Page 25 - Real Rochdale Issue 23 August 2024
P. 25

Inside Rochdale’s oldest mosque











 The Golden Mosque has been a cornerstone of the local   The community’s increasing needs led to the construction   The Golden Mosque is not just a place of worship; it is a thriving
 community since its establishment in 1963. Located on Lower   of a new, larger mosque building in 2010, funded entirely   centre for community engagement.
 Sheriff Street in Spotland, this historic institution was initially   by the local Muslim community.
 acquired by members of the local Muslim community, who came   The mosque offers a wide range of services, including counselling,
 together to create what is now Rochdale’s oldest mosque.  The community recognised the importance for   marriage services, funeral services, youth clubs, health and
 educating the next generation and nurturing them to   wellbeing sessions, and Islamic classes.
 Over the years, the mosque has evolved far beyond its original   become exceptional citizens of this country. The
 purpose, becoming a vital hub for education, social services, and   community came together once more to raise £1 million   This dedication to meeting the diverse needs of the community
 even community outreach.  for a new building.  has earned the mosque several accolades over the years,
                                        including the Rochdale Borough’s People’s Design Award for
 The mosque’s significance was recently underscored when it was   The new three-floor structure, capable of   the best-designed building in 2011. It was also selected as best
 honoured with the prestigious title of ‘Mosque of the Year’ at   accommodating over 1,000 worshippers, has allowed the   mosque by Royal Horticultural Society’s North West In Bloom
 the British Muslim Awards. This accolade recognises the Golden   mosque to expand its services and support more people   judges in 2023.
 Mosque’s outstanding contributions, not only to the local   than ever before.
 community but also to the broader Islamic world.  In addition, the mosque has been recognised nationally, winning
 Now on big occasions, such as Friday and Eid prayers, the   the Best Madrassah in the UK in 2020 and the Best Youth Service
 From its humble beginnings over six decades ago, the Golden   mosque welcomes over 1,000 attendees, reflecting its   Award in 2021.
 Mosque has grown exponentially.  central role in the lives of Rochdale’s Muslims.
                                        The mosque’s facilities are a testament to its importance within

















































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