TITLE: Recognizing the Islamic Center of Lake Travis on the occasion of its one-year anniversary.

SUMMARY: Recognizing the Islamic Center of Lake Travis on the occasion of its one-year anniversary.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Islamic Center of Lake Travis on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of its opening following its rebuilding and the center's second Ramadan celebration; and WHEREAS, The Islamic Center of Lake Travis underwent a devastating fire in January of 2017 during its construction; after more than a year of rebuilding efforts, and with the strong support of the interfaith community, the mosque opened its doors in May of 2018 in time for its first Ramadan celebration, which included nightly prayers and community iftars, the traditional meal that breaks the daily fast; and WHEREAS, The mosque offers a range of convenient features to its congregation, including upstairs and downstairs prayer rooms, a nursery, washrooms, and a small basketball court; in addition to regular worship services, the center offers Sunday school classes for children and hosts a monthly lecture series, and its members participate in the Mobile Loaves and Fishes program; and WHEREAS, The Islamic Center of Lake Travis recently engaged its first Imam, Sheikh Mohamed-Umer Esmail; he is a traditionally trained scholar who has studied the Sciences of Shari'ah and received Ijazahs and studied under the tutelage of some of the world's leading Islamic scholars; and WHEREAS, The Islamic Center of Lake Travis has been an invaluable addition to the faith community in Central Texas, and it is truly fitting that it receive special recognition on this significant anniversary; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby commend the members of the Islamic Center of Lake Travis on their commitment and their determination in the face of adversity and extend to them best wishes for a memorable one-year anniversary celebration; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the mosque as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Watson President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 3, 2019.