Islam is one of the fastest-growing religions in the United States, and Manchester, New Hampshire is no exception. Muslims in Manchester come from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including Arabs, Pakistanis, and other Islamic immigrants. This article will discuss the Muslim community in Manchester, their customs and beliefs, and the mosques, masjids, and Islamic centers available for worship.
The Muslim community in Manchester is relatively small, with estimates placing the number of Muslims in the city at around 1,000. Despite the small size of the community, there are several mosques and Islamic centers available for worship and community gatherings.
One of the most well-known Islamic centers in Manchester is the Islamic Society of Greater Manchester (ISGM). The ISGM was established in 1991 and has since become a hub for Muslim worship and community events. The center offers a range of services, including Friday prayers, educational programs for children and adults, and outreach events to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Another prominent mosque in Manchester is the Manchester Mosque. The Manchester Mosque was established in the 1980s and has since become a popular destination for Muslims in the area. The mosque offers five daily prayers, as well as Jummah prayers on Fridays. Additionally, the Manchester Mosque offers a range of educational programs, including Quran classes for children and adults.
In addition to these larger Islamic centers, there are also several smaller mosques and prayer spaces throughout the city. These include the Islamic Center of New England, the Darul Uloom Madania Mosque, and the Noor-Ul-Islam Society. These smaller centers offer a range of services, including daily prayers, Quran classes, and community events.
The Muslim community in Manchester is diverse and includes people from a range of ethnic backgrounds. Arab Americans make up a significant portion of the community, with many coming from countries such as Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine. Pakistani Americans are also present in the community, as are Muslims from other countries such as Somalia, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
Despite their diverse backgrounds, the Muslim community in Manchester shares a common faith and set of beliefs. Muslims in Manchester follow the five pillars of Islam, which include the declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salat), charity (Zakat), fasting during the month of Ramadan (Sawm), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj).
One of the most important aspects of Muslim culture is the importance of community and family. Muslims in Manchester often gather together for religious events and community gatherings, such as Eid celebrations, community dinners, and charitable events. These events provide an opportunity for Muslims to come together and celebrate their faith and culture.
In conclusion, the Muslim community in Manchester, New Hampshire is small but growing, and includes people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. The community has several mosques and Islamic centers available for worship and community gatherings, including the Islamic Society of Greater Manchester and the Manchester Mosque. Muslims in Manchester follow the five pillars of Islam and value community and family. The Muslim community in Manchester is an important part of the city’s cultural and religious diversity.
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