Code of Conduct for Members and Guests of the ICP

These rules and guidelines have been drawn up to guide those unfamiliar with the etiquette of the Houses of Allah and to preserve the traditional and welcoming culture of this masjid, reflective of the whole Muslim world.

General rules

·        Worshipers should treat all guests, uncultured, and newcomers, whether Muslim or not, with kindness and respect.

·        All worshipers and guests are encouraged to dress in their best modest clothing, conduct themselves in a friendly and considerate manner, strictly avoiding expletives, yelling, aggression, and unpredictable or agitated behavior. Anyone behaving in a threatening or erratic manner will trigger security responses. Failure to listen to any staff may be perceived as a threat.

·        Security, board, and staff should be notified about suspicious persons or behavior.

·        All complaints and disputes should be brought to the ICP Board or appropriate directors. Members should avoid approaching each other with correction, but directing them to the religious director or imam for education, or board or security as appropriate.

·        To assist masjid presentability, members should not leave any personal belongings in common areas.

·        Members should strictly avoid playing music or anything religiously repugnant on ICP property or during any ICP functions.

·        Men should at least wear a short sleeve shirt and shorts that cover their knees. Izars may be provided for prayer. Member and worshiping women should wear loose fitting clothing covering all but their hands, face, and feet. Guests should wear “church clothes” of long dresses, loose trousers, and cover arms and chest, and wear a headscarf. Guests may see visitor’s guidelines for more info.

Prayer Hall Rules & Etiquette

·        The adhan should be called on time every time. The iqamah must be held for the religious director imam if present. This is emphasized during special functions or lessons taking place in the prayer hall. Any late congregations or late prayer leaders should keep a low voice if other programs are being held.

·        Miḥrāb space of the imam is reserved for him only to use, whether for his professional or personal effects. Prayer spots behind the imam or in the front row are not to be reserved.

·        No one may use the microphone except for masjid board, staff, or those appointed. No religious instruction or programming may take place without the permission of the religious director.

·        Within 10 minutes of any prayer beginning or ending, worshipers should engage in dhikr, recitation, and nawaafil, while avoiding social media, loud communications, and antics.

·        At ALL times, members should be respectful and considerate to anyone engaged in worship, so as not to be at fault for distracting them and decreasing the value of their worship at the House of Allah.

·        Pets are not allowed. Small children who follow the good instruction of their parents and staff are welcome. Whenever babysitting is provided, all eligible children must be registered and follow sitter instruction until picked up by guardian.

·        Worshipers should keep phones silent during sermons and prayers and avoid speaking, using their phones, or giving in to any distractions during sermons.

·        All pubescent males must stay [and pray] with the men, without mixing with the women when they are present, and without ogling at them. All women should avoid the men’s area, except to pass through along the side, or during functions in designated areas.

·        It is discouraged to use the prayer hall as a pathway between the two exits, or lobby and offices.

·        Women’s partition may be opened completely during large gatherings, and halfway during jumuah or other presentations to allow viewing for some and privacy for others. Partitions may be drawn across at all other times, with a sufficient opening to allow following prayer movements.

Detail 3

To be continued.