Masjid Jauharatul-Islam, a historic mosque in south Phoenix, has fully repaired its air conditioning system after nearly a year without it—just in time for the summer heat.
The cream-colored stuccoed brick mosque, located near South Mountain and First avenues, was built in 1981 and holds the distinction of being Arizona’s first mosque constructed specifically for Islamic worship.
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“We are deeply humbled and grateful for the outpouring of support from Muslims and non-Muslims alike—locally, across the country, and even beyond,” said Jameelah Shamsid-Deen, secretary and treasurer of Masjid Jauharatul-Islam, The Arizona Republic reported.
The roughly 4,000-square-foot prayer space had struggled through extreme indoor heat, with temperatures reaching over 91 degrees during services last summer. But donations—prompted in part by a story in The Arizona Republic—allowed the mosque to fund the costly repairs to all three AC units.
Completing repairs earlier this year, Friday service attendance has climbed from 20 to 30 congregants, and the masjid has resumed hosting community events. In early June, it welcomed more than 100 people for Eid celebrations.
“It has been a blessing, these last several months,” Shamsid-Deen added.
Solidarity
Among the many contributions was an award by Rev. Warren Stewart Sr., the now-retired pastor of Phoenix’s First Institutional Baptist Church, as a gesture of interfaith solidarity.
Shamsid-Deen noted that the majority of the funds came from a single donor whose identity and donation amount will remain confidential, in line with the Islamic principle of zakat, or charitable giving done with humility.
Despite last summer’s challenges, Masjid Jauharatul-Islam remained committed to serving the community. Even without working air conditioning, the mosque managed to feed 600 people in need during the heat.
The Arizona Muslim Alliance also played a vital role, helping connect the mosque with broader support networks and amplifying its call for assistance.
“Your support has ensured it will remain a safe and comfortable environment for elders, children, and worshippers—especially as we approach the summer months,” said the Alliance in a statement.
Now, with its doors once again open and cool air flowing, the mosque stands as a symbol of resilience and the strength of interfaith and community bonds in Arizona.