Into the Light | East Bay Interfaith Community Gathering
2021-06-27 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Please join in MCC’s parking lot or watch online in solidarity and support as we together remember those lives lost to COVID-19 and celebrate our collective rebirth and renewal.
5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | Sunday, June 27 | Parking Lot of MCC East Bay, 5724 W. Las Positas Blvd., Pleasanton
Sponsored by Eden Area Interfaith Council, Tri-Valley Interfaith Interconnect & Tri-City Interfaith Council
Join us in person or watch live at https://youtu.be/0Wlh8-8HkNM or on the Eden Area Interfaith Council’s Facebook page, Tri-Valley Interfaith Interconnect’s Facebook page, or MCC East Bay’s YouTube or Facebook pages.
We are gathering to mourn the victims of the horrific yearlong pandemic on our community.

The Coronavirus caused millions of deaths and disrupted billions of lives globally.
Group worship was also disrupted, but the outbreak has bolstered the religious faith of many faithful and opened opportunities to pray and to serve our community with food, medical supplies, and more.
Disasters and crises have a way of making some question the existence of a greater force for good in the world and others to become more religious in the wake of tragedy.
As we look forward to better days, we reflect on the intersection of faith, a pandemic, a historic social movement.

Hina Khan-Mukhtar: Emcee welcome
MCC East Bay, Pleasanton
Hafiz Ameen Mukhtar: Opening Muslim prayer
MCC East Bay, Pleasanton
Wendy Jacobsen: Opening meditative prayer and lighting of a candle
Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Castro Valley
Bishop Robert Lopez & Munir Safi: Personal impact of virus on their family and healing from pain
Eden Area Interfaith Council & Mar Thoma Orthodox Church, Northridge & MCC East Bay, Pleasanton
Jamie Ireland & Elsa Grabowski: Poem of memory for those lost to the virus and reading of poem “A Year Like No Other”
Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, Pleasanton
Trish Munro: Impact and response of City of Livermore
Livermore City Council
Ruth Gasten: A joyful post-pandemic experience
Tri-Valley Interfaith Interconnect
Arelis Sandoval, R.N, P.H.N.: Virus’ impact on frontline healthcare personnel and ongoing response
Alameda County Public Health

Congressman Eric Swalwell: reflections and gratitude to East Bay interfaith community efforts,
California 15th Congressional District
Joy Barnitz: How we practice interfaith during a pandemic
Tri-City Interfaith Council
Leslie Mero: Memorial prayer and thanksgiving for days ahead
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Hayward
Cantor Linda Hirschhorn: A song of healing and coming out of brokenness
Temple Beth Sholom, San Leandro
Mark Vaz: The peace prayer of St. Francis
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, Castro Valley
Rev. Dr. Arlene K. Nehring: Caring for our community’s most vulnerable
Eden United Church of Christ, Hayward
Roujheen Sabetan: A prayer for our departed
Baha’i Community, Pleasanton
Rene’ Castle: A prayer of peace
Starr King Universalist Church, Hayward
Soni Kaur, Gagan Singh & Manjeev Singh (Sikh Choir): Keertan (hymn song)
Gurdwara Sahib, Hayward

Sponsored by the Eden Area Interfaith Council, Tri-Valley Interfaith Interconnect & Tri-City Interfaith Council
Questions? info@edeninterfaith.org

Bone Marrow Drive at Jumu'ah
2021-07-02 13:30 - 15:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
If you are healthy and ages 18 to 44, please register to have a kit mailed to your home at Jumu’ah tomorrow to save a life of someone suffering from blood cancer.
The shortage of diverse donors is costing lives of many American Muslims.
The numbers are shocking: 60% of Asian Americans do not have a perfectly matched donor in the worldwide registry.
The reason matches are so difficult to find for these patients is simple: their genetic heritage is underrepresented in the registry, which means people sharing a similar lineage or ethnicity have not joined the registry in sufficient numbers.
The cure is inside of us to save the lives of countless community members who are fighting leukemia and and searching for stem cell transplant donors.
If you cannot attend during Jumu’ah, please request a free kit be mailed to your home at: https://join.bethematch.org/MCC
Matching on the registry generally depends on a patient’s ethnicity. Caucasians make 61 percent of 12.5 million people of the national registry. That compares to South Asians/Asians who only make 6 percent of the database. Because of this big gap, patients in the community from Asia and other ethnic patients struggle to find a match.
Every four minutes someone someone is diagnosed with a blood cancer. There are over 14,000 patients in need of a bone marrow or stem-cell donor. To match with a donor, ethnicity plays a crucial role. By registering today, you could be the one to save a life!
1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. | Friday, July 2 | MCC Foyer
The cure is inside you. For more information, please visit here.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

MCC Indoor & Outdoor Jumu'ahs
2021-07-02 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For our Friday, July 2 Jumu’ah services, masks are required to attend while inside MCC and no RSVP necessary:

1:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Shaykh Rami Nsour delivers the sermon

No outdoor services offered.
No social distancing in Prayer Hall. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks are required.

2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. – OUTDOOR ONLY

Mohammed Abdul Baseer delivers the sermon

Outdoor only. No indoor services offered.
Social distancing is optional. Masks are optional.

3:40 p.m. to 4 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Hafiz Ameen Mukhtar delivers the sermon

Indoor only. No parallel outdoor services offered.
No social distancing. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks required.

Please attend 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. prayer to avoid heavy first-prayer congestion. Jumu’ah service parking at all three services is in the MCC parking lot and the neighboring HP lot. Map

– Watch these three sermons live from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Shaykh Rami: https://mcceastbay.org/rami
– More Mohammed: https://mcceastbay.org/baseer
– More Hafiz Ameen Mukhtar: https://mcceastbay.org/ameen

For parents attending with young children, MCC offers a private mothers and fathers room with an audio and visual connection to Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while in the company of other parents with young children. The mothers/fathers prayer room are just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Alameda County reports COVID-19 cases are still happening.
We are cautiously indoors for the five daily prayers and for two of the three Jumu’ah services. The second Jumu’ah is outdoors in the MCC parking lot, weather permitting. Learn more at https://mcceastbay.org/reopening

MCC Indoor & Outdoor Jumu'ahs
2021-07-09 13:30 - 16:00 | CA
For our Friday, July 9 Jumu’ah services, masks are required to attend while inside MCC and no RSVP necessary:

1:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Dr. Ali Ataie delivers the sermon

No outdoor services offered.
No social distancing in Prayer Hall. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks are required.

2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. – OUTDOOR ONLY

Hafiz Sami Rehman delivers the sermon

Outdoor only in canopies in the MCC parking lot. No indoor services offered.
Social distancing is optional. Masks are optional.
Please check Friday afternoon weather forecast and take precautions against heat.

3:40 p.m. to 4 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Hafiz Sami Rehman delivers the sermon

Indoor only. No parallel outdoor services offered.
No social distancing. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks required.

Please attend 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. prayer to avoid heavy first-prayer congestion. Jumu’ah service parking at all three services is in the MCC parking lot and the neighboring HP lot. Map

– Watch these three sermons live from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Ustadh Ataie: https://mcceastbay.org/ataie
– More Hafiz Sami : https://mcceastbay.org/sami

For parents attending with young children, MCC offers a private mothers and fathers room with an audio and visual connection to Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while in the company of other parents with young children. The mothers/fathers prayer room are just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Alameda County reports COVID-19 cases are still happening.
We are cautiously indoors for the five daily prayers and for two of the three Jumu’ah services. The second Jumu’ah is outdoors in the MCC parking lot, weather permitting. Learn more at https://mcceastbay.org/reopening

Private Event
2021-07-10 18:30 - 21:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States

The Ten Honored Days | Imam Tahir Anwar
2021-07-10 19:15 - 20:30 | CA
The month of Dhul Hijjah is nearly upon us!
According to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the first 10 days of this month are a special time for devotion. This applies to all Muslims, not just those who are partaking in the pilgrimage.
To help you get in the spirit of this blessed time, join Imam Tahir Anwar to learn the significance of Dhul Hijjah – an overlooked gem in the Islamic calendar.
7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Saturday, July 10 | Online only; watch live at https://mcceastbay.org/live

1st Dhul-Hijjah: Sunday, July 11
“Righteous deeds done in the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah are more beloved to Allah than any other days.” (BUKHARI)

Day of Arafah, Monday, July 19
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates for sins of the previous year and the coming year (MUSLIM)

Eid Al-Adha, Tuesday, July 20
Indoor and outdoor Eid al-Adha prayer. Details forthcoming.

Our Prophet (peace be upon him) highly recommended us to fast on the blessed Day of Arafat on Monday, July 19.

Abu Hafsah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet (SAW), upon whom be peace, said: “Fasting on the Day of ‘Arafah absolves the sins for two years: the previous year and the coming year, and fasting on ‘Ashura, (the tenth day of Muharram) atones for the sins of previous years.”

?? Make the Most of the Blessed Days of Dhul Hijjah

Talks & Sermons on Dhul Hijjah: https://mcceastbay.org/dhul-hijjah
Guide for Dhul Hijjah’s First Ten Days: https://mcceastbay.org/hijjah-guide
The Eid Takbeers (pdf version): https://mcceastbay.org/takbeer
The Eid Takbeers (one hour audio loop): https://mcceastbay.org/takbir
What is Special About the Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah? | Shaykh Faid Mohammed Said

Please know that your Community Center and your charity dollars are hard at work to continue to serve our community and keep pace with the steady food and monetary demand during these difficult times for some of your East Bay neighbors.

Please remember MCC in your giving and donate now to replenish the Sadaqa & Zakat funds. Donate at https://mcceastbay.org/donate

The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah said, “There are no days during which righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (the first 10 days of Dhul HIjjah).” [Bukhari]

Read Qur’an
Make Dua
Increase Nawaafil (voluntary) prayers
Fasting
Dhikr
Charity

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Ibn ‘Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (i.e., the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah).” He was asked: “O Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah?” He (PBUH) replied, “Not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah, except in case one goes forth with his life and his property and does not return with either of it.” [Al- Bukhari]

First Day of Dhul Hijjah
2021-07-11 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
The month of Dhul Hijjah is upon us!
According to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the first 10 days of this month are a special time for devotion. This applies to all Muslims, not just those who are partaking in the pilgrimage.
To help you get in the spirit of this blessed time, listen to Imam Tahir Anwar talk about the significance of Dhul Hijjah – an overlooked gem in the Islamic calendar: https://youtu.be/ESfV47lZUEQ

1st Dhul-Hijjah: Sunday, July 11
“Righteous deeds done in the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah are more beloved to Allah than any other days.” (BUKHARI)

Day of Arafah, Monday, July 19
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates for sins of the previous year and the coming year (MUSLIM)

Eid Al-Adha, Tuesday, July 20
Indoor and outdoor Eid al-Adha prayer. Details forthcoming.

Our Prophet (peace be upon him) highly recommended us to fast on the blessed Day of Arafat on Monday, July 19.

Abu Hafsah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet (SAW), upon whom be peace, said: “Fasting on the Day of ‘Arafah absolves the sins for two years: the previous year and the coming year, and fasting on ‘Ashura, (the tenth day of Muharram) atones for the sins of previous years.”

?? Make the Most of the Blessed Days of Dhul Hijjah

Talks & Sermons on Dhul Hijjah: https://mcceastbay.org/dhul-hijjah
Guide for Dhul Hijjah’s First Ten Days: https://mcceastbay.org/hijjah-guide
The Eid Takbeers (pdf version): https://mcceastbay.org/takbeer
The Eid Takbeers (one hour audio loop): https://mcceastbay.org/takbir
What is Special About the Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah? | Shaykh Faid Mohammed Said

Please know that your Community Center and your charity dollars are hard at work to continue to serve our community and keep pace with the steady food and monetary demand during these difficult times for some of your East Bay neighbors.

Please remember MCC in your giving and donate now to replenish the Sadaqa & Zakat funds. Donate at https://mcceastbay.org/donate

The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah said, “There are no days during which righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (the first 10 days of Dhul HIjjah).” [Bukhari]

Read Qur’an
Make Dua
Increase Nawaafil (voluntary) prayers
Fasting
Dhikr
Charity

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Ibn ‘Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (i.e., the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah).” He was asked: “O Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah?” He (PBUH) replied, “Not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah, except in case one goes forth with his life and his property and does not return with either of it.” [Al- Bukhari]

✨10 DAYS OF DHUL-HIJJAH✨
They are not like Ramadan ?
It is a very short season! ⌛️
So, it’s not appropriate to be deliberately deficient in it! ?
☄ It passes quickly. So, it’s not appropriate to be lazy in it…
⛓The Devils are NOT chained … as opposed to Ramadan..!
The goal is more difficult,?
The superiority is greater, ?
But
Those seeking it are fewer..!?
The reward of Good Deeds in these days is greater… ?
its price… more expensive!?
Most of the people are in negligence during these days…?
They don’t pray at night like in Ramadan!?
Nor do they see the blessings of reciting the Qur’an as they did in Ramadan! ?
? So let’s be vigilant &
? Fast its daylight hours ☀️
? Stand in Qiyaam at the night hours?
? Spend lots of Time with the Qur’an⏰
? Increase Takbiraat ?
❤️️Laa ilaaha illaAllah…
❤️️Allahu Akbar…
❤️️Alhamdulillah…
Numbered days…1️⃣0️⃣
Fast passing days…?
Will You benefit from them⁉️

Civic Engagement Workshop: How to Pass a Resolution
2021-07-15 17:30 - 19:00 | CA
Passing any local policy measure or decision, however important, can take a lot of work. With the right approach and tactics, though, anyone can make meaningful change.
5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. | Thursday, July 15 | Join at https://mcceastbay.org/civic-resolution
One type of policy is a resolution – sometimes called a ‘proclamation’ – which shows that a decision-making body acknowledges an important event or communicates a position. Whether the body is a city, county, student body, student government, or union: passing a resolution is one way to rally community members and decision-makers together to

show solidarity
mobilize around awareness- and community-building
demonstrate an intention to take collective action towards desired change

Join us in this workshop where you’ll learn the steps of getting a resolution passed with your school or local government/decision-makers! We will also invite participants to connect with others interested in collaborating on Muslim Appreciation Month and other local resolutions.
Register today at https://mcceastbay.org/civic-resolution and invite a friend!
Sponsored by CAIR California, Lighthouse Mosque, MCC East Bay & more!

Maristan Tables at Jumu'ah
2021-07-16 13:30 - 16:00 | CA
Maristan Center for Mental & Spiritual Wellbeing
tables at MCC’s three Jumu’ahs about their Bay Area inaugural event on Sunday, July 18.
About Maristan: Grounded in Islamic traditions, Maristan aims to lead professional clinical care, education, and research in advancing holistic, mental and spiritual wellness. Learn more at https://maristan.org

MCC Indoor & Outdoor Jumu'ahs
2021-07-16 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For our Friday, July 16 Jumu’ah services, masks are required to attend while inside MCC and no RSVP necessary:

1:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Sidi Mahdy Amine delivers the sermon

No outdoor services offered.
No social distancing in Prayer Hall. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks are required.

2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. – OUTDOOR ONLY

Sidi Mahdy Amine delivers the sermon

Outdoor only in canopies in the MCC parking lot. No indoor services offered.
Social distancing is optional. Masks are optional.
Please check Friday afternoon weather forecast and take precautions against heat.

3:40 p.m. to 4 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Hafiz Sami Rehman delivers the sermon

Indoor only. No parallel outdoor services offered.
No social distancing. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks required.

Please attend 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. prayer to avoid heavy first-prayer congestion. Jumu’ah service parking at all three services is in the MCC parking lot and the neighboring HP lot. Map

– Watch these three sermons live from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Hafiz Sami : https://mcceastbay.org/sami

For parents attending with young children, MCC offers a private mothers and fathers room with an audio and visual connection to Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while in the company of other parents with young children. The mothers/fathers prayer room are just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Alameda County reports COVID-19 cases are still happening.
We are cautiously indoors for the five daily prayers and for two of the three Jumu’ah services. The second Jumu’ah is outdoors in the MCC parking lot, weather permitting. Learn more at https://mcceastbay.org/reopening

Averroes High School Tables
2021-07-16 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Averroes High School is here to promote enrollment for their 2021-2022 academic year. They have been in the Bay Area for 11 years educating Muslim youth with 100% college acceptance rates for their students afterwards. Learn more at: https://www.averroeshighschool.com

Private Event | Banquet Hall
2021-07-17 12:30 - 18:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States

Eid Al-Adha Bazaar
2021-07-18 14:00 - 20:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Before the Eid day festivities, come to MCC to do some shopping from community vendors and enjoy dinner with the family from a halal food truck at our Fourth-Annual Eid Bazar.
2 p.m. to 8 p.m. | Sunday, July 18 | MCC Banquet Hall (free to enter; masks required)
Sponsored by Halal Fest & MCC East Bay
Admission is free. Bring the entire family. Purchase dinner on site from Golden Gate Halal Food Truck that will be parked in the MCC parking lot.
Come get henna art and shop for jewelry, clothes, soaps, hijabs, Islamic books, Islamic dolls, abayas, and more!
Don’t miss this opportunity to support our local vendors and do a little shopping for Eid. Also join us for our Eid al-Adha outdoor prayers and Halal Food Truck celebration.
FOR VENDORS:
Limited vendor spots available on first-come, first-serve basis in the Banquet Hall. Complete the interest form at mcceastbay.org/bazar
For questions about this Bazar, please email bazar@mcceastbay.org or call Sister Shazia Ashraf at (925) 640-2967.

Healing of the Ummah | Dr. Rania Awaad
2021-07-18 17:00 - 19:00 | CA
On the eve of Arafah, join a new organization for providing mental health in the Bay Area – Maristan: The Center for Mental & Spiritual Wellbeing – for an evening of healing and reflection.
Join Imam Zaid Shakir (Zaytuna College, Co-Founder), Zahra Billooo (CAIR-SFBA, Executive Director), Dr. Hatem Bazian (Islamophobia Research & Documentation Project, Founder), Dalia Mogahed (ISPU, Director of Research), and Dr. Rania Awaad (Maristan, Executive Director).
5 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Sunday, July 18 | RSVP at mcceastbay.org/maristan
Maristan is dedicated to treating psychological illnesses is unique to the Muslim world as it was inspired directly by Islamic teachings found in the Qu’ran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad. Learn more at https://maristan.org
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Blessed Fast on Day of Arafat
2021-07-19 | CA
We cannot host our annual Arafat Iftar this year. We strongly encourage you to fast this Monday, July 19.
Hadith: “Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates for sins of the previous year and the coming year.”

Abu Hafsah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet (SAW), upon whom be peace, said: “Fasting on the Day of ‘Arafah absolves the sins for two years: the previous year and the coming year, and fasting on ‘Ashura, (the tenth day of Muharram) atones for the sins of previous years.”

According to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the first 10 days of this month are a special time for devotion. This applies to all Muslims, not just those who are partaking in the pilgrimage.

1st Dhul-Hijjah: Sunday, July 11
“Righteous deeds done in the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah are more beloved to Allah than any other days.” (BUKHARI)

Day of Arafah, Monday, July 19
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates for sins of the previous year and the coming year (MUSLIM)

Eid Al-Adha, Tuesday, July 20
Indoor and outdoor Eid al-Adha prayer. Details.

Our Prophet (peace be upon him) highly recommended us to fast on the blessed Day of Arafat on Monday, July 19.

?? Make the Most of the Blessed Days of Dhul Hijjah

Talks & Sermons on Dhul Hijjah: https://mcceastbay.org/dhul-hijjah
Guide for Dhul Hijjah’s First Ten Days: https://mcceastbay.org/hijjah-guide
The Eid Takbeers (pdf version): https://mcceastbay.org/takbeer
The Eid Takbeers (one hour audio loop): https://mcceastbay.org/takbir
What is Special About the Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah? | Shaykh Faid Mohammed Said

Please know that your Community Center and your charity dollars are hard at work to continue to serve our community and keep pace with the steady food and monetary demand during these difficult times for some of your East Bay neighbors.

Please remember MCC in your giving and donate now to replenish the Sadaqa & Zakat funds. Donate at https://mcceastbay.org/donate

The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah said, “There are no days during which righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (the first 10 days of Dhul HIjjah).” [Bukhari]

Read Qur’an
Make Dua
Increase Nawaafil (voluntary) prayers
Fasting
Dhikr
Charity

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Ibn ‘Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (i.e., the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah).” He was asked: “O Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah?” He (PBUH) replied, “Not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah, except in case one goes forth with his life and his property and does not return with either of it.” [Al- Bukhari]

Eid Al-Adha Prayers
2021-07-20 07:15 - 11:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Eid Al-Adha will be on Tuesday, July 20th.

All prayers will be held at MCC (the first two outdoors in the parking lot and the third indoors in MCC prayer halls).
Registration is required for each member of your family.
Bring your prayer rug if attending outdoor services.
Masks are required for indoor services, and for those unvaccinated.
Please remember to park at HP building. (entrance “A” on map)

First Service

Outdoors at MCC Parking Lot
Khateeb: Sidi Yousaf Seyal
Takbeerat begins at 7:15 a.m.
Prayer promptly at 7:30 a.m.

RSVP at: https://mcceastbay.org/eid-1

Second Service

Outdoors at MCC Parking Lot
Khateeb: Shaykh Hamza Yusuf
Takbeerat begins at 8:45 a.m.
Prayer promptly at 9:00 a.m.
RSVP: *This prayer is positively full. No room remains. Please RSVP for the first or third Eid service.*

Third Service

Indoors at MCC Prayer Halls
Khateeb: Ustadh Dr. Ali Ataie
Takbeerat begins at 10:15 a.m.
Prayer promptly at 10:30 a.m.
RSVP at: https://mcceastbay.org/eid-3

Eid Prayers at MCC

Registration is required for each member of your family, including children.
Factor in 10 minutes for parking and walking to the prayer space.
Enter through “A” for parking in HP parking. The security guard will close parking “B” once the limited parking spaces in MCC lot are full.
Once the prayer area is full, security guards will seal all entrances and ask you to join the next service.
Do not park in neighboring businesses or jaywalk on W. Las Positas. Pleasanton police will perform extra patrols during Eid services.
Please leave promptly after each prayer to make room for the next service.

Staying Pandemic Safe

Outdoors: Bring your own prayer rug. Face masks are required for worshippers not fully vaccinated.
Indoor: face mask required for everyone.
Outdoors: First rows in canopies with straw carpeting down are no social distancing prayer spots. Rows on asphalt have social distancing markers and same-household families are encouraged to cluster.

The Eid Prayer

On the way to the prayer, please also play the Eid Takbeers in your car: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpP891hfZUc
Stay seated after the prayer. Eid prayer is first and the sermon is second.
Due to Covid, we will not have to provide Takbeer sheets. Pull up this image on your phone to follow along with the Takbeers: https://mcceastbay.org/eid-takbeers

Jazakum Allahu Khairan for your cooperation and support.

More Shaykh Hamza: https://mcceastbay.org/hamza
More Ustadh Ataie: https://mcceastbay.org/ali

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

*The takbeerat begins 15 minutes prior to each Eid prayer, which begin promptly. The sermon follows Eid prayer.
Please remember that the Khutbah (sermon) follows each prayer so please pay attention attentively.
Please also fast with the community on the blessed day of Arafat on Monday, July 19. This MCC is not hosting its annual Arafat Iftar in 2021.
Summarized Table of What to Do this Month

Sunday, July 11-18
1st-8th of Dhul Ḥijjah
Recommended to fast and do good deeds
“Righteous deeds done in the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah are more beloved to Allah than any other days.” (BUKHARI)

Monday, July 19
9th of Dhul Ḥijjah
Highly recommended to fast
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates for sins of the previous year and the coming year (MUSLIM).

Tuesday, July 20
10th of Dhul Ḥijjah
Eid prayer and animal sacrifice

Fajr of Monday, July 19 to Asr of Friday, July 23
Ayam ul Tashreeq
These are the Days of Remembrance in the three days following ‘Eid ul-Adha. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) called these the days of food and drink. Recite Takbeerat after each prayer during these days.

?? Make the Most of the Blessed Days of Dhul Hijjah

Talks & Sermons on Dhul Hijjah: https://mcceastbay.org/dhul-hijjah
Eid al-Adha Khutbahs: https://mcceastbay.org/eid-adha
Guide for Dhul Hijjah’s First Ten Days: https://mcceastbay.org/hijjah-guide
The Eid Takbeers (pdf version): https://mcceastbay.org/takbeer
The Eid Takbeers (one-hour audio loop): https://mcceastbay.org/takbir
What is Special About the Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah? | Shaykh Faid Mohammed Said

Also, join us for our Eid al-Adha outdoor prayers and Halal Food Truck celebration. Also, join us for our Eid bazar and Halal Food Truck celebration.

Please know that your Community Center and your charity dollars are hard at work to continue to serve our community and keep pace with the steady food and monetary demand during these difficult times for some of your East Bay neighbors.

Please remember MCC in your giving and donate now to replenish the Sadaqa & Zakat funds. Donate at https://mcceastbay.org/donate

The new crescent moon of Dhul HIjjah was sighted on the evening of Saturday, July 10. MCC follows traditional moonsighting that relies on the regional, verifiable naked-eye sighting of the new crescent moon.

For those worshipers attending one of the two prayer services at the yet-announced outdoor prayer area, please remember to bring:

A prayer rug or sheet with you.
A (plastic/tote) bag to keep your shoes with you for the duration of the service.
Bring your own (reusable) water bottle to keep hydrated.

Eid Al-Adha Bazaar 2021
MCC will also host a pre-Eid bazar with several community vendors from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 18. Details

The Month of Dhul Hijjah – What a Muslim Should Do

What is Dhul Hijjah?
Dhul Hijjah is the name of the last month in the Islamic lunar calendar. It literally means: “the time of Hajj”.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and constitutes the pilgrimage to Makkah, which every Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime if they are able to undertake it. That is what makes this month so special: it is the month in which the Pilgrimage takes place.
The First Ten Days
The first ten days are considered to be special in Islam. Allah created time and made some times to be better than others, where rewards are multiplied. This encourages people to do more good deeds and renew their zeal to worship Allah. It is similar to a farmer who works extra hard to plant crops during certain seasons because those times of the year will yield better results. The Prophet said regarding Dhul Ḥijjah, “There are no other days in which actions are better than in these ten days.”[1]
Therefore, it is recommended to increase in good deeds. Fast on as many of these days as possible, like the Prophet Muhammad did.[2] Pray in the masjid more often. Read more Qur’an, and reflect on it. Give more charity. Visit people who are sick. Be extra careful not to gossip, use profanity, or insult others.
Technically, the tenth day is the day of Eid, which is a celebration. It is not allowed to fast on this day. So when ‘ten days’ are mentioned, it actually means the first nine days of the month.
Cutting Hair and Nails
Some scholars hold that a person should not cut their nails or hair during these first ten days of Dhul Ḥijjah. That is because of the report that the Prophet Muhammad said: “Whoever sights the crescent for the month of Dhul Ḥijjah and intends to sacrifice an animal should cut neither his hair nor his nails.”[3] Imam Nawawī says that the wisdom behind this could be that a person who is offering a sacrifice wants to resemble a person performing Hajj since it is about sacrifice, so they refrain from cutting the hair and nails to further the resemblance [since pilgrims to Makkah are also not allowed to cut].[4]
However, there is another report about the Prophet by his wife ʿĀ’ishah that: “…the Prophet sent a sacrificial animal to the Kaʿbah [while residing at Madīnah] but did not abstain from anything [that a person performing Ḥajj would abstain from]…”[5] This report led many scholars to say that it is perfectly fine to cut one’s hair and nails during these days. This is the opinion that I lean towards. See the Appendix below for a more detailed discussion of why scholars have differed on this issue.
Fast on the 9th Day
The 9th day of this month (Saturday, Aug. 10) is called “the day of ʿArafah” because that is the day the pilgrims performing Hajj gather in the plain of ʿArafah, just outside Makkah. It is highly recommended for people who are not performing Hajj to fast on this day. This is a special fast that the Prophet Muhammad said: “Fasting on the day of ʿArafah is an expiation for the preceding year and the following year.”[6] This meant that the fast is so rewarded that it helps to absolve a person of some of the sins they committed in the past and might do in the future.
So, one day before the Eid celebration, make sure to fast (MCC hosts an Arafat program with Dr. Ataie and an outdoor Iftar on the eve of Eid).
Summarized Table of What to Do this Month

Sunday, July 11-18
1st-8th of Dhul Ḥijjah
Recommended to fast and do good deeds

Monday, July 19
9th of Dhul Ḥijjah
Highly recommended to fast

Tuesday, July 20
10th of Dhul Ḥijjah
Eid prayer and animal sacrifice

Fajr of Monday, July 19 to Asr of Friday, July 23
Ayam ul Tashreeq
These are the Days of Remembrance in the three days following ‘Eid ul-Adha. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) called these the days of food and drink. Recite Takbeerat after each prayer during these days.

Appendix
Muslims scholars have differed over whether or not there are any restrictions on cutting the nails or hair during the first ten days of Dhul Ḥijjah. This results from different approaches to dealing with the prophetic reports on the issue. There are two main pieces of evidence which result in three different opinions about how to understand them.
A: The prophetic report narrated by Umm Salamah states: “Whoever sights the crescent for the month of Dhul Ḥijjah and intends to sacrifice an animal should cut neither his hair nor his nails.”[7]
B: The prophetic report narrated by ʿĀ’ishah that: “…the Prophet sent a sacrificial animal to the Kaʿbah [while residing at Madīnah] but did not abstain from anything [that a person performing Ḥajj would abstain from]…”[8]
The first opinion is to affirm that both reports are equally authentic. Report A should be taken in its literal sense, but report B should be confined to only those who send a sacrificial animal, not those who sacrifice an animal within their own city.[9] The scholars who took this approach and said cutting nails and hair is forbidden for a person who intends to slaughter are Aḥmad ibn Ḥambal, Ibn Ḥazm, and Ṭaḥāwī [of the Ḥanafī school].[10]
The second opinion is to affirm both reports as equally authentic and that they are addressing the exact same issue, but understand that report A should not be taken literally as a prohibition, but rather as something disliked. The scholars who took this approach are ash-Shāfiʿī and some of Aḥmad ibn Ḥanbal’s students [such as Abū Yaʿlā].[11]
The third opinion is to prefer report B over report A because it is of a higher standard of authenticity. Report A is also dismissed since it is contrary to analogy [qiyās] because if a person was supposed to refrain from cutting their nails and hair, they should have also been instructed to refrain from certain clothing, perfume, and intimacy because that is what people who are performing Hajj must also do.[12] The scholars who took this approach and said there is nothing wrong with cutting the hair or nails are Abū Ḥanīfah and his students, Mālik and his students, and Sufyān al-Thawrī.[13]

[1] Al-Bukhārī
[2] “Allah’s Messenger used to fast the [first] nine days of Dhul Ḥijjah…” Abū Dāwūd
[3] Muslim 3:1565, Abū Dā’ūd 3:94, Tirmidhī 4:102, Nasā’ī 7:211.
[4] Sharḥ al-Nawawī ʿalā Muslim 13:138-139. Al-Nawawī mentioned another possible reason as well which I prefer not to mention here.
[5] Bukhārī 7:102, Muslim 2:957.
[6] Muslim
[7] Muslim 3:1565, Abū Dā’ūd 3:94, Tirmidhī 4:102, Nasā’ī 7:211.
[8] Bukhārī 7:102, Muslim 2:957.
[9] `Awn al-Maʿbūd wa Ḥāshiyah ibn al-Qayyim ʿalā Sunan Abī Dāwūd 7:346, al-Istidhkār 4:84.
[10] al-Tirmidhī 4:102, Tuḥfah al-Aḥwadhī 5:99-100, Sharḥ Mushkil al-Āthār 14:141-143.
[11] Tuḥfah al-Aḥwadhī 5:99-100, `Awn al-Maʿbūd wa Ḥāshiyah ibn al-Qayyim ʿalā Sunan Abī Dāwūd 7:346.
[12] `Awn al-Maʿbūd wa Ḥāshiyah ibn al-Qayyim ʿalā Sunan Abī Dāwūd 7:347.
[13] Tuḥfah al-Aḥwadhī 5:99-100, al-Istidhkār 4:84.

The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah said, “There are no days during which righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (the first 10 days of Dhul HIjjah).” [Bukhari]

Read Qur’an
Make Dua
Increase Nawaafil (voluntary) prayers
Increase fasting
Increase Dhikr (supplications)
Increase charity

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Ibn ‘Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days (i.e., the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah).” He was asked: “O Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah?” He (PBUH) replied, “Not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah, except in case one goes forth with his life and his property and does not return with either of it.” [Al- Bukhari]
It is a good sunnah to do Qurbani/Udhiyah to feed the poor in these times. Some scholars may have viewed it as obligatory, however, the majority see it as a voluntary (sunnah/mustahab) act. For those who wish to do Qurbani, it is mustahab (or voluntary sunnah) to avoid cutting hair and nails until the Qurbani is slaughtered. If you cut any hair or nails, however, your Qurbani is accepted and it has no effect on the slaughter.

Qurbani Meat Collection
2021-07-20 12:00 - 18:00, 2021-07-22 12:00 - 18:00, 2021-07-23 12:00 - 18:00, 2021-07-24 12:00 - 18:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
MCC takes donated Qurbani/Udhiya meat from Eid al-Adha ’21 and distributes it to 220 families in the East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area who receive food delivery from the MCC Food & Diapers pantry.
12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20, Thursday, July 22, Friday, July 23 or Saturday, July 24.
Please cut meat in small size (preferably stew size) and place in small bags and seal well (preferably recommend Ziploc-type bags).
Questions or to make alternate arrangements? Please contact Aminah Abdullah at (925) 264-9297 or aminah@mcceastbay.org

Catholic Charities Tables
2021-07-23 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Learn more about Catholic Charities Refugee Foster Care

MCC Indoor & Outdoor Jumu'ahs
2021-07-23 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For our Friday, July 23 Jumu’ah services, masks are required to attend while inside MCC and no RSVP necessary:

1:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Imam Dawood Yasin delivers the sermon

No outdoor services offered.
No social distancing in Prayer Hall. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks are required.

2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. – OUTDOOR ONLY

Imam Dawood Yasin delivers the sermon

Outdoor only in canopies in the MCC parking lot. No indoor services offered.
Social distancing is optional. Masks are optional.
Please check Friday afternoon weather forecast and take precautions against heat.

3:40 p.m. to 4 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Ustadh Tarif Arabi delivers the sermon

Indoor only. No parallel outdoor services offered.
No social distancing. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks required.

Please attend 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. prayer to avoid heavy first-prayer congestion. Jumu’ah service parking at all three services is in the MCC parking lot and the neighboring HP lot. Map

– Watch these three sermons live from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Imam Dawood : https://mcceastbay.org/dawood
– More Ustadh Tareef: https://mcceastbay.org/tarif

For parents attending with young children, MCC offers a private mothers and fathers room with an audio and visual connection to Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while in the company of other parents with young children. The mothers/fathers prayer room are just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Alameda County reports COVID-19 cases are still happening.
We are cautiously indoors for the five daily prayers and for two of the three Jumu’ah services. The second Jumu’ah is outdoors in the MCC parking lot, weather permitting. Learn more at https://mcceastbay.org/reopening

Private Event
2021-07-24 13:00 - 16:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
UF – Conference Room & Banquet Hall

Halal Food Truck Festival
2021-07-25 15:30 - 20:30 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Halal Fest and MCC invites the community to our Halal Food Truck Festival on Sunday, July 25 from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Your Zabiha Halal food options available for purchase are: El Halal Amigos (Mexican), Halal Bites of Chicago (Mediterranean), Cafe Salaam (African American), and Golnazar Ice Cream (Persian).
The food trucks will be stationed in MCC’s back parking lot. Seating available under canopies. Bring your family for great food and fun at MCC and celebrate Eid Al-Adha in community. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we will not have a bouncy house or other kids activities this year.
Sponsored by Halal Fest & MCC
Also join us for our Eid al-Adha outdoor prayers and Halal Food Truck celebration. Also join us for our Eid al-Adha outdoor prayers and Eid Al-Adha Bazaar.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Community E-waste Recycling Drive
2021-07-30 13:00 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Pack up those unwanted items and bring them to the MCC parking lot during Jumu’ah (1 p.m. to 4 p.m.) on Friday, July 30.
Working and nonworking e-waste items can include: monitors, TVs, computers, servers, laptops, cell phones, telecom equipment, wire/cable, PC boards, stereo components and video game players, computer mice, keyboards, printers, fax & copy machines, toner and ink cartridges, stereo equipment, VCRs, DVD/CD/MP3 players, microwave ovens and small appliances. You can also recycle old televisions, computers, wires and cables.
As you’ve been spending more time at home during this global pandemic, you may have come across items that need to be recycled. This is a great opportunity to make more space in your home for the things that matter more to you and benefit our needy neighbors
Hazardous waste (fluorescent lights, alkaline batteries, propane tanks, helium tanks, chemical storage containers or any items with freon or other gas) will NOT be accepted.
Help MCC and our environment at the same time. The money raised from this event helps social services to our needy East Bay neighbors.
Organized by Milpitas Musallah‘s social services team and MCC East Bay
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

American Adirai Forum Tables
2021-07-30 13:15 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Learn more about this nonprofit at: https://americanadiraiforum.org

MCC Indoor & Outdoor Jumu'ahs
2021-07-30 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For our Friday, July 23 Jumu’ah services, masks are required to attend while inside MCC and no RSVP necessary:

1:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Dr. Asad Tarsin delivers this sermon

No outdoor services offered.
No social distancing in Prayer Hall. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks are required.

2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. – OUTDOOR ONLY

Hafiz Sami Rehman delivers this sermon

Outdoor only in canopies in the MCC parking lot. No indoor services offered.
Social distancing is optional. Masks are optional.
Please check Friday afternoon weather forecast and take precautions against heat.

3:40 p.m. to 4 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Hafiz Rehan Chisti delivers this sermon

Indoor only. No parallel outdoor services offered.
No social distancing. Prayer will be shoulder-to-shoulder.
Masks required.

Please attend 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. prayer to avoid heavy first-prayer congestion. Jumu’ah service parking at all three services is in the MCC parking lot and the neighboring HP lot. Map

– Watch these three sermons live from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Sidi Asad : https://mcceastbay.org/asad
– More Hafiz Sami: https://mcceastbay.org/sami
– More Hafiz Rehan: https://mcceastbay.org/rehan

For parents attending with young children, MCC offers a private mothers and fathers room with an audio and visual connection to Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while in the company of other parents with young children. The mothers/fathers prayer room are just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Alameda County reports COVID-19 cases are still happening.
We are cautiously indoors for the five daily prayers and for two of the three Jumu’ah services. The second Jumu’ah is outdoors in the MCC parking lot, weather permitting. Learn more at https://mcceastbay.org/reopening

Sisters' Seerah Weekly Book Club
2021-08-04 10:45 - 12:15 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
Join our weekly sisters’ virtual & in-person Seerah book club where we have an active discussion, take away lessons for our daily lives, and inshaAllah fall in love with the Prophet ﷺ. We are reading “The Sultan of Hearts Prophet Muhammad ﷺ” by Resit Haylamaz and Fatih Harpci.
RSVP for the live registration link below at mcceastbay.org/bookclub. No RSVP needed to join us in person in the MCC Conference Room (masks and social distancing required)
Event Details:
The discussion will take place every Wednesday from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. starting May 26 and continue into Fall 2021. From Wednesday, Aug. 4 to Sept. 1, we will begin a hybrid in-person & virtual session. For the link to join virtually, please register below.
Ustadha Leila Fakira sends the webinar link to registered attendees after registration.
Book Purchase:
If you wish to follow along with the book, you’ll need to purchase the book. The book is out of print, but can be purchased here:

https://www.antstores.com/search?type=product&q=9781597849425
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1597849421/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fab_mHaAFb4CRDKX5

Questions? bookclub@mcceastbay.org

About the Book
Offering a comprehensive narrative of one of the most fascinating life stories of human history, The Sultan of Hearts is an authoritative work on the life of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. The book relies firmly on canonical Hadith collections and Sirah literature, and is rich with references to many contemporary biographical works such as Al-Maktabatu’s-Sirah, Al-Maktabatu’l-Alfiyah, and Al-Maktabatu’sh-Shamilah.
The Sultan of Hearts presents the life of the Prophet and the events that unfolded during his mission by contextualizing them with Qur’anic revelations.
Analyzing “reasons of revelation” (Asbab al-Nuzul), a method in Tafsir studies, authors portray how every revealed verse of God’s word transformed his society and they reconstruct the biography based on this interaction between the scripture and the events. The book lays bare the role of the Qur’an in the education of the large congregation of the Companions, and with it reveals the kind of teaching and drill that the Messenger of Allah exercised in his close circle.
The developments that preceded and followed the statements of the beloved Prophet are reported extensively in order to point to both the educational aspects of the Qur’an and the role of our noble Prophet in transforming people’s lives. There are also detailed accounts of the spiritual and psychological states of many individuals from those who believed the Prophet and those who did not.

MCC Indoor & Outdoor Jumu'ahs
2021-08-06 13:30 - 16:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
For our Friday, August 6 Jumu’ah services, masks are required to attend while inside MCC and no RSVP necessary:

1:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

Ustadh Feraidoon Mojadedi delivers this sermon

No parallel outdoor services offered.
No social distancing in Prayer Hall (shoulder-to-shoulder). Social distance worship for women in Banquet Hall & men in Conference Room.
Masks are required.

2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. – OUTDOOR ONLY

Mohammed Abdul Baseer delivers this sermon

Outdoor in canopies in the MCC parking lot. No parallel indoor services offered.
No social distancing in first canopy near sermon speaker for men and no social distancing for first row for women. All other space is social distancing required.
Masks are optional.
Please check Friday afternoon weather forecast and take precautions against heat.

3:40 p.m. to 4 p.m. – INDOOR ONLY

A TBA speaker delivers this sermon

No parallel outdoor services offered.
No social distancing in Prayer Hall (shoulder-to-shoulder). Social distance worship for women in Banquet Hall & men in Conference Room.
Masks are required.

Please attend 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. prayer to avoid heavy first-prayer congestion. Jumu’ah service parking at all three services is in the MCC parking lot and the neighboring HP lot. Map

– Watch these three sermons live from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live
– More Sidi Feraidoon: https://mcceastbay.org/feraidoon
– More Brother Baseer: https://mcceastbay.org/baseer

For parents attending with young children, MCC offers a private mothers and fathers room with an audio and visual connection to Prayer Hall. Parents can watch the sermon and pray while in the company of other parents with young children. The mothers/fathers prayer room are just past the Banquet Hall doors into the school area.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org
Alameda County reports COVID-19 cases are still happening.
We are cautiously indoors for the five daily prayers and for two of the three Jumu’ah services. The second Jumu’ah is outdoors in the MCC parking lot, weather permitting. Learn more at https://mcceastbay.org/reopening

Prayer for Rain: Turning to God in Tribulation | Imam Tahir Anwar
2021-08-07 13:30 - 14:20 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
“Our Lord relieve us of the torment. Lo! we are believers!” (The Smoke 44:12)
About half of our state is in exceptional drought. That is 37 million Californians. The drought emergency and dry conditions are also a fire danger, and harsh water restrictions are expected.
As people of faith, the impact of human sin becomes apparent as we enter into yet another drought.
We are taught by the blessed Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to turn to God in these times and atone for our sins by collectively praying for rain by performing Salat Al-Istisqa. In addition to supplications seeking rain, this is a time for mass repentance.
The prayer, led by Imam Tahir Anwar, is organized with the participation of several Bay Area masjids and Islamic organizations like the MCC East Bay, Islamic Center of Livermore (ICL), and Evergreen Islamic Center.
1:30 p.m. to 2:20 p.m. | Saturday, Aug. 6 | MCC Parking Lot (or watch live) | No RSVP needed

– Past Istisqa rain prayers: https://mcceastbay.org/rain-salat
– Watch prayer & sermon live on YouTube at https://mcceastbay.org/live
– Watch prayer & sermon live on Facebook at https://mcceastbay.org/facebook
– More Imam Tahir: https://mcceastbay.org/tahir
– Dua for Rain Imam Umar al-Yafi (translated by Hamza Yusuf): https://mcceastbay.org/rain-dua

Please bring a mask and a prayer mat.
Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Watch Past Rain Prayers in Pleasanton

2023 with Qari Amar Bellaha
2021 with Imam Tahir Anwar
2020 with Shaykh Hamza Yusuf
2018 with Shaykh Rami Nsour
2017 with Imam Dawood Yasin
2014 with Shaykh Hamza Yusuf

About Salat Al-Istisqa
This prayer is taken recourse to when seeking rain from Allah. It may be performed in one of the following manners:
1- The imam (leader of prayer) prays, with the followers, two rak`ahs (units of prayer) during any time except those times in which it is not desirable to pray. In the first rak`ah, the imam recites Surat Al-A`la (the 78th chapter of the Qur’an) after Surat Al-Fatihah (the first chapter of the Qur’an). And in the second rak`ah, he reads Surat Al-Ghashiyah (the 88th chapter of the Qur’an) after Al-Fatihah, and he delivers a khutbah before or after the Salah.
As soon as he finishes the khutbah, the people present should turn their outer garments around, each placing its left side on his right side and its right side on his left, face the qiblah (direction of the Ka`bah), supplicate to Allah and raise their hands while doing so.
Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: “The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) went out [to make the Salat Al-Istisqa’] wearing old clothes, in a humble and lowly manner, and prayed two rak`ahs as he prayed the `Eid, but he did not give a similar khutbah.” (Agreed upon)
`A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) says: “The people complained to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) about lack of rain, so he gave orders for a pulpit, and when it was set up for him, he appointed a day for the people to gather. He came out on that day when the sun had just appeared and sat down on the pulpit. He extolled Allah’s greatness and praised Him. Then he said: ‘You have complained of drought in your areas and of delay in receiving rain at the beginning of its season, but you have been ordered by Allah to supplicate Him and He has promised that He would answer your prayers.’ Then he said: ‘All praise is for Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful, the King of the Day of Judgment. There is no God but Allah Who does what He wishes. O Allah, there is no God except You. You are the Self-sufficient and we are the poor. Send down rain upon us and make it a source of strength for us and satisfaction for us.’ He then raised his hands and kept raising them till the whiteness of his armpits could be seen.
After this, he turned his back to the people and inverted his cloak, keeping his hands raised. Finally, he faced the people, descended from the pulpit, and prayed two rak`ahs. At that time Allah produced a cloud, thunder, and lightning. And, by Allah’s permission, it rained and before he reached the mosque there was flooding. Then he saw how quickly the people were running for shelter, he laughed until his molar teeth could be seen. He said: ‘I bear witness that Allah has power over all things and I am Allah’s slave and Messenger.’” (Al-Hakim and Abu Dawud)
2- The supplication for rain can also be made on the occasion of Salat Al-Jumu`ah (Friday Prayer). In this case, the imam makes supplications during khutbat Al-jumu`ah with the people of the congregation saying (Ameen).
Shuraik narrated on the authority of Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) that a man entered the mosque on Friday while the Prophet (peace be upon him) was addressing the people. The man said: “O Messenger of Allah, our wealth has been destroyed and we have no transport to the market place. Supplicate for us for rain.” The Prophet raised his hands and said: “O Allah, give us rain. O Allah, give us rain. O Allah, give us rain.”Anas said: “By Allah, at that time there were no clouds in the sky and there was no house or building between us and the mountain. From behind the mountain came a cloud looking like a shield. By the time it reached the middle of the sky, it burst and started to rain. By Allah, we did not see the sun for one week. Then, on the next Friday, a man entered the mosque from that (same) door while the Prophet was making the address. The man faced the Prophet and said: ‘Our livestock is dead and the paths are unpassable. Ask Allah to make it stop.’ The Prophet raised his hands and said: ‘O Allah, around us and not upon us. O Allah, make it upon the hills, small mountains, bottom of the valleys, and plantations.’ The rain stopped and we walked out in the sunshine.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
3- One may also make a supplication (for rain) without it being Friday and regardless of whether or not the prayer takes place inside or outside the mosque.
Shurahbil ibn As-Simt said to Ka`b ibn Murrah (may Allah be pleased with them): “O Ka`b, relate to us something from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).” Ka`b said: “When a man came and said to the Prophet of Allah, ‘Seek rain for the tribe of Mudar,’ I heard the Prophet say: ‘You are a bold man. You want me to seek rain for the tribe of Mudar?’ The man said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, you have sought victory from Allah and He gave you victory. You supplicated Allah and He answered you.’ The Messenger of Allah raised his hands and said: ‘O Allah, give us a saving rain, good and productive, general and heavy, now and not later, beneficial and not harmful.’ Allah responded to his supplication. It was not long before the people came complaining about the profusion of rain, and damage to their dwellings. The Messenger of Allah raised his hands and said: ‘O Allah, around us and not upon us.’ The clouds began dispersing left and right.” (Ahmad and Ibn Majah)
Some supplications for rain:
The following are some of the supplications that have been transmitted.
Ash-Shafi`i states that it has been related from Salim ibn `Abdullah, on the authority of his father that the Prophet (peace be upon him) would say for istisqa’: “O Allah, give us a saving rain, productive, plentiful, general, continuous. O Allah, give us rain and do not make us among the despondent. O Allah, (Your) slaves, land, animals, and (Your) creation all are suffering and seek protection. And we do not complain except to You. O Allah, let our crops grow, and let the udders be refilled. Give us from the blessings of the sky and grow for us from the blessings of the earth. O Allah, remove from us the hardship, starvation, and barrenness and remove the affliction from us as no one removes afflictions save Thee. O Allah, we seek Your forgiveness as You are the Forgiving, and send upon us plenteous rains.” Ash-Shafi`i said: “I prefer that the imam would supplicate with that (prayer).”
Sa`d reported that for istisqa’, the Prophet would supplicate: “O Allah, let us be covered with thick clouds that have abundant and beneficial rain, frequently making a light rain upon us and sprinkling upon us with lightning. O Allah, You are full of majesty, bounty and Honor.” (Abu `Awanah in his Sahih collection)
`Amr ibn Shuaib relates from his father, on the authority of his grandfather (may Allah be pleased with them), that for istisqa’, the Prophet would say: “O Allah, provide water for Your slaves and Your cattle, display Your mercy and give life to Your dead lands.” (Abu Dawud)
It is preferred for the one who is making this supplication to raise his hands with the back of his hands toward the sky. Muslim records from Anas that the Prophet (peace be upon him) would point with the back of his hands during istisqa’.
It is also preferred, upon seeing the rain, to say: “O Allah, make it a beneficial rain” and he should uncover part of his body to the rain. On the other hand, if one fears that there is too much rain, one should say: “O Allah give us mercy and do not give us punishment, calamities, destruction or flooding. O Allah, make it upon the woods, farms and trees. Make it around us and not upon us.” All of this is authentic and confirmed from the Prophet (peace be upon him).
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Source: Quoted with slight modifications from Sayyid Sabiq’s Fiqh As-Sunnah.
