A new mosque and community hub in Blackburn, home to the first Islamic museum of its kind in the area, officially opened its doors to the public on Saturday.
Hundreds of people from across Lancashire and the North West attended the grand opening of Al-Buraq Masjid, located off Devonport Road. The event marked the culmination of a seven-year fundraising effort, driven by community donations, sponsored walks, and treks, Lancashire Telegraph reported.
Crowds began gathering around midday, filling the entrance as mosque elders and volunteers prepared for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The new building replaces the Islamic Education Centre on Addison Street and is now the focal point for prayers and religious activities for the local Muslim community. For many, the day was deeply emotional.
One visitor described it as a “beautiful moment” and a “dream come true,” while another spoke of the “long journey” that led to this achievement.
The event was attended by local dignitaries, including Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain, Blackburn with Darwen Council Leader Phil Riley, and Deputy Leader Cllr Quesir Mahmood, alongside other local councillors. To ensure inclusivity, the celebrations were spread over two days, with a special women’s event held on Sunday.
The mosque’s construction was made possible by volunteers of all ages, reflecting the unity and determination of the community. While not the largest mosque in the town, the design makes efficient use of space, offering facilities that go beyond a place of worship. Mosque management expressed gratitude to the volunteers, donors, and elders who played a pivotal role in bringing the vision to life.
One of the mosque’s most unique features is its Islamic Museum, which showcases rare artefacts from the Ottoman era. Among the more than 20 items on display, many being shown publicly in the UK for the first time, is an original key to the Kaaba in Makkah, over 100 years old.
The Kiswah, the cloth that covers the Kaaba, dating back to the early 19th century, is also part of the collection. The museum aims to serve as an educational and cultural resource for schools, community groups, and the wider public.
Beyond its religious and cultural offerings, the mosque plans to launch the Blackburn Community Fridge, a food bank initiative in collaboration with local businesses and charities. This project will support people from all backgrounds, reinforcing the mosque’s role as a center for social good.
Among the honored guests was Sheykh Lokman Efendi, a renowned spiritual leader and head of the Osmanli Naksibendi Hakkani Tarikat, who traveled from New York to attend the event.
With its blend of spiritual, educational, and charitable programs, Al-Buraq Masjid is set to become a cornerstone of the Blackburn community for generations to come.
SOURCE: https://aboutislam.net/muslim-issues/europe/hundreds-of-people-gather-to-celebrate-blackburn-mosques-grand-opening/
