Why a mosque in Niigata?
Annur Mosque was presented by donations from Muslims all around Japan. The main objective of the mosque is to act as a religious and cultural center for the Muslim community of Niigata.
Aside from being a place for performance of daily prayers (salah), Annur mosque is intended to be the embodiment of the Islamic notion of brotherhood and unity of mankind. It will foster, on one hand, as an Islamic community, emphasis on personal intimacy, moral commitment, social cohesion, and unity inside the Muslim community. On the other hand, it will strengthen the social ties between Muslims and other communities so that Muslims will be able to leave a positive impression in the surrounding society via mirroring the glorious Islamic rules and injunctions.
Another goal of Annur Mosque is to increase the public awareness of Islam. Lessons and conferences are to be held every now and then at the mosque to show the reality and integrity of Islam as a divine religion as well as a comprehensive regimen for all aspects of life.
Further, Annur Mosque will offer a vast range of educational and social services ranging from language lessons and seminars on the history of Islam, to foreign cuisine workshops, hosting Islamic marriage ceremonies, non-profit distribution of Halal food, and others.
Annur Mosque is a spark that’s meant to ignite the engine of cultural exchange among Muslims themselves from one side, and Muslims and other communities from the other side.