“We want to make sure we put the right face on Islam,” Imam Mustafaa Islam said. “We have a vested interest in Springfield and want to see good things happen.”
The mosque underwent extensive indoor renovations in 2009.
The next phase will include more enhancements to the building, such as painting the outside, adding a new roof, a wheelchair ramp and a new restroom that is handicap accessible. The current restroom is in the building’s basement.
The members are discussing fundraising opportunities as they’d like to begin the renovations in the spring.
The renovations would allow plans for adding services such as elder care and day-care services to move forward.
Another recent addition — a series of informational lecture programs every second Sunday of the month — has been successful since beginning last September.
Islam said he’s pleased with the attendance, which averages 80 to 90 people and draws from Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus. He welcomes anyone with an interest.
“The themes have been toward a better understanding of Islam, what it’s about,” he said. “They’ve been very open-minded and came in with good questions. People with negative ideas don’t come.”
One recent lecture was given by a graduate school candidate dealing with African slaves in the Antebellum South, many who were Muslims. The Islamic Center also has covered topics such as how to eat and live healthier.
The lecture series will continue in 2016. Although the slate hasn’t been set, topics under consideration include drug addiction, mental health, finances, marriage and youth issues.
Islam welcomes input from the community as to what topics they would like to see discussed. He’s spent 40 years working with the community at OIC of Clark County.
Voluntary proceeds from the lectures, which include a meal, go toward the renovations and other programs.
Islam said he wants to share with the public that the terrorist acts committed by some militants isn’t a reflection of the faith he and his followers practice.
“Much of what is being done is by a very, very small part and is not the face of Islam,” he said. “Islam does not preach violence or the killing of innocent people.”
The imam is grateful that the community hasn’t mistaken Masjid An-Nur as part of that. The center has never received threats or had destruction of its property.
“The biggest thing is ignorance,” Islam said. “That’s the same way with other things. We fear what we don’t know or understand.
“We are contributing members of the community. We have a good relationship with our city government and do a lot of work in the community.”
For more information on the Masjid An-Nur Mosque and its programs, call 937-322-4909.
About the Author