Visiting the Mosque

The Canadian Islamic Centre (Al-Rashid Mosque) has an open door policy to all members of the extended community. We welcome visitors and even have an extensive program in place, should you be interested in just visiting the mosque. We offer a tour of the worship areas, a presentation on religious concepts and even a mini museum, put together by our GIRLS VOLUNTEER GROUP. Please feel free to call the office to make arrangements, should it be for an individual or a group the Islamic Centre will be happy to accommodate.

Q: What is a Mosque?
A: A Mosque is a place of worship used by Muslims. The English word "Mosque" is derived from its Arabic equivalent, Masjid, which means "place of prostration." It is in the Mosque that Muslims perform their prayers, a part of which includes placing the forehead on the floor.

Q: How is a Mosque used?
A: Mosques play a vital role in the lives of Muslims in North America. The primary function of the Mosque is to provide a place where Muslims may perform Islam's obligatory five daily prayers as a congregation. A Mosque also provides sufficient space in which to hold prayers on Fridays, the Muslim day of communal prayer, and on the two Muslim holidays, called Eids, or "festivals."

Q: Is a Mosque a holy place?
A: A Mosque is a place that is specifically dedicated as a place of prayer. However, there is nothing sacred about the building or the place itself. There is no equivalent of an altar in a Mosque. A Muslim may pray on any clean surface. Muslims often pray in public places.

Q: How big are Mosques?
A: In North America, Mosques vary in size from tiny storefronts serving a handful of worshippers, to large Islamic centres that can accommodate thousands.

Q: Do Mosques welcome visitors?
A: Mosques in North America welcome visitors. Tours can be arranged at most facilities. It is always best to call Mosque administrators before arrival. They will want to make sure your visit is enjoyable.

Q: What are the distinctive features of a Mosque?
A: The musalla, or prayer hall, in each Mosque is oriented in the direction of Mecca, toward which Muslims face during prayers. In North America, Muslim worshippers face northeast. Prayer halls are open and uncluttered to accommodate lines of worshippers who stand and bow in unison. There are no pews or chairs. Members of the congregation sit on the floor.

Because Muslim men and women form separate lines when they stand in prayers, some Mosques will have a balcony reserved for the use of women. Other Mosques will accommodate men and women in the same musalla, or they may have two separate areas for men and women.

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