Thomastown Mosque open day to build bridges

Nilufer Kurtuldu with Aya, Ilkay Dil, Bahattin Yoruk and Remzi Unal. Picture: Shawn Smits.

The Thomastown Mosque will open its doors to the public on Sunday in a bid to bring an end to misconceptions about Islam.

The mosque is one of 15 from across Victoria which will welcome the community as part of the Islamic Council of Victoria’s (ICV) Mosque Open Day.

ICV president Mohamed Mohideen said that although mosques are foremost a place of worship for Muslims, they are also a place of community harmony and offer a support network for people in need.

He said there are about 200,000 Muslims living in Victoria.

“We want the Victorian community to look beyond what is portrayed on Muslims and build dialogue and friendships while sharing mutual respect and understanding,” Mr Mohideen said.

“Only through getting to know one another on a person level can people of different beliefs build bridges of understanding and tolerance. ”

Congregation members will hold guided tours of the mosque, as well as discussion about Islamic beliefs and the positive role of Muslims and mosques in Australian society.

The Meadow Heights Mosque and the Serenity Foundation Quba Mosque in Somerton are also taking part in the open day.

Details: www.facebook.com/icv.official