Anne Arundel Muslims Hope To Open New Masjid In Annapolis

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The Muslim community in Anne Arundel County, Maryland announced their plans to purchase a house in Annapolis for use as a permanent masjid in the state capitol, making it the second facility of the Islamic Society of Annapolis.

The community began renting an office space in downtown Annapolis in 1996 for juma’ prayers catered primarily to Muslims who worked in the area. In 2006, a 6000 sq ft modular masjid opened in Gambrills on a 20-acre property and became the Makkah Learning Center. Now, the Islamic Society of Annapolis (ISA) wants to establish a permanent presence in Annapolis proper.

The single story house sits on 3.5 acres in a residential neighborhood, but because of ample space for parking and a long drive way, ISA officials don’t anticipate any problems with neighbors.

ISA President Rashid Iqbal said the county doesn’t require public hearings for religious sites opening in residential areas as long as they are on more than two acres.

060112-ISA-new-bldg2The 2,300 square foot house floor plan is already well suited for a masjid, with the front door located at the rear of the new prayer area. The house, built in 1971, is beautifully landscaped with large trees and an in-ground pool in the back,  The property should be able to park 50 cars, said Iqbal.

The house costs $665,000 and about $75,000 of renovations need to be made including the installation of a sprinkler system, handicap ramp, and wudu areas. ISA has raised about $300,000 so far and settlement is scheduled for June 30, 2012.

ISA officials are reaching out to area masajid for donations and loans. The board also instituted a fundraising strategy whereby supporters are to get charitable commitments from ten people; so far about 75 supporters are involved.

The new masjid will be used for juma’ and daily prayers, as well as Sunday school.

ISA’s vision for its main campus at 814 Brandy Farms Lane, Gambrills, Md., the 20-acre Makkah Learning Center, includes boys and girls high school buildings, a community cafeteria, sports facilities, and a media center with a radio and TV broadcast station.

Makkah Learning Center serves the communities of Glen Burnie, Annapolis, Bowie, Odenton, Crownsville, Gambrills, Millersville, Severn, Severna Park and surrounding towns.

The Islamic Society of Annapolis encourages support and donations to complete the purchase of the new Annapolis masjid.  If you wish to donate, please make checks payable to “Islamic Society of Annapolis” and mail to: P.O. Box 6309, Annapolis, MD 21401.

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