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The Other Las Vegas by Dr. Aslam Abdullah (Islamic Horizons, ISNA publication)

Islamic Horizons is the bi-monthly publication of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA). The current issue (May/June 2009) has a 8 page story about the Las Vegas Muslim community written by Dr. Aslam Abdullah.

Click on the preview above to see the article in full page or click on the image to the left to view the higher resolution article on the Islamic Horizons web page.

Community Spotlight: Masjid as-Sabur

Masjid as-Sabur, Las Vegas, NV (2009)

Photos by Bir Azam

By Afsha Bawany

            For Imam Fateen Seifullah, the role of an Imam is much more than just a leader of five daily prayers. The Imam is a spiritual leader, a guidance counselor and sometimes a father figure - all roles Imam Seifullah finds himself in everyday. They are roles he embraces with a heavy heart and a smile.

            “The days of an Imam sitting on a platform are gone. He has to be able to relate to the people,” said Seifullah, the Imam for Masjid As-Sabur located at 711 Morgan Ave. in Las Vegas. “It’s a new job description in America, but it’s the only way to be effective in the community.”

            Seifullah’s passion to help others stems from his teenage years, which he calls more challenging than of the youth he sees at the mosque. He says an Imam has to be a problem-solver who helps quell issues in the home, in the mosque and on the street.

            “My concern is based on real experience,” Seifullah said. Often finding himself literally on the “phone-a-friend” hotline giving advice on issues ranging from dating, marital issues and other social concerns, Seifullah says it’s important for him to be the listener - not the judge. “You have to be able to be a friend.” 

Community Spotlight

LVMuslim.com is happy to announce a new monthly "Community Spotlight" section on the blog. First of every month starting March 09' the Community Spotlight post will discuss in detail the history, impact and future plans of a particular local organization, mosque or person etc.

LVMuslim.com is very proud that two of the most talented young Las Vegans have agreed to spearhead this project. They are both well accomplished in their respected fields and have graciously committed their time to this project.

Afsha Bawany

Bir Azam is a photographer and has won many awards for his work around the world.


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