Community & unityFrom the masjid's own video, May 23, 2026.

Do not withdraw from your community

“We will not be afraid or intimidated.”

The khateeb, at 20:33

In one sentence

In the wake of a mosque shooting, the khutbah honors three men who died protecting others and urges Muslims to remain courageous, connected to the masjid and wider community, and committed to lawful, ethical safety and service.

The khutbah in 5 steps

  1. Honors Abul Izz, Amin, and Nadir, emphasizing their service, sacrifice, and protection of the mosque and community.
  2. Describes their deaths and interprets widespread prayers and janazah attendance as signs of their sincere relationship with Allah.
  3. Urges Muslims not to be intimidated or withdraw from mosques, schools, or community life after the shooting.
  4. Calls listeners to engage neighbors and non-Muslim supporters, demonstrate Islam through good conduct, and rely on iman.
  5. Announces security measures, Eid plans, school registration, support opportunities, and closes with prayers and Quran recitation.
Try this week
Continue attending the masjid and keep children connected to the mosque school.
Register children for the next school year and attend the announced Eid prayers.
Greet and thank non-Muslim supporters and build relationships with non-Muslim colleagues, friends, and neighbors.
Follow lawful and ethical security measures and cooperate with police and trained volunteers.
Support the masjid financially and consider giving udhiyah through Islamic Relief.
Sources the khateeb cited
Quran 3:139-141Recited verses about not weakening or grieving, enduring hardship, and Allah distinguishing believers and martyrs.
Quran 94:1-8Recited the surah's reassurance that hardship is accompanied by ease and that believers should turn to their Lord.
Surah 1Recited during the prayer.
Quotes

In the khateeb's words

“Stay in the house of Allah. Stay with your community. Which is my next message.”
ICSD, East County · El Cajon, CA
Play from 19:26
“And we will not be afraid or intimidated. We are an essential part of this community. And this society.”
ICSD, East County · El Cajon, CA
Play from 20:33
“We'll do everything legal and possible. And ethical. To stand for truth. And to protect ourselves as Muslims.”
ICSD, East County · El Cajon, CA
Play from 22:53
Talk about it at home

For the dinner table

This khutbah remembers Abu al-Izz, Amin, and Nadir, three men who died while protecting people at their mosque during a shooting. The speaker honors their service and says their example should remind us to live faithfully and serve others. He asks Muslims not to let fear pull them away from the mosque, school, or community, while also taking lawful and ethical steps for safety. He encourages good relationships with neighbors and non-Muslims, especially those who offered support. The message closes with prayers for the men, their families, and the safety and strength of the whole community.

  1. What is one way our family can stay connected to our mosque and community?
  2. How can we thank or support neighbors who care about us?
  3. What does being brave and peaceful at the same time look like?