The Muslims in the city of Gatineau
The city of Gatineau is located in the western part of the province of Quebec in Canada. It is on the other side of the Ottawa River, across from the federal capital city of Ottawa. The two cities have close social and economical ties due to this proximity. Gatineau has approximately 260 000 inhabitants, among which live around 4500 Muslims according to recent statistics. The city of Gatineau is a destination for an increasing number of immigrants, and particularly Muslim immigrants.
Within the city, Muslims enjoy an excellent reputation and have a good relationship with the society.
Eight years ago, a place was rented to be used as a prayer hall for the regular prayers, and soon after, Friday prayers were offered on a regular basis. This place is far from being sufficient to accommodate all the Muslims in the city. A large number still head for Ottawa despite the distance, for some because of lack of space in Gatineau and, for others, because they want to pray in a real mosque. Meanwhile, Muslim population keeps increasing and their responsibility in the city grows larger too.
It soon became a priority to start thinking of establishing a mosque where Muslims can pray, bring their children; and to connect with spiritually and morally. What was needed is a place that will represent Muslims and Islam in the best manner. It was time to have a symbol to unite the community and to bring it together. When the prophet, peace be upon him, migrated to Medina, wasn’t establishing the mosque the first act he performed?
