Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett

“Humanity comes first,” a voice echoed near the Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett. This powerful sentiment, expressed by Tanvir Ahmad, president of the center, encapsulates the spirit of this unique place of worship. The Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett, nestled just off Peninsula Boulevard in Hewlett, has been a beacon for the local Muslim community since 2013. It stands as the only mosque in the Five Towns, serving a vital role for families across the area. The story of the Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett, however, begins much earlier, in 1987. Tanvir Ahmad and his brother-in-law, Eqbal Rasheed, lived in the house that would eventually become the mosque. They resided there until 2005. After moving out, they considered renting or selling. But recognizing the need for a local place of worship, they transformed their former home into the Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett. The nearest Islamic center at the time was in Valley Stream. The Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett now serves over 200 families. It has even drawn new Muslim families to the Five Towns, attracted by the good school district and the presence of a mosque. During Ramadan, the mosque comes alive with special prayer sessions. These sessions, lasting two hours each evening after breaking the fast, demonstrate the vibrant religious life of the center. The Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett prides itself on its open-door policy. Ahmad emphasizes that the mosque welcomes everyone, regardless of their faith. The center has fostered positive relationships with local police and neighbors. This is particularly important given the lack of a parking lot. The mosque relies on the kindness of its neighbors for parking during events. Ahmad and Rasheed, deeply rooted in the Five Towns for over thirty years, have built strong bonds with the community. They believe the large Jewish population in the Five Towns has eased their integration. The community is accustomed to places of worship. In return, the Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett actively contributes to the community. It offers Islamic classes for children on Saturdays and a Sunday school. The center also donates food to Muslims Giving Back. Ahmad himself has coached soccer for the Hewlett Lawrence Soccer Club. The Islamic Center Of Five Towns Masjid Hewlett demonstrates that faith and community can intertwine to create something truly special.