Allen Community College has just opened a brand new Interfaith Prayer and Meditation Room. The room is a dedicated place meant to serve and support students of all religious faiths to meditate, pray, experience peace, and/or reflect in a calm and neutral space.
The Interfaith Prayer and Meditation Room saw its ribbon cutting at 2pm on Wednesday, March 20th. A small group of faculty, staff, students, and members of the Iola community gathered in the main hallway of the Allen Theater building to celebrate a short ribbon cutting ceremony.
The idea of the IPMR was introduced by the co-chairs of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, Sociology Professor Anne Marie Foley and Josiah D’Albini, Director of Student Life at Allen. A faculty member at Allen was approached by a Muslim student who had one simple, yet provocative question, “Is there anywhere for me pray that is not my room?” This question highlighed the lack of mosques in Allen County and the greater Southeast Kansas region. Both Foley and D’Albini thought the question brought attention to a very real lack of dedicated space for prayers, not only from Muslim students, but for other students and community members of various religious backgrounds.
Hamza Wadi was one of two students involved in the ribbon cutting. Wadi provided a few words of wisdom before the ribbon was cut.
“The establishment of this prayer room represents a profound acknowledgement of the diverse religious and spiritual needs of our student body,” Wadi said. “It is a sanctuary where individuals of various faiths can come together and seek solace, guidance, and connection with the divine.”
The IPMR was met with praise and excitement by students, faculty, staff, and members of the community. Allen sociology professor, Anne Marie Foley shared her excitement about Allen and the community’s willingness provide this support to Allen’s diverse religious community. This sentiment was echoed by others in attendance. Badar’s closing remarks put the capstone on the excitement and acceptance shared by those that attended.
“In closing, let us embrace the spirit of unity and compassion that this prayer room embodies,” Wadi said. “May it serve as a symbol of our collective commitment to fostering a culture of acceptance and respect within our school community. Together, let us continue to strive for a future where all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs, feel welcomed and valued.”
The IPMR is located in the Allen Theater building, in room 105B. The room is open Monday – Thursday from 8 am to 10 pm and Friday from 8 am to 8pm. The room contains religious holy books, such as the Koran, the Torah, and the Holy Bible. Additionally, prayer rugs, religious icons, and other items that students of various faiths might need is provided in the room. The IPMR is also located close to the bathroom for those students who need to perform any religious cleansing prior to their religious practice. Future items necessary for religious practice will be provided as they become available.