Have you ever felt the warmth of a community embracing you? The IIS-Mainz Moschee is more than just a place of worship. It is a heart beating in the city of Mainz. Founded in 1995 in Frankfurt by Muslims from diverse backgrounds the Islamic Information and Service Center IIS opened its Mainz branch in 2003. This was no ordinary mosque. It aimed to be Mainz’s first German-speaking mosque. Many children of immigrants in Mainz were more fluent in German than in their parents’ languages. The mosque offered sermons in German helping them understand their faith better.
The IIS-Mainz Moschee’s significance goes beyond language. It’s a vital social hub. Imam Edin Ljajic describes a shift from mosques being primarily places for guest workers to connect and speak their native languages. Now it acts as a common home. Here people openly discuss problems seeking help whether it’s spiritual social or psychological. The imam’s ability to understand them offers invaluable support.
The IIS also operates an information center on Flachsmarktstrasse. This neutral space aims to offer help and support without fear. They provide educational events interreligious exchanges and resources aimed at promoting understanding and respect. Free informational material is available. Imam Ljajic emphasizes the importance of providing accurate information because people fear what they don’t know. Many misunderstandings about Islam currently exist.
The Friday prayer at the IIS-Mainz Moschee is a central event. Imam Ljajic calls it a festival. He compares it to Sunday Mass for Christians or the Sabbath for Jews. It takes place every Friday at 1 pm in winter and 2 pm in summer lasting around 30-40 minutes. This communal prayer unites Muslims much like the festivals of sacrifice and Ramadan.
Even local businesses reflect the importance of the Friday prayer. The Asia Markt Rahimi closes for an hour every Friday. While one employee attends the IIS-Mainz Moschee the owner visits a mosque outside Mainz. He prioritizes prayer explaining that it is more important than business. He believes that God will reward such devotion. His actions highlight how deeply religious practices are embedded in daily life.
Religious beliefs influence daily choices including food. Halal dietary guidelines are crucial. The Asia Markt Rahimi reflects this. They removed alcoholic beverages from the inventory. The previous owner had sold alcohol but Rahimi removed the mango liqueur and African beer. He emphasizes that he sells enough drinks without alcohol.
The IIS-Mainz Moschee works to dispel negative perceptions of Islam. The Federal Ministry of the Interior recognizes that Muslims face marginalization and exclusion due to their faith. Debates surrounding immigration especially after events such as September 11th and the rise of Pegida have led to increased hostility. Through education and intercultural exchange the IIS actively counters these negative trends building bridges and fostering understanding. The IIS-Mainz Moschee shows that a place of worship can be a powerful center of community education and intercultural understanding. It is a testament to faith resilience and the importance of open dialogue.