Visit us
Visiting the centre
Everyone is welcome: regulars, newcomers to the peninsula, people exploring Islam, and neighbours who simply want to see what happens on a Friday. Here is what to expect.
Where
The Aperture Building is part of the peninsula's residential estate near The O2. The community space is on the ground floor; volunteers in blue vests are at the door on Fridays. Parking on the estate is limited and controlled; coming by Tube, bus or bike is simplest.
A Friday, step by step
- Arrive early.From 12:45 for the first session. When the hall reaches capacity the doors close and arrivals wait in the library area for the second session at 13:30.
- Shoes off at the racks.Inside the entrance. Dress modestly; coats and bags stay with you.
- Find your section.Men's and women's sections are divided by a screen. Chairs are set out for anyone who cannot stand, bow or prostrate; ask a volunteer.
- The khutbah, then the prayer.The sermon is in English and lasts about twenty minutes; the prayer a few minutes more. Phones silent, please.
- Afterwards.The space is cleared for the next session or handed back to the building, so goodbyes are quick. The donation terminal is by the door if you wish to give; no one will ask.
If you are not Muslim
You are welcome to watch respectfully from the back of either section, and a volunteer will gladly explain the prayer and answer questions afterwards. There is nothing you need to do or say. Schools, neighbours' groups and other congregations can arrange a visit or a talk by e-mail at [email protected].
Accessibility
The community space is on the ground floor. A chaired area is kept for people who need it, and volunteers are briefed to offer help and to ask how best to give it rather than assume. If you have a need we should prepare for, tell us the day before by e-mail or on the Signal group.
Keep in touch
Changes to times, the room and the programme are announced first on the community Signal group. Questions: contact us.