Stories from our partner congregations
The Mosque Foundation
Mosque Foundation - Bridgeview, IL
On July 31, 2008, Faith in Place helped the Mosque Foundation became the first solar mosque in the nation. Now when Muslims wash for Friday prayers at the Bridgeview mosque, they wash with water warmed by the sun, rather than by natural gas.
“Without the help of Faith in Place it would have been very difficult to become the first solar Islamic Center in the nation,” said Dr. Zaher Sahloul, President of the Mosque Foundation, one of the largest mosques in the United States. “Green is the color of Islam, but Muslims like other faith groups need to translate the symbols into action. We will continue to work hand in hand with our faith partners in order to raise awareness about environmental issues and play an active role in protecting our earth and our living.”
Faith in Place staff members Sara Spoonheim and Zainab Khan initiated the project in 2007, gathered bids, helped with grant applications to cover over half the costs, and ably saw the project through. The $23,000 system was purchased in part with a State of Illinois rebate and a grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation.
Solar hot water systems are sensible, economical options for congregations that host soup kitchens, homeless shelters, or schools. These systems can also provide heat by tying into existing forced air furnaces or radiant floors.
"The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) taught us to be environmentally conscious and to protect this earth, and that is apparent in many of his traditions. He told us to never waste water even if you have a river flowing at your door,” said Imam Jamal Said. “We will be mindful of His teachings as we wash for prayers with this water warmed naturally by the sun."