Light of Islam Bookstore, insha Allah

As many MuslimMatters readers know, I am in the midst of planning Light of Islam, a nonprofit bookstore set to open in April 2008 in Houston. It will serve both Muslim and non-Muslim customers in the greater Houston area. More than a bookstore, it will be an educational center offering classes, lectures, panel discussions, workshops and more. It will have a comfortable, dynamic atmosphere where customers will feel free to browse, ask questions, and attend a range of classes and events.

Why is it needed?

* Many non-Muslims in Houston are curious about Islam but can't find a source of accurate information. They realize that there is more to this religion with a billion adherents than the negative images often associated with it. Light of Islam will teach them about the true tenets of the religion.

* There are many new converts to Islam who are unsure how to learn more about their new religion. Some are nervous about going to a mosque, and mosque-based classes are sometimes publicized primarily within the Muslim community. Light of Islam will provide new Muslims with a comfortable atmosphere in which they can increase their knowledge.

* Many Muslims in this city seek well-organized, well-publicized and regularly scheduled classes and the opportunity to participate in workshops and other activities that increase their social and civic engagement. Light of Islam will provide classes and multimedia materials addressing Islamic issues as well as events conducted by interfaith leaders and activists.

As the Muslim population in the US continues to grow and world events bring Islam under ever closer scrutiny, education will be the key to achieving interfaith understanding in the years ahead. Both the Qur'an and ahadith are filled with exhortations to gain knowledge and to share the message of Islam with others. Light of Islam Bookstore offers the opportunity for both.

As I mentioned, Light of Islam is a nonprofit effort. It's not about personal financial gain; it's about serving the community. As with most nonprofits, raising money to start up and sustain the store is challenging, and I'm asking my Muslim brothers and sisters to help by making a tax-deductible donation to Light of Islam. You can donate in two ways:

• Go to the web site and make a donation via PayPal.

• Mail a check payable to Light of Islam to PO Box 590123, Houston, TX 77259-0123.

I also ask readers to say dua for the success of the bookstore, and I pray that Allāh rewards those who have already donated and those who will.