About Us
Islamic Center of Naperville – A Historical Perspective The Islamic Center Of Naperville (ICN) was formed in 1991 as a non-profit organization under the laws of the State of Illinois, for the specific purpose of serving the religious and cultural needs of the Muslims living and /or working in the Naperville area and its surrounding cities and towns.
The actual roots of ICN, however go back farther than 1991. In 1970-80 a group of far-sighted Muslims established the Naperville Islamic School as an affiliate of the Muslim Community Center (MCC) in Chicago. The “weekend” school was held on Friday nights to save money. The classes met first at Naperville North High School and then at Woodridge School on Hobson Road in Lisle.
By 1983, the group had raised $15,000 for the purpose of acquiring a building for a Masjid but postponed their plans when the Islamic Foundation bought an old school building in Villa Park. In 1984, some members of this group, with the help of other brothers, formed the Qur’anic study Club at Bell Laboratories, a prominent area employer of high quality personnel. (Most Muslims joining Bell Laboratories chose to live in Naperville and its surrounding cities and towns). Regular Jumu’ah prayers in the area were started at Bell Laboratories at this time. At the same time Jumu’ah was being established at Bell Laboratories, some brothers started gathering in their homes for regular Isha’ prayers. Also Salaatul Taraweeh was being held regularly at homes of the community members.
By the late eighties, it was becoming evident that the need for a physical structure could not wait any longer. In the early 1990’s, a building on Olesen Drive, formerly owned by religious group, was purchased to establish the Islamic Center of Naperville. The rapid growth of Muslim Community in this area is dramatically evident during Ramadan, and the two Eid Prayers, when we are regularly forced to seek larger quarters elsewhere to accommodate the increasing numbers. Also, in recent years, we have started to have two sessions for Jumu’ah prayers and still, at most Fridays, our current facility is filled to capacity in at least one of the two sessions.
MISSION
The goal of the Islamic Center of Naperville is to grow into a Masjid-centric community which puts all its resources, hard work and hopes into the obedience of Allah, the Creator, the Provider, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. with a focus on:
Raising Muslim generations following the Qur’an and Sunnah as presented by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and exercised by the companions, Providing a safe and secure home and extended family environment for all ages (Muslim and interested non-Muslim).
VISION
Our vision is that the ICN centers will provide a second home and extended family environment to all ages (especially for the youngsters), and help build a vibrant community through religious services and education, youth programs, charitable work, children’s education through our Full-Time School and Weekend Schools, and promoting communal harmony through interfaith activities.