Message From A Convert Sister:

I remember taking my Shahada my heart filled with faith for the life changing experience

ahead of me. To my surprise, the Masjid I visited gave me a very cold shoulder. The eyes of the women glared at me; I did not receive a greeting nor was a smile offered to me. No one was

willing to listen to me, to help me, to welcome and teach me the basic understandings of Islam. My attempts to socialize and be part of the community always led to rejection. As a result, I stopped attending the Masjid, and my views towards Islamic communities became extremely negative. Without a Masjid, or the support, my love and expectations for Islam began to fade away. My Iman became weak, and I began to reconsider my Shahada. I did not feel this was right for me; I did not want to be part of this community.

The Turning PointI met a sister who was part of New Muslim Care who quickly became a friend to me. She attempted to explain to me that the actions of one Masjid were not a true reflection of the teachings of Islam. I wanted to believe her, but at that point all my experiences with Muslims had been very negative. However, she did not give up on me. She convinced me to visit a new Masjid with her. I was shocked by how welcoming they were! They each welcomed me in to their Masjid with arms wide open. It was so different than my previous experiences. There was not one woman in the Masjid that did not approach me, and offer their help and hearts to me. Having a community to support me had the biggest impact on my views of Islam. The Masjid became my second home, and the people within it became my family. I did not feel neglected or alone as I had a large group of people who constantly reminded me of Allah. I am so thankful to have a community to rely on. New Muslims like me need the continuous support to maintain their strength and faith in Islam. These small acts can make the biggest difference on one’s life.

Anonymous Sister in Islam.

Message From A Convert Brother:

At the age of 15, I became friends with a few Muslim brothers in my school. Through their kind actions and character I became interested in their beliefs. They introduced me to Islam. The more knowledge I gained the more I interest I gained in their religion. Soon after, with the help of my high school friends, I became a Muslim. I feared my family finding

out about this act, and as a result had to keep this a secret. Acts such as growing a beard, or going out with friends, surfing the internet became a challenge for me. There was a Masjid next door to my home that became a place for me to pray and learn more about Islam. For months I was able to keep this a secret from my family. However, one day, their questions and doubts were answered. After praying at the Masjid next door, I walked out to find my father outraged. He was driving by, and had noticed me in the midst of the others walking out. I was dragged back home. Arguments rose between us, and the beatings started. Violent threats turned to violent hits. I cannot forget that day, bruises engraved my body. I thank Allah that the month of Ramadan was soon approaching. With the support of my friends, my reliance and faith in Allah strengthened. However, no matter how determined I was the conditions at home did not improve. My parents ordered to take me to the temple. I refused, over and over again. They left me with two choices: I had to choose between my family or Islam. I wanted both, wanted to be accepted, loved and nurtured by family with Islam in my heart. But I was kicked out of the house, and as a result started to seek shelter from one masjid to another. I ran out of food and I did not have even a penny to support myself with. I became desperate and turned back to my family. They let me back, but placed strict restrictions; I could not see my friends, leave the house alone, grow a beard.

A Door of OpportunityA small door of opportunity opened when I was introduced to Mercy Mission. They would find ways to communicate with me, provide me with Islamic courses and the support I needed. I am not able to practice my religion, but Islam is still in my heart. I am waiting to complete high school, and thanks to Mercy Mission will have a place to confide in. The support of the Muslim community has saved the candle of faith inside of my heart.

Anonymous Brother in Islam.

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“I was dragged back home. Arguments rose between us, and the beatings started. Violent threats turned to

violent hits.”

Messages From Two Converts

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