About Redbridge Muslim Community Centre (RMCC)
Redbridge Muslim Community Centre (RMCC) is a welcoming space for all who believe in building a strong, inclusive, and resilient community, serving as both a place of worship and a hub of social engagement. RMCC offers a wide range of services designed to support individuals and families at every stage of life, including a weekly Maktab programme that nurtures children’s Islamic knowledge and character, nikah services conducted in a dignified and family-friendly environment, and two Jumu’ah prayers each week to accommodate a growing congregation. The centre also brings the community together through well-organised Eid ṣalāh, opens its doors to people of all faiths through educational tours and visits, and provides dedicated support and guidance for new Muslims. In addition, RMCC runs diverse youth programmes focused on personal development, social awareness, career guidance, and sports, all aimed at strengthening faith, fostering unity, and building a confident, engaged future generation.
What is Islam?
Islam is a holistic way of life centred on sincere devotion and submission to the will of God. Muslims believe in one Loving and Caring Creator, known in Arabic as Allah, who is described through attributes such as The Compassionate, The Merciful, The Just, and The Wise. At the heart of Islam is gratitude and worship of God alone, following the path of the Prophets including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally Muhammad (peace be upon them all), with the Qur’an revealed as God’s final guidance for humanity. Life is viewed as a temporary test leading to an eternal afterlife, and worship extends beyond prayer to living with humility, integrity, patience, and kindness. Alongside prescribed acts such as prayer, charity, and fasting, Islam emphasises community, compassion, and collective responsibility, encouraging believers to support one another and contribute positively to society.
The Five Pillars of Islam
At the heart of Islamic belief are the core acts of worship and practice known as the Five Pillars of Islam, which form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and daily life.
Shahadah (Faith)
The Shahada is the declaration of faith and the entry point into Islam. It affirms belief in one God and the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him). Muslims declare it at least once in their lifetime and regularly recite it in daily prayers. In essence, it states: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger,” forming the foundation of Islamic belief and sincere faith.
Salah (Prayer)
Prayer (ṣalāh) is the second Pillar of Islam and a core obligation, performed five times daily from dawn to night. It includes ritual purification, Qur’an recitation, and physical acts of worship, and may be performed anywhere, though congregational prayer in the mosque is encouraged. All prayers face Makkah, with Friday prayers holding special communal significance.
Sawm (Fasting)
Fasting (sawm) is observed during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, when Muslims abstain from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset. Those who are ill, pregnant or nursing, and children are exempt. Ramadan is especially significant as it commemorates the beginning of the revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
.png)
Zakat (Almsgiving)
The fourth Pillar of Islam emphasises charity, which is given in two forms: obligatory and voluntary. Obligatory charity (zakah) is a set contribution, typically 2.5% of accumulated wealth, used to support those in need and promote social responsibility. Voluntary charity (sadaqah) is given freely and sincerely, carrying both social and spiritual significance.
Hajj (Pilgrimage)
Muslims who are physically and financially able are encouraged to perform Hajj to Mecca once in their lifetime, during the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. Pilgrims worship at the Ka‘bah, wear simple white garments symbolising equality, and perform sacred rites rooted in Islamic history, with the pilgrimage ending in a joyous celebration.
