Grande mosquée de Cergy

“A mosque, when it rises in the city, says one simple thing: Islam has its place in France.” These words, spoken by Manuel Valls at the inauguration of the Grande Mosquée de Cergy, resonate deeply within these walls. The Grande Mosquée de Cergy stands as a testament to years of dedication and perseverance by the Muslim community of Cergy. It’s a beacon of faith, a symbol of integration, and a hub of community activity. The Grande Mosquée de Cergy is more than just a building. It’s a dream realized. A dream that began nine years prior with the creation of the Federation of Muslims of Cergy (FCM), which united ten different Muslim associations under one banner. This federation, led by Hamida Maïga, spearheaded the project and brought the vision of the Grande Mosquée de Cergy to life. Imagine the faithful, finally bidding farewell to the gymnasium where Friday prayers were once held. Now they gather in this magnificent three-level mosque. This 2,000 square meter edifice can accommodate up to 1,500 worshippers. The Grande Mosquée de Cergy is a bustling center of activity. It houses two large prayer halls, one for men and one for women, each with their own ablution rooms. There are also two kitchens, a tea room, an office for the Imam, a funeral room, classrooms, and a multipurpose hall. The sheer scale of the place speaks to the vibrant community it serves. The Grande Mosquée de Cergy was built solely through donations from the faithful. Over 3.7 million euros were raised. This incredible feat of community fundraising demonstrates the deep commitment of the community. Even now, fundraising continues to repay the interest-free loan of 2.2 million euros that allowed the project to be completed. The Grande Mosquée de Cergy stands as a powerful symbol of community spirit and self-reliance. This impressive mosque wouldn’t exist without the strong support of Dominique Lefebvre, the mayor of Cergy. He championed the project from its inception, even encouraging the formation of the FCM. Lefebvre granted a 99-year lease for the land and guaranteed 50% of the FCM’s bank loan. His dedication played a vital role in making the Grande Mosquée de Cergy a reality. The Grande Mosquée de Cergy also embodies the concept of an “Islam of France”. Imam Tahar Mahdi emphasizes the mosque’s commitment to local values and financial independence. The mosque has refused financial aid from foreign embassies, choosing to rely on the support of its own community. This commitment to self-sufficiency and local integration sets the Grande Mosquée de Cergy apart. The Grande Mosquée de Cergy stands tall, a testament to faith, community, and the integration of Islam into French society. It is a space of prayer, learning, and community gathering. It is a symbol of hope and unity.