Groundbreaking of the Zainabiya Center - St. Louis, Missouri

The St. Louis community broke ground on Saturday, February 4th, 2023, for the construction of a new Islamic Center. The ceremony, which coincided with the birth anniversary of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (p), came after having observed religious programs in a confined space for nearly two decades.

The new development was made possible thanks to the philanthropy of a handful of generous donors who secured and gifted 4.7 acres in Maryland Heights to the Anjuman-e-Ahle Bayt – Zainabiya Imambargah.

As the keynote speaker, Sayyid M.B. Kashmiri delivered a speech describing how a prophetic community can be built if we follow in the footsteps of the Holy Prophet (pbuh&hp). To become successful, Sayyid said, “We must ensure that everyone benefits from the center irrespective of color, gender, ethnicity, and so forth by making it a place of education and enlightenment of true Islamic knowledge.”

The administration then presented a detailed financial plan and timeframe for the project. Sayyid Kashmiri encouraged the community to use their blessing and generosity to make this project happen. He explained how to use Khums dues toward the project appropriately since the center earned permission from the religious authority.

By the grace of Almighty God, the administration announced that the pledges had reached the expectations.

Afterward, the community members and distinguished guests celebrated the ground-breaking and prayed for its success.