The open house, held on Saturday and Sunday, provided visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the mosque’s prayer hall, library, and other areas.
Imam Muhammad Elshaikh emphasized the importance of the event in allowing people to learn about Islam directly from Muslims. “This is the day where we open the mosque to all people from the community of Windsor — Muslims, non-Muslims — everyone is welcome,” said Elshaikh.
“They can learn about the teachings of Islam and what the Islamic faith is,” CTV News quoted him as saying.
Attendees were encouraged to ask questions about various topics, including Islamic beliefs, interfaith relations, and controversial issues surrounding the religion.
Imam Elshaikh noted that many people are often surprised to discover that Islam recognizes religious figures commonly associated with Christianity. “Most people are shocked to learn that we believe in Jesus and Moses as much as we believe in Muhammad [PBUH],” he explained.
Read More:
The open house also provided a forum for discussing more contentious subjects, such as women’s rights and negative stereotypes about violence in the name of religion. “Sadly, we live in a world where the Internet spreads misconceptions and falsehoods about many communities, not just Muslims,” Elshaikh said.
In addressing the topic of interfaith relations, Elshaikh highlighted Islam’s respect for other faiths and its emphasis on coexistence.
“One misconception is that Muslims are always trying to convert others. Islam does encourage outreach and sharing our faith with others, but conversion isn’t forced or pressured,” he added. “Those who wish to accept it are welcome, and those who don’t are also welcome to practice their own faith.”
Read More:
One of the most frequently raised concerns by visitors, according to Elshaikh, involved women’s rights, specifically the perception that Islam enforces segregation between men and women. “When it comes to women’s rights in Islam, it’s important to distinguish between what Islam teaches and what individual Muslims practice,” he explained, adding that Islam promotes justice and fairness for everyone.
The Windsor Mosque hosts an open house every October in recognition of Islamic Heritage Month, inviting the community to engage, learn, and ask questions in an open and welcoming environment.
Source: Agencies
