Imam Kawsar Hossain has returned to San Quentin after a nearly two-month leave of absence to the Middle East.
The purpose of the Imam’s trip was to fulfill the Islamic religious obligation of hajj, (visiting the Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia), as well as other religious study. In actuality, the Imam performed the Islamic ritual of umrah, which is performed the same as hajj at any time other than the first several days of the 12th month of the Islamic calendar.
Hajj is a religious obligation on every Muslim who is financially and physically able to attend at least once during their lifetime.
Muslims were eager to hear about his trip and to benefit from the lessons he learned during his sabbatical.
Imam Hossein appeared fit and well rested and he blessed everyone with his usual radiant smile and humble demeanor. He seemed enthusiastic to be reunited with the San Quentin Muslim community and has stated he would relate his experiences over the next several weeks to the congregation.
The San Quentin general population is invited to attend Jumah prayer services on Friday to hear the Imam speak.
