The Islamic Center of Wheaton organized this successful Open Mosque Day for non-Muslim visitors a few months ago.

This video summarizes the main highlights of the event, together with the reactions of some of the visitors, starting with Paul Bishof, a Christian Pastor who lives in Wheaton.

“I live in Wheaton, and I’ve driven by this mosque for months now.

I was very happy to see the signs advertising an Open House.

So like many other folks, I’ve been able to come over.

I compliment my Islam brothers and sisters on what you’ve done to build a bridge with the community.

I would say as a Christian pastor, more of this is what we need to do to build bridges with each other.

It doesn’t mean we need to agree theologically, but we can know each other, love each other, and be an example to the global community that violence and discrimination does not need to characterize the relationship between Christians, Jews and Muslims in the world.

So I thank you again, and the food was great.

Thank you”

Another visitor started talking in Arabic:

“Marhaba. Ismi Lana (Welcome. My name is Lana)” she said.

“I heard about this event from my sister who knew about it from Facebook.

Today was great. I think it was really important for us.

I live right down the road.

So it was important for me, who is a neighbor to this Islamic center to meet people and to come in and see the place.

So I really enjoined today to get to know some people, and getting a tour of the mosque.

So I’m really grateful there was this Open Mosque Day and I could come in and meet people.”

“Shukran (thank you).”

A third visitor said:

“My name is Elene.

I live in Wheaton, and I heard about this event from a friend.

I’m very glad I came. Everybody was so friendly…”

For more reactions of non-Muslim visitors, don’t miss this five minutes video for a summary of this excellent initiative.