IHW honors life and work of Kay Siblani 

Thursday, 01.24.2013, 08:59pm- Arab American News

DEARBORN HEIGHTS — On Sunday, Jan. 20 the Islamic House of Wisdom here honored the life and work of Kay Siblani, the longtime executive editor of The Arab American News since 1984, when the paper first launched. 

IHW members held a breakfast in honor of Siblani, who passed away on Jan. 1 this year.  

Following the recitation from the Qur’an, Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi started the service honoring the life and legacy of Siblani, noting that she served the Muslim and Arab American communities for nearly three decades. 

He discussed her role as an editor, and her commitment to raising awareness on the health issues concerning Muslim and Arab Americans. 

He praised her book, Islam and that Muslim Patient, a guide on treating Muslims in American hospitals, saying it was educational. The guide was written more than a decade ago to remove misconceptions about Islam and Muslims.  

Imam Elahi says the book helped breakdown stereotypes about Islam. Some of the stereotypes include misconceptions that Islam is a religion of violence, radicalism, and that women are oppressed under it. 

The book also touches on many elements about Islam such as prayer and fasting rituals. 

“This book carries valuable points and is very helpful for doctors and nurses in the hospitals who may deal with Muslim patients and the issue of cultural sensitivity,” Imam Elahi said. 

He prayed before the crowd asking God to bless Siblani’s soul, calling her a “sincere servant of the community and humanity.” 

He also expressed sympathy to Osama Siblani, publisher of The Arab American News, and the paper’s staff, and wished them the best as they carry on the legacy she left behind.

Life & Services of Kay Siblani Honored at the IHW

January 20, 2013- Members of IHW dedicated the Service & Breakfast to the soul of late Kay Siblani, the executive editor of the Arab American News who passed away recently on January 1st.

Following the recitation from the Quran, Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi started the service honoring the life and legacy of a woman who served our faith and the community for the last three decades.

Imam spoke about Kay's publication and especially her book on "Islam and the Muslim Patient" as an educational document which was written 15 years ago to remove misconceptions about Islam and Muslims.

In her book, late Kay stood against Islamophobic propaganda proving that Islam is not a religion of violence, radicalism and oppression against women. She explained the main articles of the Islamic faith such as prayer, zakat, fasting, hajj and clarified many other concepts explaining that Islam is a way of life and a religion of rationality and flexibility. This book carries valuable points and is very helpful for doctors and nurses in the hospitals who may deal with Muslim patients and the issue of cultural sensitivity.

Imam recited and reflected on some Quranic verses regarding gender roles and responsibility and equality of male and female in the site of Allah in terms of rewards and punishments. The Quran judges people based on their characters and actions and not their gender or family ties. This is why the Quran admires the wife of the Pharaoh while it condemns the wife of Prophet Noah and Lut!

Imam Elahi mentioned that for the first time in the history of Islamic organizations in the area, IHW voted for a lady to be the vice chair of the board of directors.

At the end, again the imam prayed to God to bless the soul of a sincere servant of the community and humanity, Kay Siblani and expressed deep sympathy of IHW members to Mr. Osama Siblani, the editor and to the entire staff of the Arab American News. He wished them all the best in continuity of Kay's legacy and achievements.

At the end some of IHW members and participants took a group photo as a memory for Kay remembrance ceremony.

January 19, 2013- Counsul General of Lebanon, Mr. Bilal Kabalan visits IHW

The Spiritual Leader of Islamic House of Wisdom imam Mohammad Ali Elahi and the IHW Board of Trustees hosted his excellency Consul General of Lebanon, Mr. Bilal Kabalan for a warm and friendly breakfast.
 
The meeting, which lasted for about two hours, included IHW trustees, founding members and supporters.

Mr. Kabalan thanked imam Elahi for the invitation and discussed challenges facing the consulate and the community. He stressed the need of working together and urged community leaders to push for more openness and cooperation amongst each other and other communities in the area and the country.

"I urge you to be American before you are Lebanese," Kabalan said. "I look forward to working with religious institutions and all organizations in the community."

IHW Board Chairman, Dave Abdallah thanked Mr. Kabalan for his visit and praised his leadership and vision for unity.

Imam Elahi reflected on the history of Islamic of House of Wisdom and its quest to bring people together through intrafaith and interfaith activities. "We're here to serve humanity in general," Imam Elahi said.

Mr. Kabalan praised Imam Elahi's leadership, his record against occupation and injustice and his dedication for tolerance and acceptance. "We are looking forward to working with you," he said.

Islamic House of Wisdom is one of the largest Muslim institutions in North America and is a leader in interfaith and religious dialogue.

For more information, contact IHW at 313-359-1212 or at info@islamichouseofwisdom.com

Islamic House of Wisdom To Honor the Victims of the Tragic Terrorist Shooting!

For Immediate Release: Friday, Dec. 14, 2012

We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear of this senseless attack on an educational facility targeting teachers and innocent children. In mourning, we join our fellow Americans and share in their thoughts and prayers with our broken hearts.

So far more than 27 people have been reported dead in this brutal shooting, including 20 beautiful little kids. Words cannot express our deep grief that was caused by someone who had lost all sense of humanity and conscience!

We ask the Lord to bless the souls of the innocent victims, provide the suffering families with patience, the wounded with healing and to help us come together as one nation in prevention of this type of tragedy from repeating again.

The Islamic House of Wisdom is one of the largest Islamic Institutions in Michigan and is one of the leaders in interfaith dialogue and outreach. It will dedicate this Sunday's Breakfast Service to honor the memory of the victims of this tragedy.

This Sunday- Breakfast will start at 11amPrayer & Remembrance Service to begin at 11:45am

 We invite all including our interfaith friends to join us. 

22575 Ann Arbor Trail   
Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 
Telephone: (313) 359-1221

For more information, please contact IHW at 313-359-1221.

IHW elects woman to serve on new board of trustees 

Friday, 12.07.2012, 10:47pm- Arab American News

DEARBORN HEIGHTS — The Islamic House of Wisdom Board of Trustees elected new officers during its special meeting Wednesday, Dec. 5. 

The board elected Hajj Dave Abdallah, Chairman, Hajja Vicki Ashkar, 1st Vice Chair and Hajj Tarek Chami, 2nd Vice Chair. 

The recently formed board is comprised of 17 members, and it presides over one of the leading Islamic organizations in the area. 

The board embarked on selecting various committees to evaluate programs, increase membership and coordinate fundraising and public relations campaigns.

It’s noteworthy that a woman has been elected to serve as a 1st Vice Chair. This demonstrates the IHW’s vision on the importance of involvement from Muslim women in leadership and decision making roles within the community. 

Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi praised the elections and welcomed the new enthusiasm that the new board brings to the IHW.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012- The Islamic House of Wisdom Board of Trustees elected new officers during its special meeting last Wednesday evening, Dec. 5, 2012.

The board elected Hajj Dave Abdallah Chairman, Hajja Vicki Ashkar 1st Vice Chair and Hajj Tarek Chami 2nd Vice Chair. The recently formed board is composed of 17 members, and it presides over one of the leading Islamic organizations in North America.

Chairman Abdallah thanked the board and pledged to work together in serving the Islamic House of Wisdom and the community. The Chairman emphasized on responsibility, proficiency, and punctuality of the members and called on the board to maximize the meaningfulness of their discussion and be strong and productive.

The board embarked on selecting various committees to evaluate programs, increase membership and coordinate fundraising and public relations campaigns.

This is the first time in the history of local Islamic centers a woman is elected as a 1st Vice Chair. This demonstrates the vision of IHW on the importance of involvement of Muslim women in the leadership and decision making processes in the community. The choice of a young new attorney as a Vice Chair indicates the importance of outreach to the new generation in the community.

Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi praised the elections and welcomed the new enthusiasm and dynamism that the new board brings to the House of Wisdom and community, especially the young generation. Imam considered membership in the house of God an honorable covenant with the Lord and asked the trustees to fulfill their covenant faithfully and firmly. The imam called IHW a center of sincerity, service and unity. He encouraged the members to keep the legacy of openness in any board discussion, since the main mission of IHW is to educate about Islam and serve  the community.

Imam Elahi honored the founding members and those who served in the previous boards since the establishment of IHW in 1995.

Islamic House of Wisdom has a successful history in serving the community and is an active leader in interfaith dialogue and progressive programs.

It is located at 22575 Ann Arbor Trail in Dearborn Heights and it encourages community members to help the new board with their time, talent, and participation in IHW programs.

As the IHW Ashura commemoration was completed successfully, we would like to  thank our faithful community members for their passionate participation and also those who contributed to the programs throughout the 12 nights!

Guest speakers at IHW, Sayyed Jafar Qazwini  and Sayed Najah Al-Husseini did a wonderful job bringing the spirit of Ashura to the hearts of the faithful participants. Our founding Imam Elahi  shared his words of wisdom, Br. Ahmad Nassar shared the beauty of the Quran with his recitation and sister Teeba Sadoun presented poetry in most nights of the program.

The board members, staff and volunteers all put their hearts and minds into the success of the nightly services.

May   Allah bless all the servants and the served ones and reward us all  under the shining light of sacrifice of Imam Hussein (as) and other  martyrs of Karbala!

The Ashura service is over but IHW is open everyday to serve our nation in general and our community in particular.

Please continue with your participation in weekly Services held at the IHW as part of your Ashura Resolution!

 Thurday, Dua Kumayl |  Friday Prayer at 12:30pm   |  Sunday Service  & Breakfast at 11:00am  | Arabic/Islamic School (Call office or  reply to this message for more info)  |  Muslim Girl Scouts  | Various  Programs Corresponding with the Islamic Calendar (Soon to be announced:  Arba'een Program)  Stay Tuned for our upcoming activities!

IHW  is also available for:   Engagement/Weddings/Special Events/Meetings  |  Maqsal (Islamic Ritual Washing Area for the Deceased) |   Funeral/Memorial Services  | Family/Marriage/Personal Counseling | For  more details of our services, programs and opportunities of use- contact  our office!

Interfaith unity dinner held at Islamic House of Wisdom

Monday, 11.19.2012, 04:17pm- Arab American News

Dearborn Heights — Muslim community members in addition to members of the Christian and Jewish communities gathered at the Islamic House of Wisdom in Dearborn Heights for a unity dinner that included attendance from the interfaith community last Friday.

Imam Elahi of the Islamic House of Wisdom and Rev. Bill Gepford of Littlefield Presbyterian Church began the dinner with opening prayers. Following dinner, the program moved into the auditorium for a special Interfaith Service that featured encouraging words of unity from Interfaith Clergy Leaders and participants.

Hajj Khalil Hachem gave welcoming words on behalf of the Islamic House of Wisdom and invited to the podium the MC of the evening, Dr. Robert Bruttell, Chair of the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metro Detroit to MC the event. Following a brief overview of the evening, emcee Robert Bruttell invited Imam Elahi to the podium.

Mentioning the end of the elections in the U.S., Imam Elahi hoped that the president's slogan of change starts from within the minds and hearts of all people, replacing selfishness with sacrifice, greed with giving and the culture of "Me" with the culture of "We."

Imam Elahi asked other mosques and churches to continue with this type of interfaith dialogue in setting a good example for those in the Middle East who are choosing the direction of death and destruction in the name of God and religion.

The second speaker was Rev. Amy Kienzl, the Pastor at Christus Victor Lutheran Church of Dearborn Heights reflected of the some stories from the Bible noting to "Love your neighbors" and asked for the continuity of this outreach.

The Islamic House of Wisdom will also begin their Ashura services this week with English speaker Sayed Jafar Al-Qazweeni  and Arabic speaker Sayed Najah Al-Husseini. The lectures will take place every night during the ten days of Ashura beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Islamic House of Wisdom 

Interfaith Unity Dinner Highlights! 

Nov. 9, 2012-  Muslim community members in addition to members of the Christian and Jewish communities gathered at the Islamic House of Wisdom for an evening of interfaith interaction.

The evening began with dinner where more than three hundred guests had an opportunity to socialize with one another to meet and greet. Imam Elahi of the Islamic House of Wisdom and Rev. Bill Gepford of Littlefield Presbyterian Church began the dinner with an opening prayers. 

Following dinner, the program moved into the auditorium for a special Interfaith Service that featured encouraging words of unity from Interfaith Clergy Leaders and participants.

Hajj Khalil Hachem gave welcoming words on behalf of the Islamic House of Wisdom and invited to the podium the MC of the evening, Dr. Robert Bruttell, Chair of the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metro Detroit to MC the event. Following a brief overview of the evening, MC Robert Bruttell invited Imam Elahi to the podium.

Imam Elahi welcomed the clergy and officials including the mayor of Dearborn and the police chief Haddad and thanked the interfaith partners for  taking time to attend the friendly and faithful gathering.

Mentioning the end of the elections in the US, the Imam hoped that the president's slogan of change starts from within the minds and hearts of all people. Replacing selfishness with sacrifice, greed with giving and the culture of "Me" with the culture of "We"!

Imam Elahi spoke about some tragic times in the history of the Abrahamic traditions and highlighted ignorance and ego of the main causes of chaos in the world. He said the disease of Islamophobia in the west and Shiaphobia in the Middle East are products of politics on one side and ignorance on the other side!

Reflecting on some side effects of ignorance, Imam spoke about generalization, exaggeration, extremism and superstition while emphasizing on dialogue and education as the best medicine for those social diseases.

Pointing to the verses about Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Mary in the Quran, the Imam called the Quran an interfaith book that invites all the people of faith to communicate with respect, responsibility, patience and humility.

The imam concluded that the best way of dialogue is to start with what we all agree like the concept of God, creation of Adam and Eve, angels, revelation, reward and punishment, and also the concept of justice, peace and human dignity.

Imam Elahi asked other mosques and churches to continue with this type of interfaith dialogue in setting a good example for those in the Middle East who are choosing the direction of death and destruction in the name of God and religion.

Fr. Jeffrey Day of St. Fabian Parish in Farmington Hills who is also the Interfaith Advisor to the Roman Catholic Church Archdiocese spoke on some of the interfaith initiatives of the catholic church mentioning the recent visit in Lebanon by Pope Benedict XVI. Rev. Amy Kienzl, the Pastor at Christus Victor Lutheran Church of Dearborn Heights reflected of the some stories from the Bible noting to "Love your neighbors" and asked for the continuity of this outreach.

Following the main speakers of the evening, clergy and interfaith community leaders were called to the front of the stage where they were asked to speak briefly on the subjects of unity, hope, healing and interfaith. Participants in the crowd were energized giving each a round of applause for their words.

The floor was opened to participants who appreciated this great initiative and encouraged one another to do more. Hajjah Rima Turfeh reiterated the importance that all religious leaders should take the messages of this event to their congregations and for them to put the hope of unity into practice. Imam Mustafa El-Turk of I.O.N.A. concluded the program with a closing prayer highlighting justice and peace for the people of our world.

At the conclusion of the program in the auditorium, interfaith partners moved to the Mahdi hall and enjoyed casual engagement, conversation, questions and answers in addition to tea and sweets untill 11pm!

This was one of the most successful interfaith gatherings of this kind in this area of recent years.

Islamic House of Wisdom Celebrates 

Semi-Annual Fundraising Successfully

Sept. 30, 2012

Dearborn Heights-- Islamic House of Wisdom celebrated

Sunday, September 30, its Semi-Annual Fundraising Dinner successfully, attracting  clergy, community and interfaith leaders, professionals and community members. Dignitaries included Members of Shia-Sunni Clergy, Judge David Turfee, Osama Siblini the publisher of Arab American News, Hajj Noha Fakih representing the Lebanese Consulate Bilal Kabbani, Hajji Nawal Hamdeh the founder of Hamedah Educational Services, Father Michael Hovey representing Archbishop Allen Henry Vigneron and Rev. David Kasbow the local leader of Family Federation.

Islamic House of Wisdom is one the largest and most active Muslim institutions in the North America in terms of community services, interfaith dialogue and outreach. In addition to religious and social programs, it hosts Arabic & Islamic schools, Girl Scouts and numerous valuable services.

Dr. Mohammad Ajjour, founding chairman of Islamic House of Wisdom was the first speaker who welcomed the guests of IHW. Dr. Ajjour shared some words about the contributions of Islam to human civilization and admired the leadership of Imam Elahi and sincere services of IHW to the community. Dr. Ajjour emphasized on the importance of supporting IHW in its mission of educating the society against bigotry and hate.

The keynote Speaker of the dinner was the spritual leaader of IHW, Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi who welcomed everyone and dedicated the theme of his talk to Prophet Mohammad's (pbuh) moral character.

Imam stated that all God's Ambassadors on this earth shared the same mission: removal of the darkness of ignorance from human life with the light of logic and love. The Prophets came to revolutionize human minds and hearts with spirit of Divine revelation.

The Messengers of God called for peace, justice, freedom, human rights and dignity. All stood against the evil of arrogance, injustice and oppression!

Imam Elahi spoke about the mission of God's last Messenger saying, Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) was the continuity of God's gift and blessing to humanity. He was sent to complete the moral mission of his brothers with main emphases on education and purification!

The Imam mentioned some examples of the Prophet's (pbuh) moral characteristics. In the battle of Ohod, when he was attacked and some of his teeth were broken and his forehead was bleeding, instead of cursing his enemies, he prayed for them saying " O Lord please forgive them, they are only ignorant". After liberation of Mecca, everyone was expecting him to revenge for being under persecution of the pagans for 20 years, but he made one simple statement. "O people of Mecca, you are forgiven and free".

Imam Elahi said the best way of defending the prophet is to win over our internal jihad and overcome our biggest enemies- our ego, greed, selfishness, jealousy and arrogance.

The best way to defend the Prophet (pbuh) is to do it through our actions, feeding the hungry, contributing to communities, mosques, schools and donating blood to the needy in the hospitals.

Imam Elahi called extremism whether political or religious of any faith a cancer for the body of humanity and said we all need to stand united against this disease which is hurting the whole world.

Imam considers investment on the youth and saving them from the danger of extremism an important challenge for the community.

Imam Elahi admired the young leaders who received the plaques in recognition of their dedication and educational achievements and asked for a new strategy to save the youth who dropout of school and ruin their lives with drugs and alcohol.

He said the current Islamophobia promoted by hate, greed, ignorance and irresponsibility is hurting the entire world and asked the community to show more support for Islamic House of Wisdom and other organizations that are in the front line of fighting this social cancer.

Dr. Ron Pelley representing Boy and Girl Scouts of Michigan participated in the dinner with his wife Faith. He hailed IHW and Imam Elahi's efforts to reach out to the various communities and emphasized the necessity to respect Islam and Muslims.

During the dinner, Islamic House of Wisdom honored several young members of the community for their leadership and community services.

The awardees included Mariam Turfe, who was accepted to Yale and is studying biology; Samer Hijazi, who is a journalist at the American Arab News; Zeinab Hussein, a medical contact worker with the state of Michigan and a candidate for the Dearborn Heights Crestwood School District; Dewnya Bazzi, an attorney with Romanzi Atnip and an activist, Zena Elhassan, who is a Wayne County's Corporation Counsel and a community leader and Hamid Souedan, who is a business owner and serves on the board of the Dearborn Heights Crestwood School District.

Islamic House of Wisdom and its Board of Directors thank all the sponsors, supporters and volunteers for making the fundraiser successful and we look forward to continue this wonderful community in the path of God. May God bless us all.

For more information about Islamic House of Wisdom, please contact us

at 313-359-1221 or at info@islamichouseofwisdom.com. Please send us your thoughts about the dinner! 

Interfaith Iftar Held at the Islamic House of Wisdom

Last Saturday, Aug 4th-

The IHW interfaith Iftar was attended by the Mayor of Dearborn Heights, Judge Dingle, County officials, Muslim and Christian clergy, leaders of Michigan Boy scouts and community leaders and activists.

Imam Elahi welcomed the guests mentioning that the month of Ramadan is the month of revelation and resistance. Fasting is not only a physical experience but a complete observation and purification of mind, heart and spirit.

Imam Elahi condemned the acts of war and terrorism especially in the month of peace and forgiveness and prayed for peace and reconciliation in Syria.

The imam opened the floor for the guests to share their Ramadan reflections and thoughts pertaining to key community issues- from the upcoming election, challenges of the youth and working together for unity.

On Tuesday July 3rd, IHW held a dinner honoring Sayed Shahrestani- the head of the House of Wisdom in Canada, and Sayyed Tijani of Tunis. Attended by Shia-Sunni and community members.

During the dinner Sayed Shahrestani gave an introduction about his online Hawza which is currently funded completely by a group of pious contributors and offering services to thousands of Muslims around the world. Also, Sayed Tijani gave a word on the state of Tunis and Islam today in the light of all the revolutions that are still ongoing in the Middle East.

Islamic House of Wisdom hosts successful fundraising dinner

Friday, 04.27.2012, 12:14am- Arab American News

Imams, interfaith leaders and U.S. Rep. John Conyers (third from left, bottom row). DEARBORN HEIGHTS — The Semi-Annual Fundraising dinner at IHW was held Sunday, April 22 with the presence of Ayatollah Sheikh Abdul-Latif Berry, Imams, board members of local Islamic Organizations, interfaith clergy, Congressman John Conyers, Dr. Houssam Diab, the Consul General of Lebanon to Detroit, Judge David Turfe, and hundreds of community members and leaders.

After the youth presentation by Ali Najaf and the financial report by IHW treasurer Rafiq Diab, Imam Mohammad Ali  Elahi was introduced by Khalil Hachem to address the guests of the occasion.

Imam Elahi welcomed and thanked the guests of the dinner by saying, "Life is time and time is the greatest gift of God to humanity. To spend some of your time in the house of God is already a great contribution. The prophet said, be more greedy about your days than your dollars."

The main message of Imam Elahi was about cooperation within the family, community and universal fellowship. The culture of “we” and not “me” is the spirit of the center's prayers, he said.

Zakat (charity) is another form of cooperation in the Qur'an.  An order that is repeated in the Qur'an 32 times. Cooperation with the mosques by helping them to serve the faith and the community was the conclusion of Imam Elahi’s message. Four-hundred guests enjoyed dinner together in a welcoming family atmosphere. 

Congressman John Conyers and other nominees in the coming election addressed the community with their post-election outlook and plans. An award of Islamic Art was presented to Sara Wutwut and her family for their sincere service to the IHW. Following the dinner, members of the IHW began planning summer activities and programs that correlate with the Islamic calendar which will lead into the Ramadan nightly services. 

Islamic House of Wisdom Fundraising Dinner a Success!              

The Semi-Annual Fundraising dinner at IHW was held Sunday, April 22nd with the presence of Ayatollah Sheik Abdul-Latif Berry, Imams and board members of local Islamic Organizations, Interfaith clergy, Congressman John Conyers, Dr. Hussam Diab- General Consulate of Lebanon, Judge David Turfe, Osama Siblini- editor in Chief of the Arab American News and hundreds of community leaders and members.

After the youth presentation by Br. Ali Najaf and the financial report by IHW treasurer Rafiq Diab, Imam Mohammad Ali  Elahi was introduced by Khalil Hachem to address the guests of the occasion.

Imam Elahi welcomed and thanked the guests of the dinner by saying, "Life is time and time is the greatest gift of God to humanity. To spend some of your time in the house of God is already a great contribution. The Prophet (pbuh) said, be more greedy about your days than your dollars."

The main message of Imam Elahi was about cooperation within the family, community and universal fellowship. Quranic cooperation is motivated by piety, sincerity and responsibility and not through sin, selfishness, greed, evil and injustice. Even the Islamic rituals like our daily prayer are platforms of not only getting closer to God but cooperation with humankind. The culture of "we" and not "me" is the spirit of our prayers.

Zakat is another form of cooperation in the Quran.  An order that is repeated in the Quran 32 times. Cooperation with the mosques by helping them to serve the faith and the community was the conclusion of Imam Elahi's message.

The mission of the mosque is to rid Islamophobia and ignorance. It is to save the youth from the danger of drugs, alcohol, and adultery and to teach the new generation lessons of dignity, determination, compassion, commitment, generosity, justice, love, logic, prayer, patience, responsibility, righteousness, sincerity and wisdom. 

Mosques won't be successful without the cooperation of the community both by participation and financial contribution.

For the sake of time, Imam Elahi dedicated only 5 minutes towards calling on behalf of IHW for some urgent needs related to the projects and programs of House of Wisdom. The first contributor was Ayatollah Sheik Abdul-Latif Berry who pledged $5,000 in the name of religious marjaeyya (Jurisprudence authority). By the end of 5 minutes the Fundraising goal was met and more than 400 guests enjoyed a delicious dinner in a loving faith and family atmosphere.

During the dinner Congressman John Conyers and other nominees in the coming election addressed the community with their post-election outlook and plans. An award of Islamic Art was presented to Sara Wutwut and her family for their sincere service to the IHW. Following the dinner, members of the IHW have begun planning summer activities and programs that correlate with the Islamic calendar which will lead us into the Ramadan Nightly Services.

Muslim center holds singles nights

By Nick Meyer- Arab American News

Friday, 11.14.2008, 08:19pm

Singles nights are events that many different religious institutions hold to give people a chance to meet someone special who shares their beliefs in a positive environment.

But when Kathleen Mary Kalil looked around the Muslim community, she didn't see the same opportunities for people to meet each other. That's why she decided to help create a series of Muslim Singles Meet & Greet events in the metro Detroit area. The next one will take place at 8 p.m. on November 22 at the Islamic House of Wisdom on Ann Arbor Trail in Dearborn Heights.

Kalil partnered with Jennifer Elahi, wife of Islamic House of Wisdom Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi, and Tarek Hassan, an architect and professor at Lawrence Tech, to help create the series of events.

"For a long time we've been reading in the paper about Jewish and Christian communities that do this at their churches, but we don't have anything like it around here, so we thought we might as well give it a try," said Kalil.

Kalil said the goal of the series was to give Muslim singles, especially those who are divorced or widowed, a chance to meet each other in a proper, dignified manner. The response from the community has been overwhelming so far, as people ask Kalil about them all the time.

The first Meet & Greet event, held four months ago, turned out a little differently than Kalil expected, however.

"A lot more men than women showed up at the first one," she said. "But now, we're spreading news around, putting fliers at universities and mosques and businesses as well as getting in the newspaper for more widespread publicity."

The event is open to all Muslims and Kalil says that if the next one is as successful as she hopes, she and the Committee for Muslim Singles' Nights will look into different venues for the future such as other mosques or perhaps Arabic restaurants in the Dearborn area and beyond.

"We hope that it will be a very respectful, dignified way for Muslims to meet each other and then they can take it from there," said Kalil. "They will have the opportunity to talk to each other, trade e-mail addresses or phone numbers, and then see where it goes."

Kalil said it is recommended but not mandatory that women wear a scarf to the event. She plans to hold the events every couple of months depending on how the reaction goes from the public.

Attendees at the November 22 event are asked to bring a $1.00 donation to cover the cost of refreshments. For more information, call Kathy Kalil at 248.563.6740, or send an e-mail to either kkalil@peoplepc.com or Bridgette@wayne.edu.

Islamic House of Wisdom Semi-Annual Fundraising Dinner a success

Friday, 10.21.2011, 07:25am- Arab American News

Guests listen to Imam Elahi’s speech at the Islamic House of Wisdom in Dearborn Heights. Elahi emphasized the importance of reaching out to the youth and serving the community.

PHOTO: Naheh AbuNab

DEARBORN HEIGHTS —Imams, community leaders, members of religious, cultural, social and educational institutions and interfaith representatives were among the honored guests at the Islamic House of Wisdom's Semi-Annual Fundraising Dinner on Sunday, Oct. 16. 

Main speakers included Dr. Mohammad Ajjour, Ayatollah Sheikh Abdul-Latif Berri and Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi, the spiritual leader of the center. 

"I I really enjoy being part of this community, and love you all. I am asking you today to show your support for this inspirational community center," Elahi said. 

"The glory of our mosque is not a minaret and dome, beautiful pews or auditorium but the services we provide, especially to the youth.

"Many Muslim youths are suffering from depression, identity confusion, and loss of faith. If their only friends are the ones on the Facebook and most of these live on the other side of this planet; when the TV is their full time teacher that they watch almost six hours each day, there is a terrible aching loneliness. Helping our youth develop faithful character can be best achieved through socializing and learning at places of worship like IHW.

The IHW has gone through numerous phases of development and progress, focusing on the spiritual needs of Muslims, while also considering the interests of non-Muslims through dialogue, discussion and social interaction. 

It also  provides child care, food assistance, and clothing and occasionally cash assistance to the needy, but its main role is spiritual and educational outreach. It reaches out to political activists and organizations standing against Islamophobia and works hard to remove hateful ignorance from society, because the politics of Armageddon ideology hurts America’s integrity. The center also performs funeral and wedding ceremonies and conducts outreach programs including sending books, Qur'ans and gifts to Muslim prisoners. 

Elahi thanked police, firefighters, teachers, and others upstanding members of society and also quoted the Prophet Muhammad, saying  “The one who is careless of the community’s affairs, is not a Muslim.”

"When I first visited the US in 1989, I was impressed by the common phrase, “Can I help you?” he continued. "Helping people gives grace to those who serve. If you are someone that other people seek out for help and advice, be grateful for the honor...A wise man is kind to both good and bad people." 

Semi-Annual Fundraising Dinner

October 16, 2011 |   The Semi-Annual Fundraising Dinner at Islamic House of Wisdom was a great community event due to the grace of God & support of the faithful.

The presence of Imams, community leaders, members of religious, cultural, social and educational institutions and interfaith representatives added diversity yet unity to our gathering.

Dr. Mohammad Ajjour, Ayatollah Sheikh Abdul-Latif Berri and Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi were the main speakers of the occasion. Hajj Khalil Hachem, Hajj Hussein Zeytoun and Hajj Ahmad Alzaroui gave a digital presentation of IHW's projects and services.

We thank all who helped make the dinner a success through participation, volunteering and generous donations!

For the faithful who missed the dinner and like to express their support for IHW, the gates of contribution are still open.

 
1- Your khoms obligation or general donations can be sent online or mailed directly to IHW.

2-  Put your family name or honor the memory of your beloved ones on the Legacy Tree located at the entrance of Masjid-al-Noor at IHW!  

3- Submit a membership form to contribute a monthly donation in support of our projects & services.

According to the Holy Quran: "The parable of those who spend their substance in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn: it grows seven ears, and each ear has a hundred grains. Allah gives manifold increase to whom He pleases: And Allah cares for all and He is the Knower all things. (2:261)

Islamic House of Wisdom interfaith iftar held in spirit of cooperation 

Saturday, 08.27.2011, 01:14pm- Arab American News

DEARBORN HEIGHTS - Islamic House of Wisdom held a Unity and Interfaith iftar Saturday, August 20, that attracted more than 300 people and highlighted the spirit of cooperation between the different faiths in the community.

The iftar included local imams, pastors and leaders of religious organizations, U.S. and State House representatives, Lebanese Consular General Houssam Diab, judges, representatives from civic and nonprofit organizations, community leaders, youth groups and a host of local elected officials and distinguished guests.

Islamic House of Wisdom has been a leader in interfaith dialogue and in bringing representatives of various faiths to celebrate the commonality of religions. It also sponsors different youth programs, focusing on tolerance, peace and unity.

“It is am important part of our Islamic belief that we’re connected to the various religions (comprising) the interfaith community,” Dr. Tallal Turfe said, opening the event. 

Father Jeffery Day of the Archdiocese of Detroit congratulated the Muslim community on the holy month of Ramadan and reiterated the importance of dialogue between Christians and Muslims. He thanked Islamic House of Wisdom for facilitating the dialogue. “It’s a blessing,” he said.

Imam Muhammed Ali Elahi thanked participants for attending. 

“Fasting is admired in all Abrahamic religions,” Imam Elahi said. “Fasting is spiritual exercise and to enhance discipline and determination over dangerous human desires and temptation.”

He urged participants to unite against extremism in all faiths because hatred directed toward certain members of the community hurts the entire community. “Ramadan is a good time to reflect on that and help us fight Islamophobia because it is evil,” he said. 

Ramadan Interfaith Iftar

Islamic House of Wisdom

Dearborn Heights, August 20, 2011 -- Islamic House of Wisdom held a Unity and Interfaith iftar Saturday, August 20, that attracted more than 300 people and highlighted the spirit of cooperation between the different faiths in the community.

The iftar included local imams, pastors and leaders of religious organizations, U.S. and State House representatives, Lebanese Consular General Houssam Diab, judges, representatives from civic and nonprofit organizations, community leaders, youth groups and a host of local elected officials and distinguished guests.

Islamic House of Wisdom has been a leader in interfaith dialogue and in bringing representatives of various faiths to celebrate the commonality of religions. It also sponsors different youth programs, focusing on tolerance, peace and unity.

The event began with a brief notes from Dr. Tallal Turfe, who emphasized the importance for Muslims to come together with their interfaith neighbors. 

"It is important and part of our Islamic belief that we be connected to the various religions that comprise the interfaith community," Dr. Turfe said. "As we gather for this Ramadan Interfaith Iftar Dinner, we are celebrating the commonality of God and what God means in all of our lives."

Father Jeffery Day of the Archdiocese of Detroit congratulated the Muslim community on the holy month of Ramadan and reiterated the importance of dialogue between Christians and Muslims. He also thanked Islamic House of Wisdom for taking the initiative to facilitate this dialogue. "It's a blessing," he said.

The spiritual leader of Islamic House of Wisdom Imam Muhammed Ali Elahi thanked participants for attending the dinner  and reflected on the benefits of Ramadan and the powerful messages it brings to the community. 

"Fasting is admired in all Abrahamic religions," Imam Elahi said. "Fasting is spiritual exercise and to enhance discipline and determination over dangerous human desires and temptation."

Ramadan brings humility, purity, sincerity and dignity to human hearts, and it is a time to repair relations with society, Iman Elahi said. 

"You shall never attain righteousness unless you give from what you love. Whatsoever you give, God is fully aware of it." (Quran 3:92) 

He urged participants to unite against extremism in all faiths because hatred directed toward certain members of the community hurts the entire community. "Ramadan is a good time to reflect on that and help us fight Islamophobia because it is evil," he said.

He also discussed the various exciting projects at the Islamic House of Wisdom.

• A recent renovation of the main hall to make it more spacious and inviting with colors, new carpet, and refurbished benches.
• The completion of a new maghsel to hep shroud the dead and prepare bodies according to Muslim rules and specification.
• The purchase a 7000-square foot school on the premises and is looking for someone to open a school there.
• The calligraphy project that is currently underway, aiming at beautifying Islamic House of Wisdom with Islamic Art.
• The various educational projects, conferences and seminars to serve the community.

For more information, call Islamic House of Wisdom at 313.359.1221.

Family and youth workshop to be held at Islamic House of Wisdom

Friday, 07.08.2011, 04:52am

DEARBORN —  On July 16th, the Islamic House of Wisdom in collaboration with local mosques and organizations, will hold a one day workshop to tackle family and youth issues that impact the local Muslim community.

The workshop will run from 1:30 pm until 7:00 pm and will feature distinguished speakers and activists from the local community including Ayatollah Sheikh Abdul Latif Berry, Sheikh Muhamad Ali Elahi, Hajjah Najah Bazzi, Sheikh Baqir Berry, and others. The topics will include parents and children's rights, Islamic perspective on sexuality, family structure in Islam, and other current topics.

This workshop will be the first in a series of workshops to take place throughout the year in participating local centers including but not limited to: Islamic Center of America, Islamic Institute of Knowledge, and Bint Jbeil Cultural Center. For further information, please call 313.359.1221.