WHO ARE WE?

Established in 2017, the Mecca Center Convert Engagement Committee has remained dedicated to providing holistic support to newcomers & longtime converts to Islam through engaging community programs, events, educational projects, and group activities. We believe that every convert deserves a safe space to engage, ask questions, and build lasting bonds of brotherhood/sisterhood with their fellow Muslims!

Committee Co-Chairs:
Beverly Thomas & Irene Kapustina

Committee Members:
Michele Mohamed
Moises Dorantes
Bre Shaw
Michele Shaar

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY!

We organize a wide range of programs throughout the year with many opportunities for new Muslims from all walks of life to learn and engage with other converts and the Mecca Center community as a whole. We welcome you to our programs & our community!

To join our community of converts & stay up-to-date on our events & initiatives, please fill out our New Muslim Introduction Form to be added to our engaging & active WhatsApp community that provides converts with peer-based spiritual support throughout the week!

You may also view our Convert Events Calendar and join us at one of our upcoming events. We would love to see you!

JOIN OUR CONVERT COMMUNITY

 

OUR PROGRAMS

  • Coffee & Cookies for Converts
    • A bi-weekly casual gathering where we share thoughts, experiences, & offer support – all while enjoying some delicious drinks & snacks!
    • Coffee & Cookies takes place every other Saturday downstairs in the Old Youth Lounge (across from the Banquet Hall) from 11am – 12:30pm.
    • Open to converts & their immediate family; no registration is required – walk-ins welcome! (See Convert Events Calendar for more info)

 

  • ConverTsations Monthly Forum
    • A monthly program open to all! ConverTsations is a discussion and creative public forum that explores convert experiences featuring incredible guest speakers sharing their perspective & insights from a convert lens! 
    • The goal of this program is to generate personal and communal reflections and discussions about our life in Islam and be a source of knowledge, support, and personal growth for Muslims from all walks of life. 
    • This event takes place on the last Sunday of the month. (See Convert Event Calendar for more info)

 

  • Mecca Center Convert Mentorship Program
    • An ongoing partnership program that matches new Muslims with an experienced convert or born-Muslim, under the guidance of our Mentorship Committee. The purpose of this program is to provide our new Muslim brothers & sisters with someone they can turn to for support, community, and companionship as they embark on their new journey into Islam!
    • To join our program & become a mentee OR a mentor:
    • Please submit the Mentorship Program Interest Form and our team will reach out with next steps!
    • For more information on the Convert Mentorship Program, click here.

 

  • Companionship Circle with Dr Ahmed Arafat, Resident Scholar
    • A part of the Suhbah Program: a monthly program for brothers and sisters of Mecca’s convert community dedicated to fostering spiritual growth and expanding Islamic knowledge.
    • Sheikh Ahmed Arafat follows the prophetic style of teaching through companionship. The session consists of a lecture on a given topic followed by a discussion and Q&A. The program is for both men and women, and is exclusive to The Mecca Center’s convert community. The program takes place every first Wednesday of the month, after Maghrib prayer in the Youth Lounge (Old Wing). (See Convert Event Calendar for more info)

 

  • Convert Quran Seekers Program
    • In collaboration with the Mecca Quran Institute, this Arabic and Quran Program is specifically designed for converts learning to read the Quran in Arabic! All students attend free of charge and will be tested & placed in one of three levels: beginner, intermediate, or advanced. These in-person classes take place every Saturday at 10am in The Mecca Center new wing classrooms.
    • Enrollment is now open! Converts can register for the program here: http://bit.ly/MQIQS24

 

  • Convert Socials & Outings
    • The Convert Social Program Committee organizes periodic social events, gatherings, and opportunities to enjoy fun experiences together as converts!
    • Past convert social events include:
      • Turkish Festival Outing in Rosemont, IL
      • Eid-al-Adha Convert Family Picnic
      • Sisters’ Henna Night
      • Palestine Run 4 Peace 5k run / 1-mile walk

 

 

ANNUAL EVENTS

  • Mecca Center Annual Converts’ Conference
    • Our annual converts’ conference is a unique space of opportunity to connect, learn, reflect, and, most importantly, empathize. The conference is open to all – converts, heritage Muslims, and those who are interested in Islam.
    • The conference features presentations and workshops by prominent scholars, activists, and community leaders dedicated to sharing their knowledge and expertise engagingly and practically.
    • Our 4th Annual Conference for 2025 will be held on April 25th, 26th, & 27th.
    • To learn more and/or register to attend, CLICK HERE 
    • Shahada Celebrations for New Muslims

 

  • Shahada Celebrations for New Muslims
    • A yearly event celebrating all of our new community members who embraced Islam over the previous year.

 

  • Ramadan Iftars & Eid Celebrations
    • The Convert Committee hosts Ramadan iftars & Eid celebrations for the convert community & the Mecca community as a whole. Join us as we celebrate the most blessed month of the year and build bonds & community ties!

 

 

OTHER RESOURCES & SERVICE EVENTS

  • New Muslims Resource Center at TMC Library
    • Located at the Mecca Center Library on the second floor, the Converts’ Corner offers an array of books, periodicals, and other helpful resources tailored specifically for converts. Items may be checked out. 

 

  • Certificate of Shahadah
    • A legal certificate declaring the convert’s religion of Islam; signed by the resident Sheikh (the documentation is helpful to converts during travel, especially for Hajj and Umrah, and other life matters).

 

  • Assorted Educational Workshops & Classes
    • We offer one-time educational workshops and classes throughout the year. 

 

 

  • New Muslim Resource Guide: 
    • a book of helpful resources (local, national, online) for Muslims who seek resources to improve their Islamic knowledge and lifestyle.
New Muslim Resource Guide

 

  • Multilingual Educational Resources: 
Multilingual Educational Resources

 

Contact Us:

630-241-2000 
convertsupport@meccacenter.org
www.meccacenter.org