Assalamu-alaikum, peace be upon you. On behalf of the Muslim Students' Association of the University of Rochester, we would like to welcome you to our community. Our mission is to serve Muslims and those interested in Islam by organizing and providing religious, academic, and social activities.

The MSA serves Muslim students by providing access to local religious resources, fostering a spirit of community, and by helping those interested in increasing their understanding of Islam.

A key function of the MSA is to promote awareness of Islam and Muslims. An understanding of other faiths and cultures is indispensable for global and local peace, especially in the current global context.

In addition to weekly meetings and community activities, the MSA holds an annual 'Fast-a-thon' and Ramadan Dinner at the end of Ramadan. Participants observe and/or take part in the Muslim practice of fasting for one day. The money raised and contributed by local businesses supports local food banks.

The MSA also organizes and hosts Islam Awareness Week during the Spring in order to inform others about the culture, beliefs, people, and history of Islam. We hope that, through the MSA's activities, we can help Muslims and people of other faiths alike increase their knowledge of Islam.

Announcements

Volunteering at Mary's Place, Saturday 17 September 2011: If you are nterested in volunteering with refugees, join the MSA from 2-4PM at Mary's Place Outreach (414 Lexington Ave, Rochester NY 14613). The center is always in need of volunteers, and this is a great opportunity to meet and build relationships with local refugees. If you're interested and/or need a ride, please email uofrmsa@gmail.com by midnight tonight (16 September 2011). Volunteering can include tutoring, helping out at the center, or just spending time with the kids, and it's open to youth or adults of all ages!

Volunteering at the center will be on the third Saturday of every month, so if you can't make it this time, don't worry! For this month, we'll be having a game day, a nice time for the kids to be able to relax after the start of the school year; feel free to bring any games you think would be fun, or come with ideas for group games to play once we're there. If you know anyone else who may be interested, spread the word!