28 September 2024

The East London Mosque hosted its ninth annual #VisitMyMosqueDay, focusing on the crucial topic of Environment and Islam. The open day offered a unique opportunity for people of all faiths and backgrounds to explore how Islamic teachings intersect with environmental stewardship, as outlined in the Qur’an.

The Visit My Mosque initiative, coordinated by the Muslim Council of Britain, invites mosques across the UK to open their doors to the wider community, offering a welcoming space for dialogue, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding. This year, the East London Mosque spotlighted the environmental challenges facing the world today, and how Islamic principles guide the preservation and protection of the planet.

Junaid Ahmed, CEO of the East London Mosque, commented: “In Islam, we are taught to be custodians of the Earth, and this year’s Visit My Mosque event offers an excellent opportunity to discuss how faith can inspire environmental responsibility.

“We are excited to welcome our community and neighbours to engage in this important conversation, learning how the Qur’an and Hadith encourage sustainable living. As one of the UK’s largest and most active mosques, it is our duty to not only serve as a religious hub but to also lead in raising awareness of global issues, including the environment.”

The open day included a special exhibition with honey sampling from the Mosque’s beehives, guided tours, and special talks highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship from an Islamic perspective. Attendees had the opportunity to observe midday prayers, engage with staff, and partake in discussions on faith-based environmentalism.

Sufia Alam, Head of Programmes and the Maryam Centre, added: “We are living in a time where the environmental crisis requires urgent attention from all corners of society. This event showcases the role Islamic teachings play in encouraging sustainable habits and reducing our ecological footprint. Our newly launched, Faith in Environment project helps both Muslims and non-Muslims understand that caring for the planet is an integral part of our faith and something that unites us all as a community.”

In addition to exploring environmental themes, the event provided space for informal discussions over tea and refreshments, where visitors can ask questions and learn more about the mosque’s broader community work.