Wondering how Burbank Islamic Center became a cornerstone of faith. It started with a simple need back in the summer of 2012. Burbank Islamic Center began as just a prayer hall. It accommodated daily prayers and the weekly Friday service.
Since then, dedication from volunteers and community members allowed for expansion. The center now includes a multi-purpose room and a large women’s prayer area. The Burbank Islamic Center also boasts top-notch restroom facilities. Wudu stations have been added. With community help, many things were acquired for Friday game night. These include a ping pong table, foosball, air hockey, and more. The parking lot was doubled. A children’s playground was created.
Burbank Islamic Center strives to integrate Islamic teachings into daily life. In 2014, the center held a comedy show. Game Night 2.0 was launched. The first “M” games were also held. The support has been overwhelming.
Burbank Islamic Center welcomes everyone with open arms. The center is about advancing the Muslim ummah through the youth. It follows the Quran and Sunnah of the prophet. The center believes in developing an ummah that promotes good and forbids evil.
The Islamic Center of Southern California also has a rich history. It began in 1952. It now stands as a pillar of the American Muslim identity. The center owes its success to the blessings of God and tireless efforts. Leaders and volunteers have shaped this community. Dedicated individuals left their jobs to serve. Moms cooked meals for hundreds during Ramadan. Spiritual leaders inspired with moving sermons. Volunteers set up prayer rugs for Eid.
Initially, in 1952, the Islamic Center of Southern California was the only mosque in Greater Los Angeles. It occupied rented property on Fountain Avenue. Many early attendants were foreign Muslims attending local universities.
By the early 1960s, the center moved to City Terrace. This location was near California State University, Los Angeles. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 led to community growth. The mosque attracted attendees from South Bay and Orange County. In 1966, Ishaa and Tarawih prayers were first held.
In 1968, the center moved again to Jefferson Park. Juma prayer, Tafsir on the Quran, and a weekend Islamic school were established. Formalized Islamic marriage services began. The first Eid prayer took place in 1969.
Continued growth prompted another search for a larger property. In the late 1970s, the center moved to 434 Vermont Avenue.
Tragedy struck in early 2000. The mosque was vandalized multiple times. Swastikas were drawn. A rock was thrown through a window. Police increased security. Officials from the Jewish community condemned the hate crime.
The Islamic Center of Southern California actively engages in interfaith activities. The Director of religious affairs attended Rosh Hashanah services in 2010. During the controversy over the construction of a mosque near the 9/11 site, leaders from various faiths supported the Islamic Center of Southern California. Since 2001, the center has hosted an Open Mosque day. This improves relations between Muslims and non-Muslims.
The center also houses New Horizon School – Los Angeles. The Burbank Islamic Center and the Islamic Center of Southern California stand as beacons of faith. Both foster community, education, and interfaith dialogue.