37:46 Our dawah is one of…42:34 We are sent here to be…
Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Apr 25, 2026.

Answer fear with service and civic good

ISOC · Abdullah Misra

“We are sent here to be a light to this entire nation.”

The khateeb, at 42:34

Watch the khutbahFamily kit
In one sentence

Muslim communities should answer Islamophobic fearmongering not with isolation or hatred, but through service, positive civic engagement, alliances, and confident trust in Allah.

The khutbah in 5 steps

  1. Defends ISOC against a sensationalized portrayal of its expansion as a threat.
  2. Shows ISOC's public benefit through aid, refuge, youth guidance, reconciliation, and community service.
  3. Connects modern Islamophobic fearmongering to the Quranic demonization of Musa and the believers.
  4. Calls Muslims to respond to ignorance with service, alliances, confident communication, and continued good works.
  5. Urges ISOC to welcome critics and neighbors while becoming a light for the entire nation.
Try this week
Respond to hostility with service, charity, and positive community work rather than isolation.
Continue welcoming vulnerable people with food, water, shade, peace, reconciliation, and practical support.
Build and maintain alliances with Muslim, non-Muslim, civic, and local government partners.
Welcome curious or critical neighbors for conversation, shared food, coffee, and honest questions.
Keep benefiting the wider society rather than serving only the Muslim community's internal needs.
Sources the khateeb cited
Surah 5The opening verse about cooperating in righteousness frames the community's purpose.
Surah 20The claims of Pharaoh's people are used as an example of fearmongering and portraying believers as threats.
Surah 41The Quranic instruction to respond with what is more beautiful supports answering hatred through exemplary conduct.
Surah 41The account of opponents trying to drown out the Quran illustrates efforts to prevent its message from being heard.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“Our dawah is one of service. Our dawah is one of positive work.”
ISOC · Garden Grove, CA
Play from 37:46
“We are sent here to be a light to this entire nation.”
ISOC · Garden Grove, CA
Play from 42:34
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Shaykh Abdullah Misra spoke about a hostile post that portrayed ISOC’s growth and services as something to fear. He reminded the community of the good happening there, including groceries for hungry families, a peaceful place for people in distress, and support for young people. He encouraged Muslims to keep serving others, trust Allah, and respond to hate with a higher example. He also highlighted the importance of friendships with neighbors and community groups. His message was that we can be a light to others through kindness, helpful actions, and a sincere welcome.

  1. Who around us could use some help this week, and what could we do together?
  2. How could we help someone new feel welcome at our masjid?
  3. What helps you respond kindly and confidently when someone misunderstands you?
Where it was given

The masjid

Islamic Society of Orange County1 Al-Rahman Plaza, Garden Grove, CA 92844Jumu'ah 1:00 PM & 2:20 PMKhateebAbdullah MisraMore khutbahsArchiveAll khutbahs at ISOC41 khutbahs
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