Before you stands a testament to faith and community the Southern Maryland Islamic Center. This beautiful masjid serves the tri-county area of Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s. Since its opening in 1987, the Southern Maryland Islamic Center has been a hub for local Muslims.
Imagine back in the early 1970s Calvert County had few Muslims. They prayed at home because they were too few to gather. As more Muslim doctors arrived to work at Calvert Memorial Hospital they began to meet for Friday prayers in the hospital chapel. By the 1980s this small group wanted a permanent home.
A Christian resident and Dr. Issam Damalouji, an early Muslim resident, donated six acres of land across from the hospital. Upon this land a 7448 sq ft mosque was built. Completed in 1986, it opened its doors in 1987.
But there is more to the story of the Southern Maryland Islamic Center. A quarter-century ago a generous donation of $500000 came to help build the mosque. Few paid attention to where the money came from. The benefactor was none other than Saddam Hussein.
At the time Saddam was a quiet U.S. ally. Later, with Saddam on trial in Baghdad for crimes against humanity, this caused problems for the Muslim community in Calvert County. Vandals smashed windows. False rumors spread accusing members of being terrorists or Iraqi agents.
Despite the challenges many Calvert residents rallied behind the Southern Maryland Islamic Center. Some neighbors even referred to it as “The Mosque That Saddam Built”. The story involves a visit from Saddam’s uncle. He had come to Dr. Damalouji for treatment.
The grateful uncle arranged for Damalouji to meet with Saddam in Baghdad. Saddam offered assistance. Damalouji requested $500000 for the mosque.
However accepting money from Saddam presented a moral dilemma for some. One of the planners had fled Iraq because of Saddam’s terror. But at the time Saddam was loosely allied with the Reagan administration. The planners decided to accept the money believing it belonged to the Iraqi people.
After the September 11th attacks the Southern Maryland Islamic Center faced increased scrutiny. Despite this the community persevered. The Southern Maryland Islamic Center stands as a symbol of faith resilience and community. It welcomes all.
The central part of the Southern Maryland Islamic Center is an octagon. Another half-octagon is joined to the building’s east side. Atop the central section sits a large green dome with clerestory windows around the drum. A square minaret topped by a small green dome stands at the northeast corner.
Today the Southern Maryland Islamic Center continues to thrive. It hosts Friday prayers Ramadan Iftars and Eid prayers. The center also organizes youth lectures and interfaith programs. All are welcome to learn about Islam and meet Muslims. The Southern Maryland Islamic Center embodies the spirit of community unity and faith.