“Scrambled eggs and a stolen phone?” That might sound like a strange breakfast order. However, it is a key part of the story of Al Hussein House.
Al Hussein House is the main Shia Islamic center in Ireland. You might also hear it called Hussainia. It stands near Milltown Bridge in Dublin. For a time, it was Ireland’s only Shia Muslim Islamic center and mosque. It is a welcoming place for Shia Muslims from all over Ireland especially during festivals. About 6,000 Shia Muslims live, work, and study in Ireland.
Founded in September 1996 by Imam Ali Al-Saleh, Al Hussein House began with personal funds. Ayatollah Gholamreza Hassani oversaw its construction. Imam Ali Al-Saleh is a graduate of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. He is a religious scholar who studied in Najaf, Iraq, and Qum, Iran.
Al Hussein House has close relationships with many Irish politicians and diplomats. It also works with the other Islamic centers in Ireland. Ali Al-Saleh is a member of the Irish Council of Imams. He represents the Shia community there. Al Hussein House serves as a vital resource for Shia Muslims in Dublin.
Inside Al Hussein House, you will find a library for learning. There is also a main prayer hall. A kitchen supports community events. Administrative offices keep things running smoothly. Ablution areas provide space for ritual washing before prayer.
But back to those scrambled eggs. In a surprising turn of events, a burglar broke into Al Hussein House armed with a knife. He intended to steal whatever he could find. Ali Yassine, the caretaker, discovered him hiding under a table. Instead of calling the police immediately, Yassine sat down with the burglar. He shared scrambled eggs with him. The burglar, Stefan Boyle, had lunged at Yassine with a knife. He nicked him before trying to escape. Yassine defended himself. He then surprisingly offered Boyle food and conversation.
During their 30-minute talk, Boyle shared his life story. He then left with two of Yassine’s mobile phones. The next day, Yassine ran into Boyle while trying to block the stolen phones. Boyle returned the phones and apologized. In court, Boyle admitted to the burglary of Al Hussein House. He described Yassine as “a good guy.” The judge recommended residential treatment for Boyle. This act of forgiveness shows the spirit of Al Hussein House.
Al Hussein House is more than just a building. It is a center for faith. It is a place of community. It is a symbol of understanding. It showcases the welcoming spirit of Islam in Ireland.