Islamic House of Wisdom holds fundraiser, recognizes local leaders

Thursday, 05.02.2013, 07:57pm- Arab American News

DEARBORN HEIGHTS — The Islamic House of Wisdom (IHW) celebrated its semi-annual fundraising dinner last Sunday, before an audience of hundreds of officials, dignitaries, supporters, and community members of different faiths and nationalities, who turned out to support the mosque.

Since its establishment in 1995, the IHW has created a niche for itself in the community through its focus on the spiritual needs of Muslims and reaching out to non-Muslims through awareness and dialogue. The mosque reaches out to political activists and organizations and combats Islamophobia, in an effort to eradicate hate and ignorance against Muslims. 

The event program included a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, special presentations, an awards ceremony, and a highlight of the pro-active programs and services that the IHW has provided to the community over the years.  

IHW Spiritual Leader Imam Mohammad Elahi thanked participants for their attendance and reflected on the effective role of the mosque in the community and as a spiritual organization. Following his speech, the IHW board recognized five individuals for their achievements and service to the community.

Dearborn High School student Ollie Ajami was recognized for his athletic and educational achievements.  Ajami has accepted a full athletic scholarship to Grand Valley State University, where he will play college football.

The Islamic House of Wisdom honorees pose in the front. Honorees were (From Left to right) Hajji Mariam Ousman, Mr. Harold Samhat,  Attorney Abed Hammoud, Dearborn High student Ollie Ajami, and Dr. Tallal Turfe. Dr. Tallal Turfe was recognized for his national and international achievements, including his dedication to unifying the community and his work for peace and justice through his books, numerous lectures and outreach activities.

Attorney Abed Hammoud was recognized for his achievements and contributions to a number of high-level jobs in the area, including his most recent position as an Assistant U.S. Attorney within the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan. He was also recognized for his leadership and his role in establishing several community civil and political organizations, including the Arab American Political Action Committee.

Mr. Harold Samhat was also recognized for his personal achievements and his dedication to the community. He has been a successful businessman and a prominent contributor to the community, as a board member of the Arab American National Museum, for a number of years.

Hajji Mariam Ousman was recognized for her unwavering support to the IHW over the years. She has served the IHW for a number of years and has participated in every capacity to promote the mission of the organization.

Some of the attendees at the event included candidates who are running in local elections this year. Among those present, included Dearborn Heights Mayor Dan Paletko, Dearborn Heights Mayoral candidate Janet Badalow and Dearborn City Council candidates Susan Dabaja, Mike Sareini and Moe Berro. 

Dabaja, Sareini, and Berro all expressed a unified message during their address to the attendees, highlighting the importance of getting involved in local elections. Mayor Paletko also encouraged community members to get involved as well and went on to recognize the IHW as a leader in the community through its continued efforts to foster interfaith cooperation and dialogue.

Another speaker at the dinner, Father Jeffrey Day, who was representing the Catholic church, made some important remarks,  reflecting on the new Pope and how his appointment sparked peaceful dialouge between Muslims and Christians.  

While the IHW has served as a spiritual home to many, it has also provided care to the needy on many occasions, through food assistance, child care, clothing and occasionally cash assistance to those less fortunate. The center also performs funeral and wedding ceremonies and conducts outreach programs, which include the disbursement of books, Qur'ans and gifts to Muslim prisoners. 

Islamic House of Wisdom Successfully Celebrates Fundraising Dinner

Dearborn Heights, MI, April 28, 2013 -- Islamic House of Wisdom celebrated its semi-annual fundraising dinner successfully Sunday, attracting more than 400 officials, dignitaries, supporters, volunteers, members and friends from different faiths and nationalities.

The event, which began with recitation of the Holy Quran, included presentations, awards and celebration of the wonderful programs and services Islamic House of Wisdom has been providing to the community.

Islamic House of Wisdom Board of Directors Chairman, Dave Abdullah welcomed participants and thanked IHW's spiritual leader Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi, the IHW Board of Directors, volunteers, staff and the community for their unwavering support of Islamic House of Wisdom.  

 Abdullah said, imam Elahi and a group of dedicated members of the community established Islamic House of Wisdom as an answer to a great community aspiration, and today, it is one of the largest Muslim institutions in the State of Michigan, a leader in intra-inter faith dialogue, a force in fighting Islamophobia and a champion for peace, justice and freedom.   

During the event, the IHW board recognized five people for their achievement and service to the community.

Dearborn High student, Ollie Ajami was recognized for his athletic, educational and high grades achievements.

Dr. Tallal Turfe was recognized for his national and international achievements. His dedication to the unity of the community and his work for peace and justice through his books, lectures and outreach.

Attorney Abed Hammoud was recognized for his achievements and services in a variety of high level jobs in the area. His courage, leadership and his role in establishment of several community civil and political organizations.

Mr. Harold Samhat was recognized for his personal achievements and his dedication to the community. He has been a successful businessman, with numerous awards and has been a strong supporter of the community.

Hajji Mariam Osman was recognized for unwavering support of IHW. She has served IHW with utmost dedication, sincerity and devotion, participating in every way possible while promoting the mission of IHW.

Imam Elahi thanked participants for their attendance and reflected on the constructive role of a mosque in the community and the role of the Islamic House of Wisdom as a spiritual organization. "The main function of this House is the remembrance of Allah," he said. "That is to be aware of His presence in our lives, to make our life the life of zakerin (those who are awake) not the life of ghafelin, (those negligent and asleep)."  

Also, he said indeed dhikr is not consisting of only saying a few words as lip service, but to establish the attributes of Allah in our souls. To remember Allah means to remember that He is of peace, justice, love and forgiveness. He is of generosity, unity, and is caring for His creation. The goal is to apply Allah's attributes in our life.

World problems of today from chaos, confusion, crime, corruption, war, terrorism, poverty, racism, hate and hostility are out absence of spiritual awareness! All of these problems caused by people without faith or by those who turn their faith into fanaticism.

The Quran says:

وَمَنْ أَظْلَمُ مِمَّن مَّنَعَ مَسَاجِدَ اللّهِ أَن يُذْكَرَ فِيهَا اسْمُهُ وَسَعَى فِي خَرَابِهَا

"And who are more unjust than those who prevent the name of Allah from being mentioned in His mosques and strive toward their destruction". 2:114 

The faithful support the Mosque because the mosque serves the community and any service to the community is a service to Allah, which is the purpose of our life, he said.

"Islamic House of Wisdom is open seven days a week ready to serve the community: to defend the truth; to stand for justice and for human dignity; to go to any meeting at any time and any place; and to take any measures to clarify the position of our faith and our community on any misconception and any politicized misunderstanding that may occur", Imam Elahi said.

"We give our services with complete care and humility. As the Imam, I focus   on my faith and mission, not my personal comfort and such. In fact its an  honor to sacrifice our comfort, respect and prestige to serve our faith  and community " he said.

Imam Elahi called the faithful community members to use part of their Khums money to support the services of the area mosques and get credit both from God and the government tax obligation. He mentioned that more than 10 of the greatest Islamic marjas have authorized IHW to receive khums for its educational, social and family services.

 Daniel Paletko, the mayor of Dearborn Heights, some community members who are running for election and local activists made remarks about the importance of participating in the coming elections including, Mike Sareini, Mo Berro, Susan Dabaja, Zeinab Hussein and Jane Badlow. Hajj Marwan Houry was the Master of Ceremonies throughout the dinner event.  

Mayor Paletko said, "As  Mayor, I am so grateful and believe the community is blessed to have  the Islamic House of Wisdom located within the City of Dearborn Heights.  The mosque and Imam Mohammad Elahi have been in the forefront of  inter-faith cooperation and has lead the Metropolitan Detroit area in  fostering inter-religious discussion.  

I am so glad and feel blessed to have the friendship of Imam Elahi  and the membership of the Islamic House of Wisdom. May God bless all of  you! "

Fr. Jeffry Day representing the Catholic church made some important  remarks, reflecting on the emphases of the new Pope on necessity of  dialogue between Muslims and Christians!

Islamic House of Wisdom is one of the successful spiritual institutions in North America, and it is a leader in interfaith dialogue. It is located at 22575 Ann Arbor Trail, Dearborn Heights, MI 48126. For more information, call 313-359-1221.

  More Pictures:  IHW's Facebook Gallery- April 28, 2013  Fundraising Dinner  

                    Photo's by Bill Chapman Photography: Facebook Gallery

April 21st- Health Event a Success!
Last Sunday, A special Health Seminar & Screening took place at the Islamic House of Wisdom.

  Under the organization of Hajji Dr. Vicki Ashker,  in cooperation with Oakwood Hospital, participants of Sunday's Service had an opportunity to learn about stroke prevention in addition to having their concerns and questions answered by various participating health professionals.

The presentation highlighted: Stroke- Risks, signs and symptoms. In addition methods of immediate action and rehabilitation care were noted.

Following the presentation, several medical staff of Oakwood hospital were on the scene to do free screenings for diabetes, blood sugar and high blood pressure.
Participants appreciated the information and outreach.

 If you would like to become involved in future Health Events and planning, please reply to this message for more information!

Special Thanks to Hajji Dr. Vicki Ashker for the initiative of planning and implementing two of our most recent healthy living seminars and screenings.

Muslim Girl Scouts form strong friendships through faith

Thursday, 03.21.2013, 05:39pm: Arab American News

DEARBORN HEIGHTS — The Muslim Girl Scouts troop of southeast Michigan could be one of the largest scout groups in the region with its more than 250 members according to a report. Its members reside in different cities in the region, and meet once a week. They also take trips during the summer.  

Janan Wutwut, who has been a member for years says the group has brought her closer to her faith, and she wouldn’t know as much about Islam as she does today if she hadn’t joined. Wutwut says over the years she’s met friends through the group she wouldn’t have met otherwise, and formed close friendships. 

“I’ve been in the group for years, and a lot of us have watched each other grow up. It’s more than just a girl scout troop. We’re forming strong friendships and learning a lot about each other. I’ve learned so much about my faith as well,” Wutwut said. 

There are about 25 volunteers who dedicate their time to leading the group, and  include parents, college students among others.  

Muslim Girl Scouts at the Islamic House of Wisdom where they performed a reenactment of Hajj ritual proceduresRana Alaouie, who’s a volunteer and has two daughters in the group says its members are taught to be confident and encouraged to take on leadership roles when they get older. “We want them to be strong and take on leadership roles in the future,” Alaouie said. She says the girls are taught about different issues such as bullying.        “We teach them that bullying is wrong and Islam teaches us to love one another,” she said.  Through the group the girls are embracing American culture and their faith.  

Hawra Yassine, 21,  and a volunteer was never a part of the group growing up, but wishes she was because of the opportunities and friendships its members form. 

 “It’s a wonderful thing to watch these girls mature and grow,” she said. 

Last Friday the group delivered a powerful performance before hundreds at the Islamic House of Wisdom’s interfaith event here  where they reenacted the ritual procedures of Hajj through prayers and songs. 

Sayyed Najah Al-Huseini spoke about the philosophy of Hajj, from unity to purification of the soul. Imam Elahi welcomed the guests and spoke about the future role and responsibility of the Girl Scouts. Imam Elahi said that Girl Scouts is about love through action, and service and sacrifice for the sake of others. Imam Elahi wished the girl scouts a joyful journey in life, a journey beautified with two words: love and action.  At the end, he thanked Hajja Amal Mazeh and other Muslim and non-Muslim leaders of the girls organization. 

“It’s a great experience, when we have our own kids we want them to be in it,” Wutwut said.

If residents are interesting in participating with the group, they can contact the Religious Relationship Committee at interfaith@gssem.org. 

 Last Friday, March 15th-
Muslim Girl Scouts Interfaith Event at Islamic House of Wisdom

Last Friday was a day of faith, sincerity, service and love at the Islamic House of Wisdom.

In a powerful performance, the Muslim Girl Scouts of Michigan presented to participants of the occasion the ritual procedures of hajj through prayers, reenactment and nasheed songs. 

Sayyed Najah Al-Huseini spoke about the philosophy of hajj, from unity to purification of the soul.

Imam Elahi welcomed the guests and spoke about the future role and responsibility of the Girl Scouts. He stated, "Wisdom is God's greatest gift to humanity, sent to us directly through the light of reason and indirectly through revelation was sent to Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Mohammad". 

Imam noted that the flower of Girl Scouts of America was product of a woman of wisdom. Beginning 101 years ago, a lady named Juliette Low invited 18 girls in the city of Savannah to teach them powerful principles of wisdom, courage, commitment, character, confidence, compassion, justice and love! Today, there are more than 3 million girls in this organization.

Continuing, Imam said that Girl Scouts is about love through action. It's about service and sacrifice for the sake of others. A perfect model of Girl scouts in Islam would be Zainab (as). She served the cause of freedom, justice and truth with maximum devotion, determination and discipline.

To understand and appreciate the position of girls in Islam, look at the Quran and the life of Prophet Mohammad and his family (pbuh). More than 1400 years ago in the time when people were ignorantly upset upon news of a baby girl, the Quran mentioned girls before mentioning boys!

He grants females to whom He wills, and grants males to whom He wills. 42:49

More than 1000 years ago Imam Sadiq (as) said: The girls are blessings, the boys are gifts, blessing brings more reward but gift brings more responsibility. 

حسنات والبنون نعمة فانما يثاب علي الحسنات ويسال عن النعمة البنات

Imam Elahi wished the Girl Scouts a joyful journey in life, a journey beautified with two words: love and action.

At the end, he thanked Hajja Amal Mazeh and other Muslim and non-Muslim leaders of the girls organization.

Sheikh Ali Hassan Gholom, an imam of a Shia community in Kuwait welcomed by Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi at IHW.

During this visit, the challenges and opportunities of the Muslim communities both in Kuwait and the USA were discussed.

Sadr Foundation Delegation Visit to the Islamic House of Wisdom Revives the Memory of Imam Musa Sadr!
Last Night, Wednesday-  Sayedah Rabab Sadr Charafeddine, leading a delegation from the Foundation visited the Islamic House of Wisdom.
 
The chairman hajj Dave Abdallah and the directors of IHW welcomed and honored the guests with a dinner participated by a group of community religious leaders, heads of organizations and some members of IHW's congregation.
 
Sayedah Rabab thanked Imam Elahi and the board members for their hospitality and spoke about the foundation's educational services to the youth in Lebanon and some other parts of the Middle East.

In his address, imam Elahi called Imam Musa Sadr one of the most charismatic characters and leaders of the world in the 20th century.  A man of God with a mind full of wisdom and vision, a heart full of love and passion and a life full of service and achievement.

Speaking about the interfaith approaches of Imam Musa Sadr, Imam Elahi honored the openness, understanding, patience and passion of Imam Sadr for unity, cooperation and peaceful coexistence of all people regardless of their religious, race and nationality backgrounds.

Mentioning the current war and bloody violence in the Middle East, Imam Elahi concluded that the path to peace according to Imam Sadr would be dialogue and diplomatic communication and not through military and bloodshed. Those who reject dialogue and choose the path of death and destruction are responsible for the tragic pain and poverty of the people in the region. 

Images by - Br. Nafeh AbuNab & Br. Mohammad Hassan Elahi - thank you! 
   

March 3rd- Health Event a Success!
A special Health Seminar & Screening took place at the Islamic House of Wisdom.

Under the organization of Haji Dr. Vicki Ashker, members of the board, volunteers and in cooperation with Oakwood Hospital, participants of Sunday's Service had an opportunity to learn about healthy living strategies in addition to have their concerns and questions answered by various participating health professionals.

Keynote speaker, Dr. Samer Salka highlighted ways to achieving a healthy heart while touching on viable methods of heart attack and Stroke prevention. Following the presentation, several medical staff of Oakwood hospital were on the scene to do free screenings for diabetes, blood sugar and high blood pressure.

Participants appreciated the information and outreach and encouraged the IHW to organize more events like this in the future. If you would like to become involved in future Health Events and planning, please reply to this message for more information!

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.