By: mkweb.co.uk
Source: http://www.mkweb.co.uk/
UK – MILTON Keynes’ (Buckinghamshire) first ever Islamic Centre is nearing completion. The facility is much-needed for the Muslim community, according to Mohammed Ageli, chairman of the Milton Keynes Muslim Association which has funded and will run the building.
The MKMA have been forced to rent out several buildings across the city over the years, and Mr Ageli is looking forward to being able to call the Islamic Centre in Coffee Hall home.
“We’re really happy and there is a lot of potential here,” said Mr Ageli.
A particular source of satisfaction for Mr Ageli comes with the space provided for women to pray.
Mr Ageli said that during Friday prayers, there have been occasions when women have not been able to pray due to a lack of space at other facilities.
But with an ablution room – a place for people to wash before praying – being created specifically for women, that problem should no longer occur.
“It’s really difficult for women to have a place to pray in Milton Keynes,” said Mr Ageli.
“Friday prayers are the big event of the week but women are not obliged to come, so it’s annoying when women are put to the side.
“We’ve worked really hard to have a facility for women to pray so we’re particularly proud of that aspect.”
The association’s work with the Food Bank will also be able to continue, while more children can join their Olive School, which supplements 60 children’s education by teaching them how to read and write in Arabic.
The facility also has a room to let out for community use, and has 68 parking bays.