The Jefferson Muslim Association was founded in 1984 by a group of concerned Muslims to address the growing needs of the local Muslim community. Initially, a small make shift location was made available in order to accommodate the Friday services and other prayers. Very quickly the need arose to have an establishment purposely built to address the community's spiritual and social needs. With sincere drive and motivation, funds were raised by many generous residents and the building known as Masjid (Mosque) Abubakr was built in 1988. This Mosque is the only purpose built structure of its kind in the greater New Orleans area thus far as its dome and single minaret beautifully illustrates. 
 

Currently, we are an umbrella organization over-seeing multiple venues including our Masjid (Masjid Abubakr), Islamic School of Greater New Orleans (I.S.G.N.O.), Dar As Salam Hall, Pineview Muslim Cemetery in Slidell, LA as well as the future construction of our new mosque. 

 

Mission

 

The mission of the Jefferson Muslim Association (JMA) is to provide the Muslim community with a fostering environment that promotes spiritual and devotional growth and to inspire true and meaningful worship with correct application of religious knowledge, so as to help every-day believers grow in faith and virtue.

 

 

Vision

 

The vision of JMA is to glorify God by, firstly, sharing the love and mercy of God in deeds and words, secondly, educate Muslims of the proper Islamic theology and methodology which serve as the bulwark against terrorism, extremism, and antipathy, and thirdly, to build communication and understanding with other faiths.

 

 

Legal Status

 

The Jefferson Muslim Association, founded during the year of 1984, is a nonprofit organization registered in the state of Louisiana. JMA holds a tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code (IRC § 501(c)(3)). JMA provides all Islamic services to the Jefferson Parish and neighboring parishes in the Greater New Orleans Area. JMA is governed and directed by an Executive Board, a non-compensated counseling body. JMA is a law-abiding organization and works closely with city, county and state agencies and authorities to ensure continuous compliance with laws and regulations of the United States (U.S).

 

 

Philosophy of Behavior

 

The arbiter of conduct of JMA is to overcome evil with good as outlined in the holy Quran 13:11 and as the prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said, “Love for people what you love for yourself and dislike for the people what you dislike for yourself.”

 

Terrorism and Violence

Terrorism is not a religious identity, rather it is a horrific behavior often justified by misapplied religious dogma. JMA, in accordance to its sole purpose and understanding of Islam, stands firm on the condemnation of all forms and acts of terrorism. The ill acts of a few misguided individuals shall not be viewed as the mainstream of Islam and Muslims. It is not sufficient to condemn terrorist activities after they happen. Muslims must be vigilant in implementing programs and sedulous in pursuing goals that build a proper understanding of Islam and subvert any terrorist activities anywhere. To promote bigotry against Islam, hate mongers exploit the legitimate concerns of the American people about terrorism. Anti-Muslim rhetoric’s compares in its claims and tactics to Anti-Semitism. Thus people of honesty and integrity of all faith traditions, especially the Abrahamic faiths, must stand united against all forms of prejudice, hatred, pernicious accusations and discrimination. The safety and security of the Muslim community is an indivisible part of the safety and security of the entire community and therefore, it is the right and responsibility of the whole community at large.

Association

JMA is not associated with any political, industrial, humanitarian, militant, or governmental entities, neither domestically nor internationally. JMA systematically and categorically distances itself from any individuals, groups or organizations shall they be officially considered anti-American by the US government. JMA does not endorse any political directions or views.

 

Current Services

JMA is open around the clock providing the five daily prayers, evening programs for children, adults and families. The center regular activities also include counseling, assistance, advice, referral, marriage and funeral arrangements.

 

 

Islamic School

JMA’s Islamic School, The Islamic School of Greater New Orleans (I.S.G.N.O.),  is a full fledged school which is approved by the State of Louisiana. JMA also currently offers after school classes for basic Qur’an reading for children and a Sunday Islamic School in addition to a variety of programs and extracurricular activities for children and teenagers. 

 

Outreach and Interfaith

Since its inception, JMA encourages involvement in outreach and interfaith activities It is with the understanding that the Holy Quran in chapter 5:48 provides the framework for cooperation among Abrahamic Faiths, that JMA has been open for all religious-based schools and organizations to visit its sites and facilities and share friendly religious dialogue. Many Christian and Jewish schools and clergy have visited JMA. JMA is actively participating in local associations and humanitarian causes. God demands justice, mercy, love, and forgiveness. These are the good deeds that people who share faith in God can and should work together to promote.

 

Security

JMA strives to provide a safe and healthy environment to its community and therefore, all grounds, hallways, and rooms are videotaped 24 hours. JMA works closely with the law enforcement authorities to ensure its entire operation free of any doubts and suspicious behaviors. Should anyone have any concerns, please report it to JMA immediately.

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