Imam’s Message to ICCR

AS SALAAM ALAIKUM,

PEACE BE WITH YOU,

It is no surprise that Muslims in America are facing grave challenges. Our religion teaches us that in times of challenge we ought not to despair or panic.

The Quran tells us,

“DO NOT DESPAIR OF THE MERCY OF GOD” ~ QURAN 39:53

Prophet Muhammad said,

"IF THE FINAL HOUR COMES WHILE YOU HAVE A PALM-CUTTING IN YOUR HANDS AND IT IS POSSIBLE TO PLANT IT BEFORE THE HOUR COMES, YOU SHOULD PLANT IT." ~ AL-ADAB AL-MUFRAD

The Quranic and Prophetic guidance makes it imperative that as Muslims, and especially in times of challenges, we ought to be optimistic, arm ourselves with hope, and see opportunities of improvement in every trial or tribulation. After all, as believers, we are certain that all is from God, and to God belongs the entire affair.

“TO ALLAH BELONGS THE COMMAND BEFORE AND AFTER” ~ QURAN 30:4

As an Imam for the Islamic center of Cedar Rapids I take a lot of pride in leading the community. But at the same time I am fully aware of the great responsibility and sensibility that come with leading a community with a deep rooted history and legacy in the American heartland.  Therefore, I aspire to organize our priorities in a way that reflects our beliefs.

My first and foremost priority is make sure the mosque is always open to establishing the five daily prayers. Allah says in the Quran,

“INDEED, I AM ALLAH. THERE IS NO DEITY EXCEPT ME, SO WORSHIP ME AND ESTABLISH PRAYER FOR MY REMEMBRANCE.” ~ QURAN 20:14

Next in line is spreading sound knowledge of Islam. Alongside this knowledge is an understanding of applying it in a manner relevant to our time and place. Without knowledge, the only two options left is either radicalization or abandoning the faith altogether. To ensure an equal access to this knowledge for all members of the community we put an emphasis on the relevancy and accessibility of the weekly Friday sermons (khutbahs).

I am all about empowering youth, women, and all other otherwise marginalized groups. Our highschool students group is active and meets on regular basis to discuss relevant topics and take the initiative for many social services projects.

Of course, outreach and ensuring excellent relations with all faith, and even faithless, communities in Cedar Rapids and beyond occupies a fair share on my list of priorities.

As an Imam, I try to make myself available to the entire community. I hope that by reading my message you now have a good understanding of my philosophy and priorities in leading this community forward. Comments and questions are always welcomed by me.

WA SALAAM,

SINCERELY,

IMAM HASSAN SELIM