The Mecca Center

ConverTsations - Convert Chronicles: Empowering Steps to Islamic Identity
2024-07-28 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
ConverTsations: A community discussion open to everyone!
Join us for an inspiring discussion with the members of The Mecca Center’s convert community about successful actions and choices that empowered them on their journeys towards Islamic identity.
Guests: The Panel of Convert Brothers and Sisters of The Mecca Center Community
Refreshments provided by Han Cafe

Night of Quran & Madeeh
2024-08-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Join us for a spiritually uplifting Night of Quran & Madeeh on Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, at 7:00 PM at The Mecca Center!
Experience the beauty of Quranic recitations and traditional praise with our esteemed guests: Ustaz Mustapha Al-Jaafari, Imam Muhammad Kasi, Ustaz Yaser Zabadneh, and Imam Hassan Kasi.
No registration required.

Journey through Spain
2024-08-11 08:00 - 2024-08-18 17:00 | IL
Take part of an unforgettable journey through Spain with Miftaah Institute and The Mecca Center! Join Shaykh Tariq Musleh, Mufti Abdul Wahab Waheed, and Shaykh Daood Butt as we delve into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of this mesmerizing country. Prepare to be enlightened, inspired, and captivated as we explore the beauty of Spain together. #SpainJourney #MiftaahInstitute #TheMeccaCenter #DiscoverSpain

Speaking Truth to Power: Seeking Justice in Times of Genocide
2024-08-16 18:30 - 20:00 | IL
Join us for an engaging program on seeking justice in times of genocide next Friday, August 16th at 6:30pm! We will have Dr. Hassan Abdel Salam, a human rights expert and co-founder of the Abandon Biden movement discuss meeting Palestinian prisoners, his research overseas, and how we as a community can speak truth to power during these difficult times!

Rise Together: The Role of Community in Advocacy
2024-08-16 18:30 - 20:30 | IL
We all have a part to play in advocating for freedom and justice. Join us for a conversation on where we as a community members fit into the world of organizing and activism!

ICNA Relief X MVMT Back 2 School Drive
2024-08-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Ready for the new school year? Join the Mecca MVMT and ICNA-Relief on FRIDAY, August 16th at 7:00pm for our Back2School Drive to donate school bags to refugee families. Our goal is to purchase 300 backpacks at $25 each! Details will be posted on the ICNA Relief website, click the button below to get started. Please donate as much as you can to help children be prepared for school.

Donate Now

Interfaith Book Club - Session 3
2024-08-17 13:30 - 15:00 | IL
Connect with those across faiths to build bridges of understanding through discussions of chosen books in our collaboration with First Church of Lombard. This meeting’s book of discussion will be: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This will take place on Saturday 8/17 at 1:30 PM

Protest for Palestine Transportation
2024-08-21 14:30 - 20:30 | IL
The Mecca Center will be providing a bus to and from Union Park on Wednesday, August 21st to join the “Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine and March on the DNC”
Busses will leave from The Mecca Center at 2:30PM and will leave from union park at 8:30PM. Register to secure your spot on the bus!

Community Night and Qiyam - Shaykh Dr. Hassan Abu Nar
2024-08-23 20:00 - 22:00 | IL
Join us for a community night and qiyam led by esteemed taraweeh imam of Masjid Al-Aqsa, Shaykh Dr. Hassan Abu Nar. Starting at 8PM, Shaykh Hassan will lead Maghrib salah, provide a dars in English until Isha, and conclude the night with Isha and qiyam with du’a qunoot for Palestine.

MVMT: High School Boys & Girls Six Flags Great America Trip
2024-08-24 | IL
Register here for an upcoming Six Flags Great America trip for high school brothers and sisters on August 10th, under the supervision of adult group MVMT leads. The cost is $40 per brother/sister. Cost does not cover food or other expenses, so please bring money with for anything else you’d like to purchase. Transportation will be provided to and from six flags, leaving Mecca at 9AM and coming back at 8PM. Please reach out to aymin@meccacenter.org with any questions.

Bidayabook Workshop
2024-08-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Calling all Quran teachers in the Chicagoland area! 📚✨ Join us at The Mecca Center for the Bidayabook Workshop, led by Shaykh Ahmed Alsheikhi. Dive deep into the art of teaching Quranic words and enrich your teaching skills. Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to learn and grow together!
Register now for just $10 by clicking the green button below! Sign up by August 20th to receive a free gift.
Register Now

Taste of Mecca
2024-08-24 15:00 - 20:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Join us for our first ever ‘Taste of Mecca’ event! Showcasing diverse community cultures and traditions. Vendors from various restaurants, each representing a different country, will serve their best dishes live outdoors at the Mecca center back parking lot presented by Mecca Connect. 🍽 🚚🍔
Saturday August 24th from 3PM – 8PM
Registration required for entry only – $5 per family

ARABIC-ONLY PROGRAM: Shaykh Dr. Amjad Rasheed
2024-08-25 16:00 - 19:00 | IL
Join us for an Arabic-only program with renowned Jordanian Scholar Shaykh Dr. Amjad Rasheed as he discusses the importance of learning about our Deen that which we cannot afford to be ignorant of. General admission is free, but registration is required. Childcare is available for a fee of $5 per child, and registration is required as well–all at this link.

ConverTsations - Faith and Wellness: Nurturing Mental Health for a Stronger Connection with Allah
2024-08-25 18:00 - 19:30 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Join us for our monthly ConverTsations! On Sunday, August 25th, at 6:00 PM, Sr. Irene and special guest Dr. Ahmed Arafat will delve into “Faith and Wellness: Nurturing Mental Health for a Stronger Connection with Allah.”
This insightful discussion will explore practical strategies to enhance our well-being and deepen our relationship with Allah (swt). Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen both your mental and spiritual health!
Refreshments will be provided by Han Cafe! Registration required.

MQI Women Program Event
2024-08-29 10:00 - 13:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
You’re invited to join the Mecca Quran Institute for an insightful and engaging informational luncheon, where you can learn about the enriching MQI Women’s Programs. The event will feature a special guest speaker, Dr. Ahmed Arafat, who will share his expertise and perspectives.
Event Details:
– Date: Thursday, August 29th
– Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Ticket Information:
– $25 per person
– Late Registration: $30 after August 22nd
– *Note: No tickets will be sold at the door.*
Child Policy: No children are allowed at the event. However, childcare is available for children ages 3-9 at a rate of $10.
Register with the button below:
Register Here

Quran Tour: Illuminating Hearts, Empowering Orphans Worldwide
2024-09-13 19:30 - 21:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
On Friday, September 13th, The Mecca Center will host a soul-enriching event brought to you by the Zakat Foundation of America. This special evening, beginning after Maghreb Salah, is a part of the Quran Tour: Illuminating Hearts, Empowering Orphans Worldwide.
The event will feature inspiring sessions with esteemed scholars, including Imam Ibrahim Aldardasawi, Sh. Hassan Saleh, Sh. Naser Hussein, Dr. Ahmad Arafat, Sh. Tariq Musleh, and Sh. Ahmed Alsheiki.
No registration required | refreshments will be served.

Meet the Author: Hena Khan
2024-09-14 14:00 - 15:30 | IL
We are honored to have renowned author, Hena Khan, who wrote “Curious George, It’s Ramadan” Join us for her brand new children’s book, based on a true story, of a Muslim Girls Basketball Team in Wisconsin, called “Peace Academy”. *SWISH! Cheer courtside for a Muslim teen as she joins an all-girls, hijab-wearing basketball team and learns that she’s much more than a score. This energetic graphic novel is inspired by a true story!*
We will learn more about the inspiration behind the book. What it took to write the story and learn more about the characters. There will be a chance for Q&A.
Attendees can also get a discounted and signed copy of the book.
About Hena Khan:
Hena Khan has been publishing books for children, including many that center Pakistani American and Muslim characters, for over two decades. She writes award-winning books in a multitude of formats, including picture books, middle grade fiction, pick-your-path adventures, and graphic novels. Her stories are often centered around her culture, community, friendship, and family, and draw from her own experiences. Hena’s bestselling novels include Amina’s Voice and More to the Story. She is also the author of the Zayd Saleem Chasing the Dream, Zara’s Rules, and Super You! series. Hena’s acclaimed picture books include Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns, Under My Hijab, and It’s Ramadan, Curious George. She holds an MA in International Affairs from The George Washington University, has served on the board of We Need Diverse Books, and is a member of the Children’s Book Guild of DC. Hena lives in her hometown of Rockville, Maryland.

Explore Mecca Day
2024-09-15 14:30 - 17:00 | IL
You’re invited to Explore Mecca Day! 🕌
Join us on Sunday, September 15th, for an exciting afternoon at The Mecca Center! Discover our vibrant community, take guided tours, dive into our programs, and explore all that we offer. Don’t miss out on visiting Han café, fitness room, library, and more!
Bring your family, ask questions, and let’s make this day unforgettable! See you there! ✨

MECCA Moves! 5k & 1K Race, Walk, & Roll
2024-09-21 08:00 - 12:00 | Downtown Burr Ridge, IL, County Line Square Shopping Center, Burr Ridge, United States
Saturday, September 21, 2024 in partnership with the Village of Burr Ridge!
This event is part of our wellness initiative to promote fitness, physical and mental health in our community for all ages and abilities. Featuring an official USATF certified 5K course, medals, fun and food!
All proceeds benefit the amazing work of our beneficiary, DuPage Pads, a local non-profit organization dedicated to helping our neighbors facing homelessness.
Register now with the button below!
REGISTER HERE

Interested to be a sponsor to highlight your business and services?
Register at https://forms.gle/EzezyGi7hwL5eUaW9

Campfire Cooking
2024-09-22 16:00 - 18:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Join us on September 22nd from 4PM – 6PM in the Mecca Center back parking lot for Campfire Cooking! Teens and adults are welcome to learn to make paella, chicken fajitas, and skillet cookies!
Registration required | $10 per person
Children under age 12 must be with an actively participating adult due to open fire.

ConverTsations: The Role of Community in Islam
2024-09-29 17:00 - 18:30 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Our upcoming ConverTsations on Sunday September 29th, will focus on “The Role of Community in Islam: Supporting Each Other in Faith.” Come be part of this open discussion, where our esteemed panel will share insights on the power of community in nurturing faith, understanding, and support.
Host:

Michele Shaar

Guests:

Sheikh Yousef Wahb
Amy Chiang
German Cutz
Susan Ismail

Registration is required. ☕️ Refreshments provided by Han Café

The History of Palestine: A Century of Resilience and Perseverance
2024-10-01 18:30 - 2024-10-29 20:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
The History of Palestine: A Century of Resilience and Perseverance ✨
Join us for an enlightening series on Palestinian history, presented by Tarek Khalil, AMP Education Chair, in collaboration with AMP Chicago. 📜 These sessions will explore key moments from 1882-1949, shedding light on Palestine’s rich history and enduring spirit. 💪🇵🇸
🗓 Starting October 1st, 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at The Mecca Center
📍16W560 91st St, Willowbrook, IL 60527

Proper Quran Recitation Halaqa with Sh. Sinan Hafez
2024-10-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Join our Men’s Quran Recitation Halaqa, open to all skill levels. Engage with the Quran in a supportive, welcoming space and experience the blessings of gathering together.
Taking place every Wednesday in the Main Musallah, 1 hour before Ishaa Prayer.

Quran Night with Dr. Mustafa Khattab and Imam Samir Ali
2024-10-04 18:30 - 19:30 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Join us after Maghreb prayer on Friday, October 4th, for a spiritually uplifting Quran Night at The Mecca Center in collaboration with The Furqaan Project. Immerse yourself in the beautiful recitation of Imam Samir Ali, followed by nasheed, and be inspired by the wisdom of Dr. Mustafa Khattab, translator of the Clear Quran. Don’t miss this evening of reflection and faith!
Open to all!

Getting Our Minds Right: Understanding the Islamic Worldview in the Modern Age
2024-10-04 20:00 - 21:30 | IL
Getting Our Minds Right: Understanding the Islamic Worldview in the Modern Age 🌟
📅 Friday, October 4, 2024
🕗 After Ishaa at 8PM
Come gain a deeper understanding of the Islamic worldview in today’s modern world with Dr. Ahmed Arafat and Sh. Fouad Elgohari in this special session. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to strengthen your faith and connect with the community. See you there! 🙌💫

Mecca Connect Fall Nights
2024-10-05 18:30 - 21:00 | Johansen Farm, 710 W Boughton rd, Bolingbrook, 60440, United States
🍂🍁 Mecca Connect is back with our Fall Edition! 🍁🍂
Join us at Johansen Farms for a fun-filled evening with family and friends. Sip on apple cider, cozy up by the bonfire, slide down the two-story air slide, visit the petting zoo, and so much more! 🍎 Let’s kick off the start of fall with this festive celebration the whole family will love!
Ages 3-10: $25
Ages 11 & up: $30
2 & under: free
Please purchase your tickets before September 30th, no tickets will be sold at the door. Arrive at the farm by 6:30PM for check in!

How Will the Election Affect...
2024-10-07 20:00 - 2024-11-04 21:00 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
Join us for a conversation on how the upcoming election will potentially affect our lives!
The event aims to explore how the upcoming election could impact various important issues, such as:

Taxes
Climate Change
Immigration/Foreign Policy
And more!

The sessions will be held every Monday, starting on October 7th, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The Mecca Center’s Multi-Purpose Room (MPR). It’s an opportunity for community members to engage in meaningful conversations and gain insights into potential political and societal changes due to the election.

The Prophetic Blueprint: Imam Nawawi's 40 Hadith with Sh. Yousef Wahb
2024-10-11 19:00 - 20:00 | IL
Join us for The Prophetic Blueprint: Imam Nawawi’s 40 Hadith

Twice a month on Fridays
A weekly series with Shaykh Yousef Wahb

Don’t miss this enlightening opportunity to deepen your understanding of the hadith!
October meeting dates:

Friday, October 11th
Friday, October 18th

Interfaith Book Club: This Green and Pleasant Land
2024-10-12 14:00 - 16:00 | IL
Connect with those across faiths to build bridges of understanding through discussions of chosen books! This meeting will take place at the First Church of Lombard.

Recharge: Covering the Mothers of Jannah with Ustadha Shereen Salama
2024-10-12 20:00 - 21:30 | Mecca Center, 16W560 91st Street,, Willowbrook, IL, 60559-2304, United States
🌟 Recharge: Covering the Mothers of Jannah 🌟
Join us for an inspiring evening on Saturday, October 12th at 8:00 PM with our honored guest speaker, Ustadha Shereen Salama! 💫
📌 Meet in the back parking lot
Serving Melt n Dip and Senor Jalapeno!
Registration required | This event is designed for college students and young professionals (18+)
