August 26, 2016
Dear Family & Friends of ICSC,
Many believe that being in nature promotes spiritual growth. Over the past year, we have explored majestic mountains at our sunrise hikes, but for the first time this Saturday we will adventure out at sunset for a different glimpse of the nature around us.
Another type of motion happens this Sunday when the Sunday School kids practice their annual Hajj simulation. Stop by the Social Hall to check it out.
Looking forward to seeing you at the Center!
In peace,
Islamic Center of Southern California
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Listen to Last Week's Friday Khutba (Aug. 19)
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Feature Story 
Celebrating our Greatest Generation:
Recounting Life Memories & Challenges at First Senior Day
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The lecture hall was full of light last Sunday. Familiar faces were overcome with smiles as senior members of the Islamic Center took the spotlight and shared their personal stories at the first Senior Day program on Aug. 21. As the country celebrated National Senior Citizens Day, so did the Center honor the community's "greatest generation."
"I have a request for the young people... while they are still here, because life is not forever." (Muhammad)
Many of the stories recounted dreams of a new life in America, a country full of hope and opportunity, as well as the challenges of being the first Muslims in Southern California.
"We came to this country as immigrants from Egypt in 1969," said Dr. Mahmoud Abdel-Baset. "We were not seeking financial gain, but to free ourselves from oppression, to embrace a new way of life. And we heard of a place where we can be whoever we want to be."
Community member Rashida spoke about the cultural difference between her native Bangladesh and the United States. "Back home, women cannot attend the mosque. It's a blessing here. I can come listen to the khutba at the masjid."
"And we heard of a place where we can be whoever we want to be." (Dr. Mahmoud Abdel-Baset)
Others remembered a time when few mosques existed in the Los Angeles area. "When I came to L.A., there was only one mosque in East Los Angeles in a garage," said Mansoor. "And another one in a small apartment on St. Andrews Place," which is the former site of the current ICSC.
As the event came to a close, community member Muhammad took a reflective tone, "I have a request for the young people... while they are still here, because life is not forever. Go to your elders and hear some of their life stories and what they went through."
This event was the first session of the newly launched Senior Program at the Islamic Center. The Social Services and Religious committees have teamed up to create programs targeted to members 60 years and older. For more information or suggestions, please email Kristen Stangas, ICSC Communications Coordinator.
in a game of ping pong - the room erupted in laughter. |
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This Weekend
(8/26 - 8/28)
1:00 p.m. - Jumma'a Prayer & Khutba
Hassan Zeenni
5:30 a.m.
- Saturday Morning Circle
Recitation, Reflection, Breakfast
Asim Buyuksoy
10:00 a.m. - ICSC Food Pantry
Volunteers arrive @ 9:45 a.m.
SUNDAY (8/28)
11:15 a.m. - Highlights of the Qur'an
Mahmood Waseeq
"Islam and Love"
12:00 p.m. - Speaker
Asim Buyuksoy
"Qur'an: The Final Revelation to Mankind"
*SUNDAY SCHOOL SPECIAL PROGRAM:
HAJJ SIMULATION*
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Next Week
MONDAY (8/29)
6:30 p.m. - Qur'an Recitation Class
Asim Buyuksoy
THURSDAY (9/1)
6:30 p.m. - Message of the Qur'an Class
Asim Buyuksoy
1:00 p.m. - Jumma'a Prayer & Khutba
Dr. Saleh Kholaki
5:30 a.m.
- Saturday Morning Circle
Asim Buyuksoy
10:00 a.m. - ICSC Food Pantry
Volunteers arrive @ 9:45 a.m.
12:00 p.m. - Labor Day Picnic
Griffith Park
We will sell halal BBQ for $5
Bring your favorite yard games!
*NO SUNDAY SCHOOL OR SUNDAY PROGRAM on 9/4 or 9/11*
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If you are interested in sharing your time and talents with ICSC, please send us an email with your name and phone number and let us know how you want to get involved. Contact Kristen Stangas.
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ICSC Food Pantry
For the past 10 years, ICSC has been serving groceries to the local community. Each weekend, approximately 25 volunteers meet in our cafeteria to take part in this event. We have partnered with HopeNet to provide high quality food such as organic meat and fresh produce. If you are interested in being a part of our team, come join us at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday! Doors open to the public at 10:30 a.m. View recent photos from our Food Pantry
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This week, we had a young helper with a cheerful demeanor and a strong work ethic. The food pantry is a great service opportunity for volunteers of all ages.
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Other Volunteer Opportunities
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Sign-In Table assistance is needed at various events
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Greeters at our Friday Prayers and Sunday Program
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Experienced photographers and videographers to help take photos at our events
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Experienced babysitters to help with children at events
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Prayer Times
We are open for prayers five times a day, every day. Iqama is ten minutes after the athan is called. You can find prayer times on our website.
"He is with you wherever you are."
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