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A Mosque In America

A Visit to
A Mosque
In America

Driving along I-75 in Cincinnati OH, all eyes are drawn as a magnet to the unique building with its golden dome and unusual architecture.   The Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati is located at the base of a residential street in a neighborhood in West Chester.   The center houses an Islamic school, a community center, an international school and the Mosque, which is the place of worship for Muslims.
There are many misconceptions regarding Islam and Muslims.   In reality most Muslims are non-Arabs and most live outside the Middle East.   There are five million Muslims in the United States.   There are an estimated 10,000-15,000 Muslims in the Greater Cincinnati area.  
Passing through the wrought iron gate, my eyes rivet to the cluster of flags to the right, one to reflect each of the 49-predominately Muslim countries. The United States flag is not among these as America is predominately Christian with Muslim being the third largest religion.   Because America is our country and we are American Muslims, the American flag flows freely in the wind in a spot all its own.  

               

Next my gaze is drawn upward to the golden dome and crescent moon covering the Mosque.   Many non-Muslims are of the belief that Muslims pray or worship a "moon god".   We do not.   We believe in the same God as Christians and Jews.   We believe in the ‘oneness of God', the Creator of Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.   The crescent moon reflects our practice of adhering to the lunar calendar, or God's calendar, rather than the Georgian calendar, or man's calendar.   This is why many Mosques will have a crescent moon topping the domes.    
Each of the buildings is individual yet connected by covered walkways known by all who enter here as ‘bridges'.   The Islamic Center community building holds classes for Muslims and non-Muslims alike who wish to learn more about the religion.   It also offers activities such as sports activities, picnics, weddings,...