At the Women’s Mosque of America, we affirm and respect the diversity of opinion within Islam and understand this plurality as a sign of God’s mercy. Our approach is rooted in honoring difference while cultivating shared spiritual space and mutual respect.
WMA has historically served as an inclusive middle-ground space welcoming Muslims of all sects, backgrounds, schools of thought, and levels of religious practice. Interfaith guests from all religious traditions have also been welcomed as observers and participants in community learning and reflection.
Our guiding ethos has been a “come as you are” approach, meaning attendees are encouraged to arrive dressed as they normally would outside of a mosque, fostering accessibility and ease for all.
Historically, women-led Friday jumma’a prayer services at the Women’s Mosque of America have been structured as follows:
- Adhan (call to prayer)
- Khutbah (sermon) delivered by the khateebah (one who delivers the khutbah)**
- Congregational two-rak‘ah Jumma’a prayer
- Optional congregational four-rak‘ah Dhuhr prayer following Jumma’a
The optional Dhuhr prayer has been offered to honor differing scholarly opinions regarding congregational prayer and to ensure that all congregants feel comfortable, respected, and spiritually accommodated.
Services have often concluded with a facilitated Q&A discussion circle with the imam, followed by time for tea and informal community connection.
* To support inclusivity in ritual practice, the Women’s Mosque of America has provided rose petals and clay turbahs for Shi‘a congregants during prayer.
** On occasion, a pre-khutbah bayan (talk) has been included at the request of the khateebah. This format reflects practices within the Hanafi school of thought.
