“A place of welcome for all.” These words greet you as you step onto the grounds of the MN Muslims Community Center, a beacon of faith and community in the heart of Bloomington. The Center’s story began in the early 1990s, born from the desire of a small group of families seeking a place to practice their faith. They met in homes, then in a variety of locations across Richfield, Bloomington, Shakopee, and Eden Prairie. Their prayers were answered in the mid-1990s when they embarked on a journey to build their own Masjid, a place of worship. The foundation was laid, and in 1999, during the sacred month of Ramadan, the new Masjid was officially inaugurated. The MN Muslims Community Center was a significant achievement for the Muslim community in Minnesota, as it was the first Masjid built from the ground up in the entire state. Most other Masjids were built by converting existing spaces.
The community rallied together, raising funds to purchase the land and construct the 8,000 square foot Masjid. The center’s reach expanded further in 2009 when they acquired the neighboring property. This new space became the Al Rahma Clinic, providing free healthcare to the needy and uninsured in the community. The clinic has served over 300 patients each month, operated by volunteer physicians and medical professionals. It serves as a model for other Masjids across Minnesota and has been recognized by both local and state leaders. The Al Rahma building is also home to the MCC School, offering Islamic education for children, from preschoolers to adolescents.
Today, the MN Muslims Community Center stands as a testament to the growth and resilience of the Muslim community in the South and Southwestern suburbs of Minneapolis. It serves over 700 families, and with over 150,000 Muslims in the Greater Minneapolis/St. Paul area, the center remains a vital hub, welcoming people from all walks of life for religious, social, and educational programs. In its inclusive environment, the center hosts fundraisers, interfaith lectures, community education, and civic schooling, creating a vibrant space where people can connect and learn. The center’s location is also conveniently situated in Bloomington, minutes away from the Mall of America, Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport, major corporate offices, and a variety of hotels, making it easily accessible for visitors. The MN Muslims Community Center is more than just a place of worship. It is a living testament to the strength of faith, the power of community, and the unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming space for all.