Boys from Year 8, accompanied by Head of Religious Studies Miss Lizzy Morgan and Mr Tristan Elby, travelled to the Baitul Futuh Mosque in Morden; the largest mosque in Western Europe. Costing £15 million to build, the structure was entirely funded by donations. Pupils were incredibly impressed and curious about the simple white building, which stood so close to the railway line, and had mixed opinions on whether or not places of worship should be near noisy public transport areas.
Upon entering the place of worship, all shoes were removed and the pupils were shown the times of daily prayers. Here, the pupils were spoken to their well-informed female guide about what living as a Muslim entails. The conversation covered the beliefs and practises Muslims perform in their day to day life, from someone with first-hand experience. The call to prayer echoed through the building, being broadcast from the minaret. Pupils were given the opportunity to sit quietly at the back of the main prayer hall with Mr Elby to watch the midday prayers. Over 40 men came into the hall and prayed individually, before standing side by side behind the Imam to perform Salah together. Miss Morgan commented that ‘this was a fantastic and arguably once in a lifetime experience for them to witness.’
The group then headed down to the spacious women’s area, to participate in a question and answer session with the guide. She was knowledgeable and honest, and the Shiplake boys asked perceptive questions, showing an open-minded attitude. Many questions centred on current affairs and issues regarding ISIS. The group found it interesting and insightful to discuss issues that are so prevalent in today’s world with a practising Muslim, and the ways in which it has affected her. Further challenging questions considered the role of women in Islam, and how ‘strictly’ Islamic rules need to be followed, for example working during the time for prayer.
Before leaving, the group were given the chance to go into the crèche and test the noise-proof glass, which allows women to bring their children to mosque but not become distracted during prayers with the sound of children playing nearby. Needless to say, Year 8 definitely gave it a good test! Miss Morgan said of the trip that ‘the students behaved respectfully and very well. It was a superb opportunity to see a different culture and religious practise, and I remain impressed with the level of sincerity and understanding exhibited by the Shiplake boys.’
