Los Angeles Mosque burns, but community stays strong

In Altadena, California, a devastating wildfire destroyed Masjid Al-Taqwa, leaving its congregation without a place to pray.

The mosque was a pillar of the Muslim community for 42 years. 

The house of worship was reduced to ashes in January’s deadly Eaton Fire, which killed 17 people and scorched more than 14,000 acres, including thousands of homes.

Despite their grief, worshippers refuse to let the fire break their spirit.

With Ramadan approaching, about 20 mosque members and families, many now living in motels or with relatives, gathered at a local Islamic school.

It was their first communal prayer and meal since the tragedy.

Their volunteer imam, Junaid Aasi, brought much-needed hope.

Standing on plush blue prayer rugs, he announced the school would provide space for Ramadan prayers four nights a week.

Gasps of relief filled the room, followed by murmurs of “Alhamdulillah” – praise be to God.

For many, Masjid Al-Taqwa was more than a place of worship; it was home.

Founder Aaron Abdus-Shakoor lost his house, business, and properties.

Salah Eddine Benatia, a new Algerian immigrant, had just discovered the mosque

Medical student Mohammed AlDajani, who lost his condo, cherished the mosque’s multicultural community, where Arabs, African Americans, South Asians, and North Africans prayed together.

Even amid their loss, members vow to rebuild. 

Sakeenah Ali, whose children’s school also burned down, says they will remain united.

“The key is to keep showing up,” she says. “We will rebuild.”

Their mosque may be gone, but their faith and resilience remain unshaken.