Boys Qiyam

Boys Qiyam Date: Friday, January 10, 2025 Time: 7 PM to 9:30 PM Cost: None Type: Family Night Audience: B𝗼𝘆𝘀, G𝗶𝗿𝗹𝘀, M𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 F𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 Food: Bring a dish to share Join us for an inspiring evening as we delve into the life and legacy of Abu Bakr (RA), the first Caliph of Islam. This event, part of the “Caliphs & Conquests: Chronicles of Islamic Leadership” series, will explore the remarkable leadership, unwavering faith, and significant contributions of Abu Bakr (RA) during a pivotal period in Islamic history. In this lecture, Mufti Aasim Rashid will illuminate: The pivotal role Abu Bakr (RA) played in the early days of Islam. His exemplary leadership during the Ridda Wars, preserving the unity of the Muslim community. His profound love and dedication to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Lessons from his life that remain relevant for Muslims today. This is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Islamic history, draw inspiration from the lives of our great leaders, and connect with the local Muslim community. Summary On Friday, January 10, 2025, from 7 PM to 9 PM, the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier had the privilege of hosting Mufti Aasim Rashid from Detroit for an insightful lecture at our masjid. The program commenced with a beautiful Qur’an recitation by a student from our Hifdh-Ul-Qur’an Academy, setting a reflective atmosphere. Mufti Aasim Rashid then delivered a compelling lecture on the life of Abu Bakr (ra), highlighting his exemplary character and unwavering devotion. The lecture emphasized Abu Bakr’s profound role as both a follower and leader, underscoring his integrity, truthfulness (Siddiq), and selfless sacrifices, particularly his immediate acceptance of Islam, his protection of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and his pivotal role during the Hijra. Key lessons included the importance of righteous role models, unwavering faith, and the impact of loyalty and sacrifice. Following the enriching lecture, attendees enjoyed a vibrant potluck dinner, fostering a strong sense of community. Over 70 individuals participated, contributing a diverse array of culinary delights, including various cuisines and pizza. This communal meal provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and connection, further strengthening the bonds within the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier.

Youth Iftar

Youth Iftar Date: Friday, January 10, 2025 Time: 7 PM to 9:30 PM Cost: None Type: Family Night Audience: B𝗼𝘆𝘀, G𝗶𝗿𝗹𝘀, M𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 F𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 Food: Bring a dish to share Join us for an inspiring evening as we delve into the life and legacy of Abu Bakr (RA), the first Caliph of Islam. This event, part of the “Caliphs & Conquests: Chronicles of Islamic Leadership” series, will explore the remarkable leadership, unwavering faith, and significant contributions of Abu Bakr (RA) during a pivotal period in Islamic history. In this lecture, Mufti Aasim Rashid will illuminate: The pivotal role Abu Bakr (RA) played in the early days of Islam.His exemplary leadership during the Ridda Wars, preserving the unity of the Muslim community.His profound love and dedication to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).Lessons from his life that remain relevant for Muslims today.This is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Islamic history, draw inspiration from the lives of our great leaders, and connect with the local Muslim community. Summary On Friday, January 10, 2025, from 7 PM to 9 PM, the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier had the privilege of hosting Mufti Aasim Rashid from Detroit for an insightful lecture at our masjid. The program commenced with a beautiful Qur’an recitation by a student from our Hifdh-Ul-Qur’an Academy, setting a reflective atmosphere. Mufti Aasim Rashid then delivered a compelling lecture on the life of Abu Bakr (ra), highlighting his exemplary character and unwavering devotion. The lecture emphasized Abu Bakr’s profound role as both a follower and leader, underscoring his integrity, truthfulness (Siddiq), and selfless sacrifices, particularly his immediate acceptance of Islam, his protection of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and his pivotal role during the Hijra. Key lessons included the importance of righteous role models, unwavering faith, and the impact of loyalty and sacrifice. Following the enriching lecture, attendees enjoyed a vibrant potluck dinner, fostering a strong sense of community. Over 70 individuals participated, contributing a diverse array of culinary delights, including various cuisines and pizza. This communal meal provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and connection, further strengthening the bonds within the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier.

Ramadan Care Packages (Packing & Distribution)

Ramadan Care Packages (Packing & Distribution) Ramadan Care Packages (Packing & Distribution) Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025 Time: 6 PM Cost: None Type: Cuture Night Audience: Everyone Food: Free Kurdish Dinner Provided 🌙✨ Ramadan Care Packages: Volunteer and Make a Difference! ✨🌙 This Ramadan, the Islamic Organization of Southern Tier (IOST) is calling on our community to help assemble and distribute Ramadan Care Packages for those in need. This is an incredible opportunity to give back, foster compassion, and make an impact in someone’s Ramadan. Volunteers (especially high schoolers) are at the heart of this effort, but everyone is welcome to participate! Event Details 📦 Packing NightDate: Thursday, February 27, 2025Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PMLocation: Islamic Organization of Southern Tier (IOST)Volunteers Needed: While high schoolers are strongly encouraged to join, everyone is welcome. No registration required—just show up ready to lend a hand! 🤲 Care Package GiveawayDate: Friday, February 28, 2025Time: After Jumuah PrayersEligibility to Receive Care Packages: Open to all in need—no registration required. What’s Included in the Care Packages?These packages include essential items like dates, rice, flour, beans, pasta, fruits, vegetables, cooking oil, lentils, and more. Why Volunteer?🌟 Be Part of Something Bigger: Help spread the joy and blessings of Ramadan to those in need.🌟 Earn Community Service Hours: High school students can receive credit for their efforts.🌟 Connect Through Giving: Strengthen your connection with the community while doing acts of kindness. 🌐 Visit: www.iost.org/ramadan-2025 Join us as we work hand-in-hand to spread love, generosity, and blessings during this holy month. Together, let’s make a difference! #RamadanCarePackages #IOSTCommunity #Ramadan2025 #GiveBack Summary This Ramadan, the Islamic Organization of Southern Tier (IOST) is inviting the community to take part in assembling and distributing Ramadan Care Packages for those in need. Taking place over two days, this initiative offers a meaningful opportunity to give back, foster compassion, and make a direct impact. Volunteers—especially high school students—are encouraged to join Packing Night on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at IOST, where essential items like dates, rice, flour, beans, and cooking oil will be packed for distribution. On Friday, February 28, 2025, following Jumuah prayers, the Care Package Giveaway will ensure that those in need receive these much-needed supplies, with no registration required. High school students can earn community service hours while strengthening their connection with the community through this act of kindness. Open to all, this event is a chance to work together in spreading generosity and blessings during the holy month. Join us in making a difference!

Decorate the Masjid For Ramadan

Decorate the Masjid For Ramadan Decorate the Masjid For Ramadan Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025 Time: 6 PM Cost: None Type: Cuture Night Audience: Everyone Food: Free Kurdish Dinner Provided 📢 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝗷𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗻❗🌙✨ As the blessed month of Ramadan 2025 (1446 AH) approaches, we’re calling on our youth to lead the way in beautifying our masjid! This is a special opportunity for middle and high school students to take ownership in preparing our spiritual home for this blessed month. 🗓 Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025 ⏰ Time: 6 PM – 8 PM (After Maghrib Prayers)📍 Location: Islamic Organization of Southern Tier (IOST) Who Should Attend?🎯 Primary Volunteers Needed: High School Students👥 Also Welcome: Adults who wish to assist and supervise Important Check-in Information:⚠️ 𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬: All volunteers must sign in with Imam Anas upon arrival📝 This is required for both students and adults✅ Community service hours will be verified during sign-in What We’ll Be Doing:• Setting up Ramadan decorations• Arranging festive lights• Creating welcoming spaces• Working together as a community Benefits for Students:📚 Earn community service hours🤝 Leadership experience🕌 Contribute to your religious community👥 Meet other Muslim youth No Pre-registration Required!Simply arrive at 6 PM and:1. Sign in with Imam Anas2. Get your assignment3. Join the decorating team! Let’s give our youth the opportunity to shine as they help prepare our masjid for this blessed month! Parents are encouraged to support their children’s participation in this meaningful community service opportunity. 🌙 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆 – 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝗷𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗻❗ Summary As Ramadan 2025 (1446 AH) approaches, the Islamic Organization of Southern Tier (IOST) is inviting high school students to take the lead in decorating the masjid for this blessed month. This initiative provides young volunteers with a chance to contribute to their religious community while gaining leadership experience and earning community service hours. Adults are also welcome to assist and supervise. The event will take place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 6 PM to 8 PM, following Maghrib prayers, at IOST. Volunteers will help set up Ramadan decorations, arrange festive lights, and create welcoming spaces to enhance the masjid’s atmosphere. All participants must sign in with Imam Anas upon arrival, as sign-in is mandatory for both students and adults and required for verifying community service hours. No pre-registration is needed—volunteers can simply arrive at 6 PM, sign in, receive their assignment, and join the decorating efforts. Parents are encouraged to support their children in this meaningful opportunity to prepare the masjid for Ramadan while fostering a sense of community and unity among Muslim youth. Following the enriching lecture, attendees enjoyed a vibrant potluck dinner, fostering a strong sense of community. Over 70 individuals participated, contributing a diverse array of culinary delights, including various cuisines and pizza. This communal meal provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and connection, further strengthening the bonds within the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier.

Ramadan Fair

Ramadan Fair Ramadan Fair Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM Cost: None Type: Cuture Night Audience: Everyone Food: Free Kurdish Dinner Provided 🌙✨ 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐔𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫 ✨🌙 Get ready for an enriching and exciting evening at the 𝐑𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫 hosted by The Crescent Academy (TCA) and the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier (IOST)! There will be games, activities, displays, food, and more. 🗓 Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM📍 Location: IOST Masjid Come and experience the spirit of Ramadan with:🎉 Children’s Activities – Fun and engaging activities for the little ones!📱 Interactive Displays – Learn, explore, and enjoy!🍴 Food & Shopping – Delicious treats and unique finds from local vendors.🌍 Cultural Displays – Discover the beauty and diversity of Ramadan traditions. This is a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to come together, connect, and celebrate Ramadan. 🌟 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝❗We are in need of vendors to sell Ramadan decorations, supplies, food, and more. If you’d like to participate, contact Imam Anas for more details. Ramadan Details Here:🌐 www.iost.org/ramadan-2025 We can’t wait to see you there! 🕌💕 Summary Join us for an enriching and festive evening at the Ramadan Fair, hosted by The Crescent Academy (TCA) and the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier (IOST) on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM at IOST Masjid. This family-friendly event will feature exciting children’s activities, interactive displays, cultural showcases, and a vibrant selection of food and shopping from local vendors. A perfect opportunity to embrace the spirit of Ramadan, connect with the community, and celebrate together. Vendors and volunteers are welcome to participate in making this event truly special. Don’t miss out on this wonderful experience—we look forward to seeing you there! 🌙✨

Fasting Effect

Ramadan Family Night: The Fasting Effect Ramadan Family Night: The Fasting Effect Date: Friday, February 21, 2025 Time: 6 PM Cost: None Type: Cuture Night Audience: Everyone Food: Free Kurdish Dinner Provided 📢 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗢𝗦𝗧: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 – 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 🕌 Join us for an enlightening evening at the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier (IOST) as we uncover “Fasting Effect: The Science of Fasting” and explore how this spiritual practice benefits the body, mind, and soul! 🌙 🕒 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀:📅 Date: Friday, February 21, 2025 ⏰ Time: 6:0 PM – 7:30 PM 📍 Location: Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier (IOST) 🍽 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗗𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗲𝘀❗ ✨ 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿:We are honored to welcome 𝗗𝗿. 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗮, Professor of Nutrition at Binghamton University, who brings years of extensive research and expertise in the field of nutrition and fasting. Her groundbreaking research and deep understanding of the physiological impacts of fasting make her uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between scientific evidence and spiritual practice. 📚 What’s in Store:– An evidence-based presentation on the scientific benefits of fasting– Insights into cutting-edge research on fasting’s effects on health and wellness– Practical tips for healthy and effective fasting– Interactive Fun for All Ages: Featuring Kahoot trivia challenges and games for children to engage the whole family– Complimentary Dinner: Enjoy a delicious catered meal with our community 🌟 This is a FREE event open to everyone! Whether you’re fasting for spiritual, health, or community reasons, come learn how fasting can revitalize your life. Open to all ages – bring your family and friends! Summary The Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier (IOST) invites the community to a special Family Night event, “The Fasting Effect: The Science of Fasting”. Taking place on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 6 PM to 7:30 PM, this enlightening session will explore the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of fasting. Renowned nutrition expert, Dr. Lina Marhaba, Professor of Nutrition at Binghamton University, will deliver an evidence-based presentation highlighting the scientific impact of fasting on health and wellness. Attendees will gain valuable insights into cutting-edge research, practical fasting tips, and the connection between faith and science. The evening will also feature engaging Kahoot trivia challenges and interactive games for children, making it a fun learning experience for all ages. As an added treat, a complimentary catered dinner will be provided to all attendees. Open to everyone, this free event offers a wonderful opportunity to deepen understanding of fasting while enjoying quality time with family and friends in a welcoming community setting. Following the enriching lecture, attendees enjoyed a vibrant potluck dinner, fostering a strong sense of community. Over 70 individuals participated, contributing a diverse array of culinary delights, including various cuisines and pizza. This communal meal provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and connection, further strengthening the bonds within the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier.

Welcome Oh Ramadan – Potluck Dinner Program

Welcome Oh Ramadan – Potluck Dinner Program Welcome Oh Ramadan – Potluck Dinner Program Date: Friday, February 14, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM Cost: None Type: Cuture Night Audience: Everyone Food: Free Kurdish Dinner Provided 🌙 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗢𝗵 𝗥𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗻❗ 🌙 Join us for a evening at IOST as we prepare to embrace the holy month of Ramadan! We invite everyone in our community to come together for an evening filled with inspiration, connection, and food! 🗓️ Date: Friday, February 14, 2025🕒 Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM (after Maghrib prayer – NOT After Isha Prayers)📍 Location: Islamic Organization of Southern Tier (IOST) Our special guest speaker, Shaykh Tofail Nouruddin, will guide us through a session on how to set meaningful goals for this blessed month. Whether you’re hoping to strengthen your faith, improve your prayers, or enhance your acts of kindness, Shaykh Tofail’s insights will help you get ready to make the most out of Ramadan. 🍽️ 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗹𝘂𝗰𝗸 𝗗𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿: After the talk, enjoy a community potluck dinner! Bring your favorite dish to share with others. This is a perfect opportunity to bond over food and fellowship! 🎉 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀: We believe family time is essential, which is why we have organized games and fun activities for the little ones! 🎈🎲 They’ll have a great time while you connect with fellow community members. This event is a opportunity to re-center on your spiritual goals and share the joy of Ramadan with your loved ones. Don’t miss out on this evening of connection, reflection, and community spirit! Summary Join us on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at IOST for Welcome Oh Ramadan!—an evening dedicated to preparing for the holy month with inspiration, connection, and community bonding. Special guest Shaykh Tofail Nouruddin will lead a session on setting meaningful Ramadan goals, offering insights on strengthening faith, improving prayers, and enhancing acts of kindness. After the talk, attendees can enjoy a community potluck dinner, bringing their favorite dish to share. Families are encouraged to participate, with games and fun activities for children ensuring an engaging experience for all. This gathering is a perfect opportunity to reflect, reconnect, and embrace the spirit of Ramadan together. Don’t miss this uplifting event! 🌙✨

Mini Dawah Workshop

Mini Dawah Workshop at IOST Date: Friday, January 31, 2025 Time: 7 PM to 9 PM Cost: None Type: Dinner & Lecture Audience: Everyone Food: Potluck Based. 📖 Mini Dawah Workshop at IOST We invite you to join us on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 7 PM to 9 PM for a highly beneficial Mini Dawah Workshop at IOST. This essential session will be led by Shaykh Umair Siddiqui, focusing on equipping participants with effective methods for sharing the beautiful message of Islam. During the workshop, you will: Learn practical insights into the noble practice of Dawah. Discover how to convey the message of Islam clearly and effectively. To enhance your experience, the Qahwah House cart will be on-site, providing coffee for all attendees. Following the workshop, we will share in a communal potluck dinner, and we kindly request all attendees to bring a dish to share with others. We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of learning and community! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dv3TxhH5XOQ Summary On Friday, January 31, 2025, IOST successfully hosted a Mini Dawah Workshop from 7 PM to 9 PM. The session was led by Shaykh Umair Siddiqui, who traveled from New York/Long Island for the event. The workshop provided valuable insights into effective methods of sharing the message of Islam, with a particular focus on the importance of good character as the best form of Dawah. The event saw an attendance of 100 members, who actively participated in enhancing their ability to communicate Dawah clearly and impactfully. Attendees enjoyed free coffee from the Qahwah House cart throughout the evening. Following the workshop, a community potluck dinner fostered connection and camaraderie, bringing the gathering to a meaningful close in a welcoming environment.

Kurdish Night at IOST

Understanding Kurdistan: Kurdish Night at IOST Date: Friday, January 24, 2025 Time: 7 PM to 9 PM Cost: None Type: Cuture Night Audience: Everyone Food: Free Kurdish Dinner Provided Introducing Kurdish Night at IOST 📖  Join us on Friday, January 24, 2025, from 7 PM to 9 PM, for Kurdish Night at IOST. Learn about the Kurdish fight for freedom. We will go over the vibrant Kurdish culture, and the history of Kurdish people in our community! Presenters:Sister Maria MustafaSister Bizhyan ZebariBrother Avras TahaBrother Ridwan ZebariFew Children will also showcase and present about the culture! Everyone is welcome to join. A Kurdish dinner will be served at 9 PM after the presentations & discussions. Bring your family and friends to participate in this event. We looking forward to seeing you there! Summary On Friday, January 24, 2025, the IOST hosted a special “Kurdish Night,” dedicated to exploring the rich culture, history, and struggle for freedom of the Kurdish people. The event featured engaging presentations, including Sister Maria Mustafa’s insights into the origins of the Kurdish people, and Brother Ridwan Zebari’s discussion of famous Kurdish figures such as Salahuddin Ayubi. Sister Bizhyan Zebari and Brother Avras Taha also contributed valuable perspectives, alongside insightful showcases from children within the community. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of Kurdish heritage and its impact on society. The evening was a resounding success, drawing over 250 attendees who joined in celebration and learning. Following the discussions, a delicious Kurdish dinner was served, with over 50 dishes brought by the generous Kurdish community, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for continued conversation. The event provided a meaningful experience for families and friends to celebrate and learn together.

Caliphs and Conquests: Chronicles of Islamic Leadership

Caliphs & Conquests: Chronicles of Islamic Leadership Date: Friday, January 10, 2025 Time: 7 PM to 9:30 PM Cost: None Type: Family Night Audience: B𝗼𝘆𝘀, G𝗶𝗿𝗹𝘀, M𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 F𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 Food: Bring a dish to share Join us for an inspiring evening as we delve into the life and legacy of Abu Bakr (RA), the first Caliph of Islam. This event, part of the “Caliphs & Conquests: Chronicles of Islamic Leadership” series, will explore the remarkable leadership, unwavering faith, and significant contributions of Abu Bakr (RA) during a pivotal period in Islamic history. In this lecture, Mufti Aasim Rashid will illuminate: The pivotal role Abu Bakr (RA) played in the early days of Islam.His exemplary leadership during the Ridda Wars, preserving the unity of the Muslim community.His profound love and dedication to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).Lessons from his life that remain relevant for Muslims today.This is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Islamic history, draw inspiration from the lives of our great leaders, and connect with the local Muslim community. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww1mZ91j0zw Summary On Friday, January 10, 2025, from 7 PM to 9 PM, the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier had the privilege of hosting Mufti Aasim Rashid from Detroit for an insightful lecture at our masjid. The program commenced with a beautiful Qur’an recitation by a student from our Hifdh-Ul-Qur’an Academy, setting a reflective atmosphere. Mufti Aasim Rashid then delivered a compelling lecture on the life of Abu Bakr (ra), highlighting his exemplary character and unwavering devotion. The lecture emphasized Abu Bakr’s profound role as both a follower and leader, underscoring his integrity, truthfulness (Siddiq), and selfless sacrifices, particularly his immediate acceptance of Islam, his protection of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and his pivotal role during the Hijra. Key lessons included the importance of righteous role models, unwavering faith, and the impact of loyalty and sacrifice. Following the enriching lecture, attendees enjoyed a vibrant potluck dinner, fostering a strong sense of community. Over 70 individuals participated, contributing a diverse array of culinary delights, including various cuisines and pizza. This communal meal provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and connection, further strengthening the bonds within the Islamic Organization of the Southern Tier.