 2023

– February 18, 2023

– February 25, 2023

– March 4, 2023

– March 11, 2023

– March 18, 2023 (last session before Ramadan 2023)

Knowing the Self Weekend Workshop | Mohammed Isaaq
2023-03-11 10:00 - 16:00
Join Sidi Mohamad Isaaq’s US tour to gain an in-depth understanding of yourself using traditional Islamic wisdoms. This two-day workshop will teach you about having a presence and a deeper connection with yourself and others.

We will learn about holistic healing practices and techniques rooted in the rich wisdom of our traditions.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. | Saturday & Sunday, March 11-12 | MCC Conference Room | $160.00/person (both days, includes meals) | Register at mcceastbay.org/wisdoms

This event will not be recorded or live-streamed (no virtual component). Attend in person only.

Register by Saturday, February 11, for a $140.00 early-bird discount.This comprehensive two-day workshop will look at the temperaments from the perspective of our psychological nature and provide answers as to why we behave, feel, and react the way we do. We can make sense of our feelings, habits, thought processes, and even our moral positions. Learn more about the tour at: https://knowingtheself.com/.

Discovering your secondary temperament

We will also look at each of the eight different profiles in greater depth, comparing the differences between each subtype so you can be sure of your temperament.

Character development II

Using the four virtues identified by Plato and further explored by Al Ghazali, we see how we can take the wisdom of these ancient greats and turn it into action plans for our personal development.

Saturday, March 11, 2023

9:45 – Doors Open10:00 – Orientation10:10 – Intentions/Workshop12:00 – Break1:00 -2:00 – Lunch Break2:30 – Break3:00 – Q&A4:00 – End of Day

Sunday, March 12, 2023

2 p.m. – Doors Open2:30 – Introduction2:45 – Workshop4:00 – 5:00 – Tea Break6:00 – Lecture7:30 – Break8:00 – Q&A8:30 – End of Program

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

About the KNOWING YOURSELF ProgramPart 1

Do you find yourself reverting to the same thoughts, feelings, and practices even though you thought you had yourself figured out?

Why do some of us see the glass as half full and others as half empty?

Why do some of us always appear negative and others appear favorable?

Why are some chronically late and others always on time?

There are reasons why each of us reacts the way we do, and it is often difficult to pinpoint why some of us think, feel and act the way we do. Many of the answers to these questions can be found in our Temperaments. This is an age-old study first discovered around 2500 years ago and recognized by the likes of Hippocrates, Ibn Sina, St Thomas Aquinas, and many others; sadly, it is now a science all but forgotten.

Part 2

The second installment covers the following areas.

Discovering your secondary temperament.

Heavily in demand, we will look at each of the eight different profiles in greater depth, comparing the differences between each subtype so you can be sure of your temperament.

Character development II.

Using the four virtues identified by Plato and further explored by Al Ghazzali, we see how we can take the wisdom of these ancient greats and turn it into action plans for our personal development.

About the Instructor:Mohammed Isaaq is the founder and instructor of the Knowing Yourself program. He is a self-development specialist and a teacher.Mohammed was born and raised in Birmingham, UK. Following his postgraduate studies in education, he has had the privilege of pursuing his studies under various teachers in the UK and abroad, including Morocco, Jordan, and Yemen.He is currently a student of Islamic Psychology at Cambridge Muslim College.Upon his return to the UK in 2017, he has been teaching Islamic medicine, theology, and Arabic alongside other community projects. He has now delivered programs in over 40 countries to a worldwide audience of over 30,000 participants!

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

References:

https://fb.me/e/28kOLlua9﻿

http://www.knowingtheself.com/

https://mcceastbay.org/event/knowing-the-self/

Saturday Morning Middle School Boys Halaqa | Hafiz Zaid Khanani
2023-03-11 11:30 - 12:45
Join MCC Youth Leader Hafiz Zaid Khanani‘s 9-week Saturday morning halaqa for middle school boys from 6th through 8th grade.

These sessions aim to craft our next generation of confident and faithful Muslim men. This will be the only offered for boys on Saturday mornings in 2023. These halaqas are for boys ages 11-13 only. Capped at 30 boys. Once full, please join the waitlist.

11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. | Saturdays | January 21 to March 18 (Ramadan ’23) | $120 per child | Register at HTTP://mcceastbay.org/middle-school-halaqa

The 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

Saturday morning sessions in 2023:

– January 21, 2023

– January 28, 2023

– February 4, 2023

– February 11, 2023

– February 18, 2023

– February 25, 2023

– March 4, 2023

– March 11, 2023

– March 18, 2023 (last session before Ramadan 2023)

LOCATION

MCC East Bay, 94588

Linking to Ramadan | Link Bay Area
2023-03-11 16:30 - 19:00
Throughout the year, we drift apart and away like beads on a slippery surface, a broken tasbih, waiting to be linked again. With Ramadan approaching, how do we reconnect ourselves? Join us with Dr. Zahra Murtaza, Sr. Zulaija Nieto, and Sidi Mahdy Amine for a night of reconnection with each other and with the Ramadan state of mind through reminders of how to cleanse our minds, bodies, and souls.

We will also have local vendors on site, and Halal Bites of Chicago! Join us with your family & friends!

4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. | Saturday. March 11 | Prayer Hall | RSVP at https://mcceastbay.org/link-ramadan

To register as a vendor, visit: https://mcceastbay.org/vendor

Sponsored by Link Bay Area & MCC East Bay

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

About The Speakers:

Dr. Zahra Murtaza is a Clinical and Community Psychologist and a Bay Area native who provides mental health services to diverse children, teens, and young adults. She currently works at Children’s Health Council (CHC) in Palo Alto, CA, as a Licensed Staff Psychologist and Program Coordinator. She also works with Maristan in their Stanford Muslim Mental Health Initiative (MMHI), where she provides therapy to Muslim college students.

Sr. Zulaija Nieto was born and raised in Spain and considers herself a curious human being with a particular interest in holistic health. Zulaija got her Dietetics and Nutrition Science degree at University Pablo de Olavide in Spain and specializes as a wellness coach in California.

Sidi Mahdy Amine is a practicing lawyer who graduated from Zaytuna College in 2014. Mahdy has been teaching and serving as a chaplain for over 20 years.– More Sidi Mahdy: mcceastbay.org/mahdy– More Ramadan lectures, sermons, programs & Tarawih reminders: https://mcceastbay.org/ramadan-reminders – More Ramadan Reflections: https://mcceastbay.org/reflections – More Getting Ramadan Ready series reminders: https://mcceastbay.org/ramadan-ready
