“Serving the spiritual needs” could easily be the motto of the Islamic Center of Passaic County. This mosque and Islamic center stands as a beacon of faith in Paterson. It is located on Derrom Avenue.
The Islamic Center of Passaic County’s story began in 1990. It was established in the Eastside Park area. Today the Islamic Center of Passaic County serves over 25000 people.
South Paterson is nearby. It boasts the largest Muslim community in the United States. The Islamic Center of Passaic County is among the largest Islamic centers in New Jersey and the US.
Expansion marked a new chapter. In 2016, a branch opened in Clifton. Then in 2021, a third branch named Masjid Younis opened in Prospect Park. The original Paterson mosque houses the Islamic Center of Passaic County’s bookstore.
In 2019, a historic event took place. Governor Phil Murphy visited the Paterson branch. It was the first time a New Jersey governor attended a mosque town hall. Jack Ciattarelli, Murphy’s 2021 opponent, visited the Omar Mosque nearby.
The Islamic Center of Passaic County also extends a hand in times of need. In March 2022, a donation drive supported Ukrainian refugees. The community and non-Muslims contributed generously.
Interfaith dialogue is a key mission. Imam Mohammad Qatanani has served since 1996. He founded the “Muslim-Christian Dialogue of New Jersey.” The Islamic Center of Passaic County has hosted Interfaith Iftars.
The Islamic Center of Passaic County faced challenges too. Hate-fueled calls threatened the mosque after the 2017 New York City truck attack. Callers made profane threats to burn the mosque. They even threatened to kill the president of the Islamic Center of Passaic County.
The Islamic Center of Passaic County provides various amenities. These include wash and restroom facilities. It offers parking, women’s facilities and wheelchair access.
The Islamic Center of Passaic County also focuses on education. The ICPC Storytime program offers quality daycare services. It caters to Muslim children aged 2.5 to 5. The Islamic Center of Passaic County balances Islamic and traditional English education.
The Islamic Center of Passaic County Inc has a board of directors. Nadia Kahf, Mohammed Huzien and Karim Maasarani are among the members. Othman Suqi, Aref Abuhadba, Ibrahim Fahmy and Mohamed El Filali also serve.
As you leave the Islamic Center of Passaic County, consider its enduring impact. It is a place of worship, community and service. The Islamic Center of Passaic County strives to create a welcoming environment. It builds bridges across communities. The Islamic Center of Passaic County remains committed to serving others.