MCC East Bay

Community Iftars
2024-03-16 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-23 19:25 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | CA
For the first three Saturdays in Ramadan, join your fasting brothers and sisters for MCC’s community iftar and stay afterward for worship—limited space. RSVP is required for this Iftar (registration opens Saturday before each iftar).

Join us to pray and break bread in the community. Capped at 300 guests each week.

A nominal $3/person registration is required to have the right amount of food available. Please join the waitlist once the Iftar goes full.

*Children under the age of 5 do not need a ticket.*

MCC is a green masjid. Please bring your water bottles to reduce the use of disposable cups.

Please cancel your RSVP at any time if you cannot make the Iftar so your fasting brother & sister can join us. Message operations@mccastbay.org

– Saturday, March 16: Register at https://mcceastbay.org/iftar-1 (opens at 5 p.m. on Monday, March 11th)

– Saturday, March 23: Register at https://mcceastbay.org/iftar-2 (opens at 5 p.m. on Monday, March 18th)

– Saturday, March 30: Register at https://mcceastbay.org/iftar-3 (opens at 5 p.m. on Monday, March 25th)

MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never keep a person from attending its events and activities. To request a financial waiver to attend, please message scholarship@mcceastbay.org

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Teenage Girls Qiyam with Sr. Duha Jalali
2024-03-16 23:00 - 2024-03-17 06:30 | CA
For teenage girls ages 12 to 19: After the nightly Taraweeh ends on Friday night, join us for a night of Qiyam led by Sr. Duha Jalali to connect with Allah (swt) and gain the blessings of this blessed month.Saturday, March 16 | After Taraweeh prayers end (~11 p.m.) until Fajr (6:30 a.m.) | MCC Conference Room | $5/person; capped at 50 | Girls ages 12 to 19 | Regiser at mcceastbay.org/girls-qiyam

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Weekly Ramadan Women's Dhikr Circle | Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi
2024-03-17 10:30 - 12:00, 2024-03-24 10:30 - 12:00 | CA
Join Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi every Sunday in Ramadan (except the last one) for weekly in-person women-only dhikr circles filled with recitation, reflection, and Salawat.

This Sisters Healing & Du’ah Circle supports sisters experiencing grief/loss, marital challenges, parenting challenges, health challenges, caring for elderly parents/loved ones, isolation, etc.

10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Sundays, 3/17, 3/24, & 3/31 | Conference Room | Free; no registration needed

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

– ‘Purification of the Heart Series: (Women): https://mcceastbay.org/muslimah-purification

– ‘Purification of the Heart Series: (Adults): https://mcceastbay.org/heart-purification

– ‘Purification of the Heart Series (Teens): https://mcceastbay.org/purification

– ‘Agenda to Change our Condition’ Series: https://mcceastbay.org/agenda

– ‘Modern Muslim Parenting’ Series: https://mcceastbay.org/islamic-parenting

Schedule

– Welcome

– Recitation of Ratib al-Shahr wird

– Recitation of Surah Yasin

– Dhikr

– Salawat

– Short reflection (khatira)

About Ustadha Hosai Mojaddidi:Hosai Mojaddidi is the co-founder of mentalhealth4muslims.com, where she advocates for and writes about various mental health-related topics tailored for Muslims. She has served the American-Muslim community for nearly 20 years as an activist, writer/editor, mediator, interfaith organizer, and public speaker, covering a variety of topics, including women’s issues, marriage/family, education, and self-development, interfaith bridge-building, spirituality, etc.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading, writing, blogging via social media (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter), doing arts and crafts, visiting gourmet coffee shops, and exploring the countless beautiful parks, beaches, and nature preserves throughout Northern California where she lives with her husband, two sons, and fish named Max.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Ramadan Storytime | Khala Sahar
2024-03-17 12:00 - 13:00 | CA
Over the first two Sundays in Ramadan, Khala Sahar reads and entertains our young children in an engaging hour for ages 2 to 10 with a fun Islamic theme.12 p.m. to 1 p.m. | Sundays, 3/17, & 3/24 | Conference Room | In-person only, no live-stream option | Free; no registration needed

– More Sister Sahar: https://mcceastbay.org/sahar

– More sessions for young Muslim children: https://mcceastbay.org/children

About the Facilitator

Sister Sahar grew up in Southern California and earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California – Irvine (UCI). She went on to work as a behavioral therapist for autistic children for many years. After having her own two boys, she dedicated her time to raising and homeschooling them. Sahar enjoys working with children and is inspired by their love and curiosity for life and Allah’s creation.

Khala Sahar’s Book Raffle: Win a free book! On a blank piece of paper, write your name, age, and 10 books read between each story time (or print out the book log to fill out). Bring your book log to storytime and enter the raffle. For every 10 books read, enter your name an additional time! The more you read, the more chances you have to win! (Note: books can be read independently, aloud by someone to the child, or an audiobook). Print the log: https://mcceastbay.org/log

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Iftar for New Muslims
2024-03-17 18:30 - 20:30 | CA
For our convert sisters and brothers in the Bay Area only, whether this is your first Ramadan or fiftieth, join us for a memorable Iftar just for you. Bring your family & close friends as we celebrate this blessed month of Ramadan together.

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. | Sunday, March 17 | Free; rsvp required | MCC Convert Care Team | RSVP at https://mcceastbay.org/convert-iftar

Questions? mentorship@mcceastbay.org

– How MCC supports reverts: https://mcceastbay.org/convert-care

– Recordings of educational talks for reverts playlist: https://mcceastbay.org/after-shahada

– Shahadah moments at the MCC: https://mcceastbay.org/shahada

Learn more about how the MCC supports new(er) brothers & sisters in faith in the Bay Area here and watch past recordings of talks here.

MCC '24 Singles Iftar Week One
2024-03-17 19:15 - 20:30 | CA
MCC is honored to host a nightly dinner for all our single brothers & sisters.

The singles Iftar is suspended only on Saturdays and joins the community-wide Iftar.

The singles Iftar space is in the room next to the kitchen. Map: https://mcceastbay.org/facility-map

Singles Iftar registration for the new week opens at noon on Saturdays:

– Starting Saturday, March 9: RSVP for Tuesday, March 12 to Sunday, March 17 at https://mcceastbay.org/singles-1

– Starting Saturday, March 16: RSVP for Monday, March 18 to Sunday, March 24 at https://mcceastbay.org/singles-2

– Starting Saturday, March 23: RSVP for Monday, March 25 to Sunday, March 31 at https://mcceastbay.org/singles-3

– Starting Saturday, March 30: RSVP for Monday, April 1 to Tuesday, April 9: https://mcceastbay.org/singles-4

RSVP is required each Saturday for the Iftars you plan to attend that week. Nominal $3/person charge. Food is served in takeout boxes to make it easier to take leftovers home.

Free. Optional donation

– Ramadan timetable: https://mcceastbay.org/timetable

– More about events and activities in Ramadan 2024 at mcceastbay.org/ramadan

Al Ghazali for Children | Sr. Aisha Gray Henry
2024-03-18 16:00 - 17:00, 2024-03-25 16:00 - 17:00 | CA
For children ages 5 to 12: Children’s Author Aisha Gray Henry, the charismatic founder of the Ghazali’s Children Project, talks to our children about the timeless teachings of Al-Ghazali in this four-part Ramadan workshop series.

This Ramadan, children will be read a story from the Al-Ghazali series (book 24), which talks about fasting of the tongue, what we say, and what we listen to.

Mondays | 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. PST | Free | Register at mcceastbay.org/ghazali-workshop

Monday, March 11Monday, March 18Monday, March 25Monday, April 1

Sponsored by Fons Vitae and MCC East Bay.

More Sister Virginia Gray Henry: https://mcceastbay.org/aisha

Parents are encouraged to join their children. Children of any age may join. The sessions are especially recommended for children 5 to 12. Sr. Aisha also highly encourages parents to have “The Book of Knowledge for Children” on hand during these sessions. Purchase the series here.

Shaykh Hamza Yusuf says about this book: “This work can help our Muslim children have a more humane and universal understanding of the ethics and teachings of Islam through Imam al-Ghazali. I believe the work is highly relevant and very likely life-altering for those who will be exposed to it early.”

Watch Sister Aisha’s visit to the MCC Sunday School here.

About the Author

Aisha Gray-Henry is the Founder and Director of the charitable foundation and publishing company Fons Vitae. Fons Vitae is currently engaged in the monumental task of bringing out Ghazali’s Ihya in readable English for parents and teachers and adapting it to accommodate children’s workbooks, school curricula, and an instructional DVD. The Book of Knowledge and The Principles of the Creed educational sets are available and used internationally, with Purity and Prayer nearing completion. Included is a children’s interactive website, HTTP://GhazaliChildren.org, a pilot school project, and a prison program. Translations into Urdu, Arabic, and Malay are underway. The Fons Vitae Ghazali Project has been launched with great acclaim in Morocco, Canada, Indonesia, England, and the USA.

Who is Al Ghazali?

An alchemist is a person who can create gold from base metals. It is a quest as old as legend. The truth is that alchemy exists, but not of base metals, but of the human heart.

Imam al-Ghazali (1058-1111 CE) is probably one of the greatest alchemists ever. And in an epoch where the human condition is in its direst straits, never more has there been a need for the chemistry of Imam al-Ghazali.

A theologian, jurist, philosopher, mystic, and polymath, Abu Hamid Muhammad ibn Muhammad al-Ghazali is not only ranked amongst Islam’s finest scholars but is one of mankind’s finest students of the human condition. Known as Algazel to the medieval world, he was born in Tus, the Khorasan province of ancient Persia.

When he had the academic world at his feet in his early thirties, he spurned fame and fortune to go into a mode of self-denial and spiritual seclusion that lasted for many years.

Already an acknowledged master of Holy Law, he re-entered society as a practiced Sufi – a true gnostic. A genius, Imam al-Ghazali was fully proficient in Greek and Roman philosophy, and he debunked its central tenets, proving that Revelation was always going to be superior to human reason. Human thinking could never evolve, he wrote, in an existential vacuum.

All this prompted him to write his magnum opus, the Ihya ‘Ulumad-Din (the Revival of the Religious Sciences). Today, it is regarded as one of the classic works on the human psyche. In the Ihya the author explains how to turn one’s base instincts and desires into the golden ideal.

Today’s modern world – devolved of spirituality and fraught with destructive ills such as materialism, multi-national greed, and violence – needs people like Imam al-Ghazali. This is because Imam al-Ghazali teaches a way to balance the body and soul, thus allowing us to reconcile modernity with spirituality in its broadest and most universal sense. (Source: Dome Publishers)

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

MCC '24 Singles Iftar Week Two
2024-03-18 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-19 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-20 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-21 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-22 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-24 19:20 - 20:30 | CA

Women’s Seerah Bookclub (virtual) | Ustadha Leila Fakira
2024-03-19 18:30 - 20:00, 2024-03-26 18:30 - 20:00 | MCC East Bay, 5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
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. We are currently reading from, “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.

Event Details:

The discussion takes place every Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a break in Ramadan ’24.

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

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

Youth Kahf Recitation
2024-03-22 12:00 - 12:30 | CA
Listen to a young MCC Hifz/Advanced Qur’an student studying with Qari Amar Bellaha recite the important Friday Surah al-Kahf with English subtitles at noon each Friday in Ramadan ’24.

– March 15: Zidan Khan

These recitations are part of the MCC Mic Check series, a teen-initiated effort when a youth in the East Bay expresses their love for the Qur’an by reciting their favorite verses with melody and beauty. The Muslim Student Association (MSA) at California High School in San Ramon curated this series.

– Watch the recitation on YouTube at mcceastbay.org/live

– Watch the recitation on Facebook at mcceastbay.org/facebook

– Mic Check Youth Qur’anic recitations at https://mcceastbay.org/mic-check

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Reciters in Ramadan ’24:

– March 15: Zidan Khan

– March 22: Sidi Umair Shafi

– March 29:

– April 5:

Reciters in Ramadan ’23:

– March 24: Muhammed Constantino

– March 31: Muhammad Rasyiid Prihardono

– April 7: Muhriz Munir

– April 14: Ahmad Prihardono

Reciters in Ramadan ’22:

– Rayhan Ali: https://youtu.be/b8aPeterrE0

– Haanee Badal: https://youtu.be/gVMDtxrfIlw

– Umair Shafi: https://youtu.be/JwRnFcdJ6LM

– Zacharia Hamze: https://youtu.be/BUSLlXwlx3g

Reciters in Ramadan ’21:

– Omar Ali: https://youtu.be/bcAnFhVm1w4

– Ahmed Hussayni: https://youtu.be/6_56HU_Ngow

– Yusra Constantino: https://youtu.be/EIn59jQibTM

– Taha Abdullah: https://youtu.be/eU4K3EKB6cE

Surah al-Kahf (Arabic: الكهف, meaning: The Cave) is the 18th chapter (sūrah) of the Quran with 110 verses (āyāt). It is considered by many to be among the most important Qur’anic Surahs due to its doctrine, spirituality, guidance, and storytelling.

Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever recites Surat al-Kahf on Friday will have a light between this Friday and the next.” -As-Sunan al-Kubra

Jumu’ah Services @ MCC & Dublin Library
2024-03-22 13:30 - 16:00 | CA
For MCC’s four Jumu’ah services on Friday, March 22, 2024:

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

Ustadh Feraidoon Mojadedi delivers this sermon at MCC.

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

– Hafiz Yaseen Mahmood delivers this sermon at Dublin Library

2:30 p.m. to 2:50 p.m.

– Sidi Qur’an Hodge delivers this sermon at MCC.

2:40 p.m. – 3:10 p.m.

– Hafiz Yaseen Mahmood delivers the sermon at Dublin Library

3:40 p.m. – 4 p.m.

– Imam Bilal ibn Yusuf delivers this sermon at MCC.

Please attend at 2:30 or 3:40 p.m. @ MCC to avoid heavier first-service congestion whenever possible. Please note that the former HP lot (now Pleasanton School District) is no longer available to our congregation. Please come to the first and fourth Jumuah to ease up parking congestion or attend the parallel satellite prayer at 1:40 p.m. at Dublin Library: https://mcceastbay.org/satellite-jumuah-library-update

– Virtually watch the three MCC sermons from home: https://mcceastbay.org/live

– More Ustadh Feraidoon: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/feraidoon

– More Hafiz Yaseen: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/yaseen

– More Sidi Qur’an Hodge: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/quran-hodge

– More Imam Bilal: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/bilal

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

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Youth Halaqa & Iftar | Sidi Mahdy Amine
2024-03-22 17:30 - 20:30 | CA
For our middle and high school girls & boys (ages 12 to 18), please join us on the first three Fridays in Ramadan for a program just for you: pray Asr in the congregation, listen to a special guest youth halaqa speaker, and enjoy a yummy dinner for Iftar.

Stick around and pray Isha/Taraweeh at 9 p.m.

Pre-halaqa attendance is required. Teens may not come for Iftar only.

– Friday, March 15: 5:45 p.m. Asr prayer, check-in at 5:30 p.m., halaqa begins at 6 p.m. Maghrib at 7:19 p.m.RSVP at https://mcceastbay.org/youth-1 (opens on Mon., March 11 @ 5 p.m.)

– Friday, March 22: 5:45 p.m. Asr prayer, check-in at 5:30 p.m., halaqa begins at 6 p.m. Maghrib at 7:25 p.m.RSVP at https://mcceastbay.org/youth-2 (opens on Mon., March 18)

– Friday, March 29: 6 p.m. Asr prayer, check-in at 5:30 p.m.. halaqa begins at 5:45 p.m.; Maghrib at 7:32 p.m.RSVP at https://mcceastbay.org/youth-3 (opens on Mon., March 25)

The schedule is:

5:30 p.m. – Registration + nametags5:45 p.m. – Asr prayers6 p.m. – Introduction6:10 p.m. – Speaker gives talk6:30 – Facilitated conversation + QnA6:45 – Fun Game/Activity7:00 – Maghreb Athan

Nominal $5/youth cost to have an accurate number of attendees. MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attending any event held at MCC. For a code, please message scholarship@mcceastbay.org.

Iftar times in Ramadan 2024 at mcceastbay.org/timetable

The youth halaqa is held in the MCC Conference Room. The Iftars are held in the Banquet Hall.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Kids Ramadan '24 Craft Activities | Khala Emira Mustafa
2024-03-23 13:30 | CA
For ages 4 to 12, join Sister Emira Mustafa for craft-filled Saturday afternoons this Ramadan, where our kids create beautiful crafts.

These crafts are detailed and made of quality supplies that help achieve lasting bonding memories of Ramadan with your kids for years to come, insha’Allah.

Saturdays, March 23, March 30, & April 6 | 1:30 p.m. | Ages 4 to 12 | Location TBD @ MCC | $25/session or $70 for all three | Register at mcceastbay.org/ramadan-kids

Activity on Saturday, March 23:

– Paint by Number

Activity on Saturday, March 30:

– DIY Glow in the Dark Tasbeeh Kit

Activity on Saturday, April 6:

– Eid Card Kits

Note: No refunds are allowed due to the prior purchase of materials specific to each program. However, you can transfer or gift your spot to someone else.

Those unable to attend in person can prepurchase a take-home set for the month. All 3 weeks of activities plus a 4th week activity and a bonus activity. Pick up from MCC on March 10.

These are parent-and-me activities. Parents are required to stay and monitor children throughout the event. Only registered children receive materials for the projects. Sessions are capped at 60 children per session.

MCC has a standing policy that financial need should never hold a person back from attaining spiritual or practical knowledge from any event or class held within the community center. To request a financial waiver, message scholarship@mcceastbay.org

About the Facilitator:

Sister Emira Mustafa is the founder of Craft E Muslims, a business with a mission to creatively connect the heart and mind through fun, innovative methods.

She has published two workbooks available on Amazon titled “Islamic Themed Fall Festival Activity Kit” and “Practically Preparing for Ramadan.” Her Etsy page features many Islamic-themed crafting kits sure to inspire a love of learning within our community.

Here is one of her crafting videos on how to make a Rustic Eid Twinkle Light Banner: https://youtu.be/J8xIJOTy5dM

– More Sr. Emira: https://mcceastbay.org/emira

– More sessions for young Muslim children: https://mcceastbay.org/children

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

MYNA Youth Teen Qiyam
2024-03-23 13:30 - 2024-03-24 06:15 | CA
This Spring, Muslim youth nationwide can join MYNA for spring camp and explore the new theme, “IQRA”! Youth will deeply dive into the importance of the Holy Quran, the word of Allah SWT, first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in the blessed month of Ramadan.

Because this cycle of spring camps falls during Ramadan, MYNA presents a new structure to empower youth to make the most of this beloved month, featuring heartfelt lectures, engaging workshops, Quran circles, youth-led tahajjud, and more!Saturday, March 23 – Sunday, March 24 | 1:30 p.m. to 6:15 a.m. | MCC Conference Room | Boys & Girls Ages 12-18 | Limited registration available; register at mcceastbay.org/myna

“The reason I call MYNA a breath of fresh air is because you become a better person within that week that you are with positive beings. You learn new things about Islam, people, and also about yourself. MYNA has truly created a new perspective for me. Without MYNA I wouldn’t know how to communicate with others and be a leader. Thanks to MYNA for being a breath of fresh air for myself and everyone who comes to it.”

— MYNA Camper

Camp Guidelines

As a Muslim Organization, we ask that all campers and participants in our events follow the rules we have prescribed through the Quran and ways of the Prophet (PBUH). Please read both of these documents before arriving at camp.

DRESS CODE: Check out the MYNA dress code here.

RULES AND REGULATIONS: Here are the rules campers must follow during camp.

For FAQ, please visit: https://www.myna.org/campfaq

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Ramadan Storytime | Khala Sahar
2024-03-24 12:00 - 13:00 | CA
Over the first two Sundays in Ramadan, Khala Sahar reads and entertains our young children in an engaging hour for ages 2 to 10 with a fun Islamic theme.12 p.m. to 1 p.m. | Sundays, 3/17, & 3/24 | Conference Room | Free; no registration needed | Join in person or watch live at mcceastbay.org/live

– More Sister Sahar: https://mcceastbay.org/sahar

– More sessions for young Muslim children: https://mcceastbay.org/children

About the Facilitator

Sister Sahar grew up in Southern California and earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California – Irvine (UCI). She went on to work as a behavioral therapist for autistic children for many years. After having her own two boys, she dedicated her time to raising and homeschooling them. Sahar enjoys working with children and is inspired by their love and curiosity for life and Allah’s creation.

Khala Sahar’s Book Raffle: Win a free book! On a blank piece of paper, write your name, age, and 10 books read between each story time (or print out the book log to fill out). Bring your book log to storytime and enter the raffle. For every 10 books read, enter your name an additional time! The more you read, the more chances you have to win! (Note: books can be read independently, aloud by someone to the child, or an audiobook). Print the log: https://mcceastbay.org/log

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Interfaith Iftar: Breaking Bread with Chef Lisa Ahmad
2024-03-24 18:00 - 20:30 | CA
Please join us this Sunday evening for an Iftar dinner experience as we observe the holy month of Ramadan and help create a better society by learning about one another. Before dinner, we will be joined by famed Bay Area chef and restaurateur Lisa Ahmad. She shares her heartfelt and inspiring story of celebrating Ramadan as a chef and how she founded Fremont, California’s renowned Mirchi Cafe.

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Sunday, March 24 | Lynnewood United Methodist Church, 4444 Black Ave, Pleasanton, CA 94566 | Register at: HTTP://mcceastbay.org/interfaith-iftar

Space is limited at this interfaith Iftar, which is graciously hosted in the Fellowship Hall at Lynnewood UMC. MCC congregation members: please attend ONLY if they accompany a friend, co-worker, or neighbor of another faith or nonfaith.

Here is an interview with Lisa: https://diffusedcongruence.podbean.com/e/episode-83-lisa-ahmed/

Iftar means ‘fast-breaking,’ and it is an integral part of the Muslim community’s life during the sacred month of Ramadan. Muslims break their daily Ramadan fast with a community dinner called an “iftar.”

Please RSVP your attendance so we can make sure to have adequate food.

Interfaith Iftar Event Schedule

– 6:15 p.m. – Arrival & Socializing

– 6:30 p.m. – The program begins with Lisa Ahmad

– 7:37 p.m. – Call to Prayer and Breaking of Fast with dates and water

– 7:40 p.m. – Prayer at Sunset in Prayer Hall (Maghrib) followed by Iftar Dinner in Banquet Fellowship Hall

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

– Here is the 2017: “What Ramadan Means to Me:” https://youtu.be/tiJgEJT-DM8

– Here is the 2018 “Why Faith Matters:” https://youtu.be/5J8rL9Hepog

– Here is the 2019 “Loving Across the Difference”: https://youtu.be/JzK7JexOxLw

– Here is the 2022: “Loving Across the Difference”: https://youtu.be/Hb8_0IUwCBU

– Here is the 2023: “Moses in Islamic & Jewish Tradition”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DU_na-MYy9Y&t

The Holy month of Ramadan

“Iftar” is the fast-breaking meal observed each evening at sundown during the holy month of Ramadan. The Interfaith Iftar Dinner allows the whole community to join our Muslim friends for an evening meal as they break their Ramadan fast.

Ramadan in America

Ramadan is about renewing a Muslim’s commitment to God and undergoing a physical and spiritual training program to increase intimacy with his or her faith.

The reward for a successful Ramadan is no less than the forgiveness of all sins. Imagine starting with a new slate clean with God! So, in addition to all the improvements Ramadan can make in one’s character and health, we get the slate erased and can start over. (All our good deeds remain; it’s only the bad deeds that disappear). With all these benefits derived from the observance of this blessed month, is it any wonder that Ramadan is the best time of the year for every Muslim?

A surprising number of people of other faiths also observe the Ramadan fast here in North America. They recognize the disciplining effects of the fast and use their time to come closer to God. Every year, Islamic centers receive calls from non-Muslims asking how the fast is performed and where they can get a month-long chart showing the start and end times of each day’s fast. Employers and schools are also beginning to make accommodations for the needs of their Muslim workers and students.

Because the month of Ramadan falls about a week earlier every year, as the lunar calendar rotates backward through the solar, Muslims experience differing conditions in their fast. The fasting period is more extended in the summer and shorter in the winter.There are also occasions to fast throughout the rest of the year. The Prophet Muhammad’s habit was to fast twice weekly, Mondays and Thursdays.

Children in Ramadan

Children will be present during the prayers, whether participating, watching, or, in the case of younger children, imitating the movements of their elders. Their presence continues the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, who was very tender toward children. The Prophet sometimes carried one of his grandchildren on his shoulder while leading the prayer and was also known to shorten the prayer if he heard a baby cry.

More about Ramadan

There are no special preparations to begin the month of Ramadan. Some Muslims fast in anticipation of the month. Muslims understand that it is going to be a month of intense religious devotion and a time of self-denial: no food, drink, sex, profanity, fighting, or lying allowed from first light to sundown. The main components of the month consist of two meals: one before sunrise and the other at sunset.

One particular night of Ramadan has special significance. It is the exact night the Qur’anic revelation was first revealed to Muhammad in 610 C.E. It is known as Laylat ul Qadr, or the Night of Power. According to the Prophet Muhammad, it falls on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan. Many Muslims stay up all night seeking the Lord’s forgiveness and guidance.

Thank you for joining us.

The Iftar, or “fast-breaking,” is an integral part of the Muslim community’s life during the sacred month of Ramadan. At sunset every day of the month, Muslims gather in homes and mosques to break their fast together. This communal meal comes after a day of self-discipline in which Muslims abstain from food and drink and make an extra effort to avoid impatience and harsh words. After eating, Muslims will spend the evening seeking the pleasure of God through contemplation and prayer.

The Islamic Greeting

The Islamic greeting frequently heard in the mosque is the Arabic phrase, “as-salaam alaykum” (“peace be with you”). It is returned by saying, “wa alaykum as-salaam (“and with you be peace”).”What is Ramadan?

Ramadan (pronounced rom-a-don) is the ninth month of the lunar calendar used by Muslims. This month is special because the Qur’an (Islamic scripture) was first revealed in this month. During Ramadan, all healthy adult Muslims fast by abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset. They also strive to abstain from all evil speech and actions. It is recommended that each Muslim read the entire Qur’an during this month.

When will the fast be broken?

At sunset, the adhan (call to prayer) will be made. This call to prayer is always recited melodiously in the Arabic language. The adhan signals Muslims to break their fasts, often done with the traditional three dates and water. Before sitting down to a meal, Muslims stand together for the sunset prayer, one of five prayers Muslims must make daily.

The Call to Prayer (translation)

God is Most Great; God is Most GreatGod is Most Great; God is Most GreatI bear witness that there is no god but (the One) GodI bear witness that there is no god but (the One) GodI bear witness that Muhammad is a Messenger of GodI bear witness that Muhammad is a Messenger of GodHasten to prayer, Hasten to prayerHasten to success, Hasten to successGod is Most Great; God is Most GreatThere is no god but (the One) God

The Sunset Prayer After the call to prayer, Muslims will hasten to the mats to line up for congregational prayer. They will form tight ranks, symbolizing unity and equality within the Muslim community. Men and women form separate lines for the prayer to maintain modesty and concentration during the physical movements of standing, bowing, and prostration. Their separation does not indicate any relative superiority or inferiority.The prayer begins as the Imam, or prayer leader, raises his hands with the words “Allahu Akbar (“God is the Most Great”)” From that moment, worshippers are required to devote total concentration to the prayer as they follow the words and actions of the Imam.

The Imam first recites the opening chapter of the Qur’an (entitled al-fatiha) aloud and follows this with more Qur’anic verses of his choosing. After the recitation, worshippers bow and prostrate in unison, silently glorifying God.

When will the fast be broken?

The prayer ends as worshippers turn their faces to either side with the Arabic words “Peace be with you and the mercy of God.” Some of the congregation will then stand to leave, while others will add their devotions.

Al-Faitha (Translation)The Qur’an’s opening chapter is akin to the “Lord’s Prayer”

In the name of God, the Compassionate, the MercifulPraise be to God, Lord of the Worlds,The Most Compassionate, the Most MercifulRuler of the Day of JudgmentOnly You do we worship, Only You we ask for helpShow us the straight path

The path of those whom You have favored

Not that of those who earn Your anger nor those who go astray.

The IftarAfter completing the sunset prayer, Muslims join in a joyous and nutritious meal. Because Islam is a global religion, many special Ramadan foods are enjoyed by different ethnic groups: soups, salads, rice dishes, meats, and sweets.During Ramadan, Muslims begin their meals “O God, for you I fasted, and in You I believe, and with Your provision I broke my fast. After eating, Muslims say “al-hamdu lillah (“Thanks be to God”).”

The Night PrayerThe final of the five daily prayers is said as night falls. Like the four other prayers, it is preceded by the adhan and is carried out in the congregation.

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

Divorced & Widowed Family Iftar
2024-03-24 19:00 - 21:00 | CA
For our divorced and widowed sisters and brothers in the Bay Area, join us for an Iftar! Please bring your family!

7:25 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. | Sunday, March 24 | Free; registration required | Conference Room & Banquet Hall | Register at: https://mcceastbay.org/our-iftar

Cosponsored by Wasilah Connections & MCC East Bay

This Iftar is only for families impacted by divorce or widowers.

Schedule:

– 7 p.m. – Check-in begins, and seat with dates/water in

– 7:27 p.m. – Maghrib prayer in Prayer Hall

– 7:40 p.m. – Iftar in the Banquet Hall & Conference Room

– 9:15 p.m. – Isha/Taraweeh prayers

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org

– Talks cosponsored with Wasilah Connections: https://mcceastbay.org/wasilah

– MCC’s divorce resource page: https://mcceastbay.org/divorce

Wasilah’s MissionOur mission is to provide holistic support for individuals facing mental, emotional, financial, and personal challenges by building, facilitating, and connecting individuals to resources to strategically provide short and long-term solutions to overcome their challenges. Vision Our vision is to create a movement to cultivate a collective community mindset of helping the most vulnerable populations within our community achieve success and wellness at all levels of their lives.

– More Wasilah Connections: https://mcceastbay.org/wasilah

Learn more and support this organization at https://wasilahconnect.org

MCC '24 Singles Iftar Week Three
2024-03-25 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-26 19:20 - 20:30, 2024-03-27 19:20 - 20:30 | CA
MCC is honored to host a nightly dinner for all our single brothers & sisters.

The singles Iftar is suspended only on Saturdays and joins the community-wide Iftar except for the last Saturday (April 6).

The singles Iftar space is in the room next to the kitchen. Map: https://mcceastbay.org/facility-map

Singles Iftar registration for the new week opens at noon on Saturdays:

– Starting Saturday, March 9: RSVP for Tuesday, March 12 to Sunday, March 17 at https://mcceastbay.org/singles-1

– Starting Saturday, March 16: RSVP for Monday, March 18 to Sunday, March 24 at https://mcceastbay.org/singles-2

– Starting Saturday, March 23: RSVP for Monday, March 25 to Sunday, March 31 at https://mcceastbay.org/singles-3

– Starting Saturday, March 30: RSVP for Monday, April 1 to Tuesday, April 9: https://mcceastbay.org/singles-4

RSVP is required each Saturday for the Iftars you plan to attend that week. Nominal $3/person charge. Food is served in takeout boxes to make it easier to take leftovers home.

Free. Optional donation

– Ramadan timetable: https://mcceastbay.org/timetable

– More about events and activities in Ramadan 2024 at mcceastbay.org/ramadan
