Dedicating the Musala, a place for inclusion

St. Scholastica faculty, staff, students and Sisters came together to dedicate the College’s new Musala, Muslim Prayer Room, on Friday, Sept. 24.

Jessica Ellingson, director of Campus Ministry, said the project began over a year ago when members of the school’s Interfaith Advisory committee presented the proposal to College leaders. Up until that point, St. Scholastica community members did not have a designated place to pray.

Once the Prayer Room was approved, the committee worked closely with Dr. Sabah Alwan, professor in the Stender School of Business and Technology and the Facilities team to bring their vision to life. Ellingson and Campus Ministry associate director Mark Hakes researched and purchased the decor to create an inviting, sacred space.

During the dedication ceremony, Alwan emphasized the Musala is representative of the College and its diverse and inclusive identity.

“This is who we are,” he said. “This is a space that honors and celebrates our inclusion.”

Alwan also noted that while Muslims now have an on-campus place to participate in their five daily prayers, the Musala is open to everyone. “All are welcome to come and share a prayer with us. This room’s essence is its inclusiveness of all.”

The room is located on the first floor of Tower Hall, 1603, and has a cleansing station and curtain to separate men and women. Guests are asked to remove their shoes before entering the holy space. To access the Muslim Prayer Room, please contact Campus Ministry cministry@css.edu.