Basingstoke mosque to hold public open day about Islam

The Basingstoke Muslim Welfare Association will hold the event at Albirr Mosque, in Sarum Hill, on Sunday, November 1, from 11am until 4pm.

The free event will feature guided tours of the mosque, displays, talks, question-and-answer sessions and opportunities to watch Muslim prayers.

Chair of Basingstoke Muslim Welfare Association, Shuab Ahmed, said: “Through hospitality, education, and meaningful dialogue, we hope to strengthen community cohesion, foster lasting friendship and contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious society.”

Albirr Mosque in Sarum Hill (Image: Google Maps)

Visitors will be welcomed from 11am, when they will receive exhibition walkthroughs.

At 12pm, there will be a presentation about Jesus in Islam and an open question-and-answer session.

Mr Ahmed said: “As many people from the Christian faith, other faiths and non-faith do not know that Jesus is also a prophet of Islam.

“There will be a short presentation followed by a question-and-answer session, so anyone can ask about Islam, sharia, want to find out about anything relating to the mosque or Muslims, and to clarify any misconceptions that are being circulated on social media.”

The Association has also organised displays of Jesus and Mary as they are seen in the Quran.

At 1.15pm and 2.30pm there will be live prayer demonstrations.

Visitors will be able to have their names written in Arabic, and complimentary drinks and snacks will be available throughout the day.

Mr Ahmed said that he hopes people will take away “values that unite us, mutual understanding of Islam, the Muslim community and customs, and the mosque, as well, learn about Islamic worship.”

He said: “They will be welcomed in the mosque and feel free to come and find out. Hopefully they will build a lasting friendship with them.”

He said he is looking forward to celebrating “the values that unite us, increase understanding between the faith and non-faith communities, the general public and our neighbours.”