Civic engagementFrom the masjid's own video, Apr 11, 2026.

Build strong communities and engage in civic life

“We want strong individuals, but we also want a strong community.”

The khateeb, at 19:05

In one sentence

American Muslims should combine taqwa with financial and communal self-sufficiency, constructive alliances, and civic engagement to advance good and resist harm for everyone's benefit.

The khutbah in 6 steps

  1. Opens with reminders about taqwa, truthful speech, obedience, and success.
  2. Reflects on the recent America-Iran conflict and draws lessons about strategy and self-defense.
  3. Defines Muslim excellence through enjoining good, resisting evil, and faith in Allah.
  4. Calls for financially strong individuals, community service, self-sufficiency, and broader alliances.
  5. Urges serious civic participation in the upcoming midterm elections.
  6. Concludes by emphasizing tawakkul, responsibility, prayer, and community reminders.
Try this week
Build financial stability while strengthening faith.
Dedicate part of your time to serving the Muslim community.
Build relationships and strategic alliances with other communities.
Participate seriously in upcoming midterm elections and evaluate candidates' independence from corporate, PAC, and lobby money.
Use your skills to oppose senseless wars and harmful foreign-policy influence.
Cover or turn inside out clothing depicting people or animals during salah.
Sources the khateeb cited
Quran 4:1Used to introduce taqwa, human unity, and maintaining family ties.
Quran 33:70-71Used to connect God-consciousness and truthful speech with corrected affairs and forgiveness.
Quran 3:110Used to define Muslim excellence through promoting good, resisting evil, and believing in Allah.
Quran 8:61-62Used to teach negotiation, trust in Allah, and confidence in divine support.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“We want Muslims to be wealthy in Iman, as well as wealthy in their pockets.”
OCIF · Mission Viejo, CA
Play from 16:20
“So we want strong individuals, but we also want a strong community.”
OCIF · Mission Viejo, CA
Play from 19:05
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

Sheikh Tarik reminded us that taqwa means remembering Allah as we make our daily choices. He explained that being a good Muslim involves encouraging good, pushing back against harm, and believing in Allah. He encouraged us to pursue our personal goals while also giving some of our time and abilities to serving the community. He reminded us to build relationships beyond our own community and work for the well-being of others. Throughout these efforts, we should trust Allah, remembering that our responsibility is to act and that the results come from Him.

  1. What is one way you could encourage something good at school or at home this week?
  2. What skill or interest could you share to help our neighbors?
  3. When something feels difficult to change, what small step could you take while trusting Allah?